Rizatriptan 10mg

Price range: £7.90 through £16.99

Rizatriptan is a fast-acting prescription treatment for migraine attacks, offering symptom relief from headache, nausea, and light sensitivity.
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Description

Rizatriptan is a prescription treatment used to relieve acute migraine attacks, providing fast-acting symptom relief when taken at the onset of a migraine episode. It is suitable for adults who experience migraines with or without aura and is typically prescribed when over-the-counter pain relief is not effective. Rizatriptan does not prevent future migraines but targets the symptoms during an active attack.

How It Works

Rizatriptan belongs to a class of medicines known as triptans (5-HT1B/1D receptor agonists). It works by narrowing the widened blood vessels in the brain, which are believed to contribute to migraine pain. By restoring normal vascular tone and reducing neurogenic inflammation, Rizatriptan helps alleviate pain, reduce nausea, and minimise sensitivity to light and sound. Its targeted mechanism of action allows for fast and effective relief, with many patients reporting symptom improvement within one to two hours of taking the medicine.

Why Choose Rizatriptan

Rizatriptan is a reliable and fast-acting option for individuals who require prescription-strength relief from migraines. It is available in standard tablets as well as orodispersible forms, which dissolve on the tongue and are ideal for those who struggle with nausea or swallowing tablets. This makes it a versatile choice for migraine management. Unlike general painkillers, Rizatriptan directly targets the biological process of a migraine, helping to provide more complete symptom resolution. Used appropriately, it can reduce the need for multiple doses and shorten the duration of migraine episodes.

Important Note

Rizatriptan is for use only during a migraine attack and should not be taken as a preventive treatment. It should not be used within 24 hours of other triptan or ergotamine medications. If your migraine symptoms persist beyond two doses in 24 hours, or if you are using the medication frequently, seek medical advice to assess your overall treatment plan. Rizatriptan is not recommended for individuals with certain cardiovascular, hepatic, or renal conditions unless approved by a healthcare provider.

Directions

Please refer to the medication’s patient information leaflet before starting any new medication.

  • Take one Rizatriptan tablet (usually 10mg) at the onset of a migraine attack.

  • If symptoms return, a second tablet may be taken after at least 2 hours.

  • Do not exceed 20mg in 24 hours.

  • For orodispersible tablets, allow to dissolve on the tongue without water.

  • Do not take Rizatriptan to prevent migraines or for tension-type headaches.

Store below 25°C. Keep in the original packaging and out of reach of children.

Ingredients

  • Active Ingredient:

    • Rizatriptan benzoate equivalent to 10mg Rizatriptan base

    Other Ingredients:

    • Lactose monohydrate

    • Microcrystalline cellulose

    • Magnesium stearate

    • Additional excipients depending on formulation

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

  • Dizziness

  • Drowsiness

  • Dry mouth

  • Nausea

  • Fatigue

Serious (rare) side effects:

  • Chest pain or tightness

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Swelling of the face or throat

  • Severe allergic reaction

  • Visual disturbances

Stop the medicine and seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.

Warnings

    • Allergies: Do not take Rizatriptan if allergic to any of its ingredients.

    • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use only if advised by a doctor.

    • Medical Conditions: Not suitable for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, heart disease, or a history of stroke.

    • Age Restrictions: Not recommended for individuals under 18 or over 65 unless prescribed.

    • Drug Interactions: Avoid using with other triptans, ergotamine derivatives, or MAO inhibitors.

  • Yes. If symptoms return, a second dose may be taken after at least 2 hours. Do not exceed 2 doses (20mg) in 24 hours.
  • Rizatriptan 10mg orodispersible tablets typically start to relieve migraine symptoms within 30 minutes of use.
  • No. Rizatriptan is only effective for treating active migraine attacks, not for prevention.
  • No. It is not suitable for individuals with certain heart conditions, uncontrolled hypertension, or a history of stroke. Always consult a GP before use.
  • The orodispersible version dissolves on the tongue without the need for water, making it ideal for patients who experience nausea or vomiting with migraines.