Information about Sandomigran (Pizotifen)
Sandomigran, containing the active ingredient pizotifen, is a medication primarily used for the prevention of migraines and certain types of headaches. It works as an antihistamine and serotonin antagonist, affecting neurotransmitters in the brain. Pizotifen helps to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines by preventing the blood vessels in the brain from constricting, which can be a contributing factor to migraine attacks.
Product Highlights
- Sandomigran is primarily used for the prevention of migraines, especially in patients who experience frequent or severe attacks.
- It is also indicated for the prevention of cluster headaches, a type of headache that occurs in cyclical patterns or clusters.
- In some cases, Sandomigran may be used off-label to manage other types of headaches, as determined by a healthcare provider.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- By preventing migraines, Sandomigran helps to improve quality of life for individuals who suffer from chronic or frequent migraines.
- It can be highly effective in preventing cluster headaches, which are known for their sudden, intense pain.
- Sandomigran is a preventive treatment, meaning it works to reduce the occurrence of future headaches rather than treating an active headache.
- Sandomigran can help individuals with chronic headache conditions, reducing the need for acute pain medications and improving overall well-being.
Direction of Use
- The usual starting dose is typically 1.5 mg to 3 mg per day, taken in divided doses, but the exact dosage may be adjusted based on the patient's response.
- Sandomigran should be taken orally, and it is usually recommended to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
- For some patients, the dose may be gradually increased to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
- Sandomigran can be taken with or without food.
- It is important to take the medication regularly as prescribed to prevent migraine attacks. It may take several weeks for the full preventive effects to be seen.
Safety Concerns
- One of the most common side effects of Sandomigran is drowsiness. Patients are advised not to engage in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until they understand how the medication affects them.
- Some patients may experience weight gain while on Sandomigran, which could be related to increased appetite.
- Sandomigran may cause dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision due to its anticholinergic properties.
- Some users report feeling generally tired or fatigued while taking this medication.
- Although uncommon, allergic reactions like rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing may occur.
- Sandomigran may cause changes in heart rate or blood pressure in some individuals, so monitoring may be required, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Avoid Sandomigran (Pizotifen) If
- Sandomigran should be avoided by individuals who are allergic to pizotifen or any other components of the medication.
- Individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma should avoid using Sandomigran due to its anticholinergic properties, which can increase intraocular pressure.
- Sandomigran is metabolized in the liver and excreted through the kidneys, so patients with severe liver or kidney disease should avoid this medication, or it should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
- The safety of Sandomigran during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well established. It is typically advised to avoid using Sandomigran during pregnancy, and it should only be used while breastfeeding if absolutely necessary, with close monitoring.
- Caution is advised for individuals with severe depression or other mental health disorders, as Sandomigran may have mood-altering effects in some people.
