Imitrex Nasal Spray (Sumatriptan)

Do’s

• Use Imitrex Spray only in your nose.
• Use it at the first sign of a migraine, as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Blow your nose gently before using the spray.
• Close one nostril while inserting the nozzle into the other. You can tilt your head back slightly for easier application.
• Inhale gently as you press the plunger to deliver the spray.
• Keep your head upright after use and breathe gently for 10-20 seconds.
• Repeat the dose after at least 2 hours (depending on the brand) if your migraine isn't relieved or comes back.

Don'ts

• Don't test or prime the spray before use. This wastes medication.
• Don't spray Imitrex into your eyes.
• Don't take more than the prescribed dose without talking to your healthcare provider.
• Don't use Imitrex if you have a high risk of heart problems without first consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't use Imitrex for more than 10 days per month. Regular overuse can worsen headaches.
• Don't use Imitrex if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects:

• Unusual taste or irritation/numbness/tingling of the nose or throat after using the spray
• Flushing
• Feelings of tingling/numbness/prickling/heat
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness

Serious Side Effects:

• Serious cardiovascular side effects such as myocardial infarction or stroke, which may occur without warning symptoms. Patients should be alert for signs and symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, significant rise in blood pressure, weakness, and slurring of speech and should seek medical advice if any indicative signs or symptoms are observed
• Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
• Hypertensive crises, on rare occasions in patients with or without a history of hypertension
• Allergic reactions, including red or bluish skin, slowed breathing, trouble moving or walking, inability to move, and enlarged pupils
• Uncommon but potentially serious side effects such as lactic acidosis, which can lead to serious medical emergencies and may include symptoms such as weakness, headache, stomach pain, and nausea

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Imitrex nasal spray,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Talk to your healthcare provider about any allergies, especially to sumatriptan or any inactive ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider of your medical history, particularly if you have:

• Blood circulation problems (legs, arms, hands, or stomach)
• Certain types of headaches (hemiplegic or basilar migraine)
• Heart problems (chest pain, irregular heartbeat, previous heart attack)
• Liver disease
• Seizures
• Stroke or "mini-stroke" (transient ischemic attack)

Certain conditions raise your risk for heart problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Family history of heart disease
• Overweight
• Smoker
• Postmenopausal (women)
• Age over 40 (men)

Imitrex Spray may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you feel safe.

Limit alcohol and marijuana use as they can worsen dizziness or drowsiness.

Disclose all medications you take (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal) to your healthcare provider before surgery.

The risk of heart disease, liver disease, and high blood pressure increases with age. Older adults may experience more side effects, especially high blood pressure and heart problems.

Imitrex Spray should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Imitrex Spray passes into breast milk in small amounts. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.