Indications 

Imitrex DF is a prescribed medication for adults to promptly address migraine attacks, whether with or without aura. 

Imitrex DF exerts its effects as a selective serotonin receptor agonist by constricting blood vessels around the brain, intercepting pain signals to the brain, and inhibiting the release of particular natural substances responsible for migraine symptoms such as pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and others. 

Uses and Dosage 

Read the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet of Imitrex DF before taking it for the first time and with every prescription refill. Seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist if you have any queries or need additional information. 

The appropriate dosage of this medication is established based on individual medical conditions and the response to the treatment. 

Typically, Imitrex DF is taken at the first sign of migraine regardless of food intake. 

If migraine symptoms are partially relieved, or the headache recurs, a second dose can be taken at least two hours after the initial dose. Do not exceed 200 milligrams within 24 hours. 

If migraine symptoms persist without improvement after the first dose, refrain from taking additional doses without consulting your doctor. 

To achieve optimal outcomes, follow your doctor’s precise instructions when taking Imitrex DF. Avoid increasing the frequency or duration beyond the recommended period, as this may exacerbate or increase the occurrence of headaches. 

Refrain from using this medication or any other headache remedy for over 10 days within a month. Contact your doctor if you require Imitrex DF for treating more than four headaches within a month. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Flushing 
• Sensations of tingling, numbness, prickling, or heat 
• Fatigue 
• Weakness 
• Drowsiness 
• Dizziness 

If any of these common side effects last or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Bluish fingers, toes, or nails 
• Cold hands or feet 
• Changes in hearing 
• Mental or mood changes 

Notify your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects are experienced. 

Imitrex DF often induces chest, jaw, or neck discomfort, typically non-severe but resembling heart attack symptoms. Seek immediate medical assistance if experiencing these heart attack-like symptoms or other serious side effects like: 

• Rapid heartbeat 
• Fainting 
• Severe abdominal pain 
• Signs of a stroke such as: 
  •  Weakness on one side 
  • Speech difficulties 
  • Sudden vision changes 
  • Confusion 

Imitrex DF may elevate serotonin levels and, on rare occasions, lead to a severe condition known as serotonin syndrome or toxicity. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:  

• Rapid heart rate 
• Hallucinations 
• Loss of coordination 
• Pronounced dizziness 
• Severe nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Muscle twitches 
• Unexplained fever 
• Unusual restlessness 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare instances, Imitrex DF may cause a severe allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical aid if you experience signs of an allergic response, such as: 

• Hives 
• Swelling or itching of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Rash 
• Severe dizziness 

This list does not encompass all potential side effects; notify your doctor about any other side effects experienced while taking this medication. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Imitrex DF, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to sumatriptan or any of the ingredients in this tablet. 

Disclose your medical history with your doctor before taking Imitrex DF to assess its appropriateness for your condition, particularly if you have a history of: 

• Circulatory issues affecting legs, arms/hands, or stomach 
• Hemiplegic or basilar migraine 
• Heart conditions (e.g., chest pain, irregular heartbeat, prior heart attack) 
• Liver disease 
• Seizures 
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) 

Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to minimize the risk of drug interactions with Imitrex DF. 

Serotonin syndrome toxicity becomes more probable when Imitrex DF is used alongside other serotonin-enhancing drugs. The risk increases upon the commencement or elevation of these medications: 

• Street drugs like MDMA and ecstasy  
• St. John’s wort,  
• Specific antidepressants (fluoxetine, paroxetine, duloxetine, and venlafaxine) 

Avoid taking Imitrex DF if you are currently using or have used a monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) inhibitor, like isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate), within the past two weeks. 

To reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions, separate your Imitrex DF dosage from any ergotamine medication or other triptan drugs. Seek advice from your healthcare provider regarding the recommended interval between these medications. 

Imitrex DF might induce drowsiness or dizziness. Refrain from driving or operating machinery until you understand the impact of this medication on your body. 

Imitrex DF should only be taken during pregnancy if necessary. Consult your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits. 

Sumatriptan may transfer into breast milk. Refrain from breastfeeding for 12 hours after taking Imitrex DF, and discard any milk collected during this period; do not feed it to your child.