7 triptans for migraine relief

Migraine is a neurological condition that can be debilitating and cause severe pain. While many treatments are available for migraine, triptan medications have become a popular option.

Triptans work by binding to the brain’s 5-HT1B/1D serotonin receptors, which control your mood and cognition. This causes the blood vessels to narrow and decreases inflammation, which helps to reduce nausea and other symptoms of a migraine attack.

Triptans are not available over the counter (OTC) in the United States and must be prescribed. Consider speaking with a healthcare professional to determine if it is the right treatment option for you.

There are several types of triptan medications, each with different benefits and potential side effects in treating and managing migraine. We list them here in no particular order.

1. Sumatriptan

Sumatriptan (Imitrex) aims to relieve migraine symptoms. The medication has a quick onset of action and can take effect in 30–60 minutes.

It is available in several forms, including:

• oral tablets
• nasal sprays
• injections

Sumatriptan injections can provide more rapid relief compared to other forms and can take effect in 10 minutes.

The dosage for oral tablets for adults ranges from 25–100 milligrams (mg), depending on the severity of the migraine attack. 

Common side effects of sumatriptan tablets include: 

• tingling or prickling sensations in the arms and legs
• vertigo
• chest pain
• tightness in the neck, throat, and jaw
• fatigue

Common side effects of sumatriptan injections include: 

• dizziness
• chest pain
• fatigue
• flushing
• tightness in the neck, throat, and jaw

Common side effects of sumatriptan nasal sprays include: 

• nausea
• vomiting
• throat discomfort
• vertigo
• burning sensation in the nose

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2. Rizatriptan

Rizatriptan (Maxalt) aims to relieve migraine and can help stop the release of natural substances that result in pain and nausea from migraine.

It is available in pill form and oral tablets that dissolve in the mouth. They can be helpful for those who have difficulty swallowing pills.

The recommended adult dosage for rizatriptan tablets ranges from 5–10 mg and should not exceed 30 mg in 24 hours.

Common side effects of rizatriptan include:

• dizziness
• fatigue 
• drowsiness

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3. Zolmitriptan

Zolmitriptan (Zomig) aims to relieve migraine symptoms such as pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Zolmitriptan is available in several forms, including:

• oral tablets
• nasal sprays
• dissolving tablets

The recommended adult dosage for oral tablets is 1.25–5 mg. However, a healthcare professional will help determine the best dosage for you.

Common side effects of zolmitriptan tablets include: 

• dizziness 
• nausea
• dry mouth
• warm or cold sensation in the body

Common side effects of zolmitriptan nasal spray include: 

• dizziness
• tingling or prickling sensations in the arms and legs
• increased sensitivity to stimulation

4. Naratriptan

Naratriptan (Amerge) can decrease inflammation in the brain and works to reduce the severity of migraine. 

It is available orally in tablet form, with a recommended dosage of 1 or 2.5 mg, depending on the severity of the migraine attack.

The medication also has an intermediate half-life of 6 hours compared to other triptans, which means it may provide relief for a longer period.

Common side effects of naratriptan include: 

• tingling or prickling sensations in the arms and legs
• dizziness 
• throat pain
• drowsiness 

5. Eletriptan

Eletriptan (Relpax) aims to treat migraine and reduce symptoms such as inflammation and nausea.

It is available orally in tablet form, with a recommended dosage of 20 or 40 mg in adults, depending on the severity of the migraine attack.

It has a quick onset of action and can often take effect within 30 minutes. It is also safe for both short- and long-term treatment.

Common side effects of eletriptan include:

• dizziness
• weakness
• nausea
• drowsiness

6. Almotriptan

Almotriptan (Axert) can be an effective and safe treatment option for managing acute migraine in teenagers and children. 

It is available in tablet form, with a recommended dosage of 6.25 or 12.5 mg in adults, depending on the severity of the migraine attack.

Common side effects of almotriptan for adults include: 

• dry mouth
• nausea
• burning or prickling sensation in the arms and legs

Common side effects of almotriptan for adolescents include: 

• dizziness
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting

7. Frovatriptan

Frovatriptan (Frova) can help treat migraine by reducing inflammation and pain. It is available in tablet form, with a recommended dosage of 2.5 mg in adults.

Frovatriptan has a half-life of 26 hours, which means it can provide relief for a more extended period.

Common side effects of frovatriptan include:

• flushing
• chest pain
• skeletal pain
• fatigue 
• dry mouth

When should you not take triptans? 

It is not advisable for some people to take triptans due to health conditions and medical history.

Some examples of these conditions include:

• high blood pressure
• a history of stroke, heart attack, or heart disease 
• severe kidney or liver disease 
• taking certain medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• pregnancy

You should speak with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment options for you when treating migraine.

Summary 

Triptans are a class of medications that can help alleviate migraine symptoms. These medications work by constricting blood vessels in the brain and reducing inflammation, two key factors in migraine pain.

Several triptan medications are available, each with different dosages and formulations. Some are available as tablets, while others are available as nasal sprays or injections.

Before taking triptans, consider discussing your medical history and any underlying health conditions with a healthcare professional. They can help determine if triptan medications are safe and appropriate for you.

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