Rizatriptan 10mg Orodispersible Tablets

What is Rizatriptan and what is it used for?

The generic (unbranded name for Maxalt Wafers) Rizatriptan orodispersible tablets are prescribed to treat the headache stage which comes with migraines. A 5HT agonist, and containing rizatriptan, this medication helps reduce swelling in blood vessels, by working on the serotonin receptors in the brain.

Each box of Rixatriptan 10mg contains 6 orodisperible tablets that dissolve quickly on the tongue before swallowing, making them the ideal choice for those that are unable to or would rather not swallow large tablets.

What is a migraine?

It is still not known what brings on a migraine, though it could be that an increase of activity in chemicals in the brain gives confusing messages and many attacks occur for no reason, though some think they could be brought on by certain foods and drinks.

Migraines are a common complaint in The UK. The infliction tends to affect a greater number of women (25%) compared with men (8%). Migraines are thought to be at least partially hereditary, which means you may be more prone to the condition if someone in your close family suffers from the condition.

For those unfortunate sufferers who experience severe migraine attacks, these debilitating episodes can completely disrupt their day, potentially causing nausea, intolerance to strong light, noises and smell. If you are unsure whether your headaches are migraines, take a look at our useful guide detailing Migraine Warning Signs for more information.

Approximately one in every four people who suffer from migraines experiences some form of warning sign before an attack. This is known as an aura. An aura may involve visual cues, such as blurred or distorted vision. Maxalt Melt will provide relief whether or not the migraine is accompanied by an aura. A silent migraine occurs when the aura happens but a migraine does not follow.

Migraines can be triggered by a number of factors, including:

• a poor diet
• caffeine
• alcohol
• stress
• a lack of sleep
• Some women regularly suffer from migraine attacks during their monthly period.

For more information why not take a look at our insightful guide on Avoiding Migraine Triggers and Prevention.

Migraine episodes tend to last for a few hours but can, in more severe cases, continue for as long as three days. After a migraine has subsided, you may still feel fatigued for several subsequent days.

How does Rizatriptan work?

As a 5HT1-receptor agonist, this medication is also called triptan, which works by stimulating serotonin (or 5HT) in the brain. While rizatriptan relieves the headache of migraine, it does not stop the headache from starting. Rizatriptan should be taken just as the first feeling of pain presents itself. You should not take other triptans, such as Almotriptan or ergotamine (other migraine treatments) at the same time as taking rizatriptan.

Alternatives to Rizatriptan

Rizatriptan is not the only medication which can be used to prevent migraines. At The Independent Pharmacy we stock a range of prescription and over the counter treatment options. For more information please head over to out Advice for Migraines page.

When assessing your needs, your doctor may also prescribe a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkiller (e.g. naproxen) as well, if it is believed you will benefit from doing so.

Alternate OTC (over the counter) Medication for Migraines

There are some over the counter medications that can be used initially to try and combat migraine pain and nausea. Some of the products include;

• Paracetamol
• Ibuprofen
• Aspirin
• Migraleve

Sources

• Rizatriptan Tablets, Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/e...
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/...

How to take Rizatriptan

The best time to take rizatriptan is as soon as possible after your headache has begun. If taken any earlier, it may not stop the headache.

• Place 1 tablet on your tongue and allow it to dissolve completely.
• If the medicine is ineffective, wait at least 2 hours before taking a second dose.
• Do not exceed 2 tablets within a 24-hour period.

If you are currently taking propranolol or have kidney or liver problems you should use the 5mg dose of Rizatriptan. You should leave at least 2 hours between taking propranolol and Rizatriptan.

Rizatriptan warnings

Reading the following warnings carefully will help to ensure you are selecting an appropriate product.

Rizatriptan Tablets are unsuitable for you if:

• You are allergic to the active ingredient rizatriptan benzoate or any of the other ingredients in this medicine
• You have high blood pressure
• You have had a heart attack or stroke, or have shown any indicators of heart disease
• You have liver disease
• You have severe kidney problems
• You are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressants
• You are taking other 'triptan' medicines
• You are taking other migraine treatments (e.g. ergotamine or its derivatives, methysergide)

Before taking Rizatriptan, consult your GP if you:

• Are at high risk of heart disease (e.g. you smoke, have high blood pressure, are diabetic)
• Have had problems with your heart rhythm
• Take St. John's wort
• Have a history of severe allergic reactions
• Are taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressants
• Experience lack of coordination or dizziness alongside your headache
• Occasionally feel tightening of the chest

Please read all the packaging and Patient Information Leaflet before taking any new medicine.

Rizatriptan Ingredients

Rizatriptan tablets contain the active ingredient: Rizatriptan benzoate 10 mg.

Each tablet also contains the inactive ingredients: mannitol (E421), microcrystalline cellulose (E460a), crospovidone type A, aspartame (E951), magnesium stearate (E572), Colloidal Silicon Dioxide, peppermint flavour (containing natural flavouring substances and modified food starch E1450).

Rizatriptan side effects

Not everyone will experience side effects when they take Rizatriptan. However, if you do, they can include:

• dizziness
• tiredness
• tingling sensation
• further headache
• difficulty sleeping
• heart palpitations
• flushing
• sore throat
• nausea
• neck pain
• decreased sensitivity of the skin
• aches
• abdominal pain

If you are concerned about these effects, or if the product affects you in any other way, stop using it and talk to your doctor or pharmacist.