GENERIC NAME: RIZATRIPTAN TABLET - ORAL (rizz-uh-TRIP-tan)

BRAND NAME(S): Maxalt

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat acute migraine attacks. This drug does not prevent future migraine attacks.

HOW TO USE: This drug is taken by mouth as directed for migraine attacks. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response. If no relief occurs after the first dose, consult your MD or pharmacist. Doses are generally separated by at least 2 hours. In the U.S.: do not exceed 30 mg in a 24 hour period. In Canada: according to the drug manufacturer, do not exceed 20 mg in a 24 hour period. If you have never taken this medication before and you have risk factors for heart disease (see Precautions), you may be advised to take the very first dose in your doctor's office in order to monitor for rare but serious heart problems (e.g., heart attack).

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, or headache may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: mental/mood changes, chest pain, neck/jaw discomfort. Very unlikely but report promptly: irregular or fast heartbeat, unusual weakness, vision changes, cold/tingling/numb hands or feet, stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, fainting or unsteadiness. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking rizatriptan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other "triptan" migraine drugs; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have risk factors for heart disease including: high cholesterol level, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking history, family history of heart disease or stroke, obesity. Caution is also recommended in women after menopause or after removal of the ovaries, and men over 40 years old because of an increased risk for undiagnosed heart disease. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: certain blood circulation disorders (e.g., Raynaud's syndrome), heart or blood vessel disease/stroke, kidney disease, liver disease, intestinal disease. Limit alcohol intake, as it may aggravate drug side effects. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving), as this drug may cause drowsiness or dizziness. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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