Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Zolmitriptan is employed for alleviating the symptoms associated with migraine headaches. These migraines are typically characterized by severe throbbing head pain, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and heightened sensitivity to sound and light. Zolmitriptan belongs to a category of drugs known as selective serotonin receptor agonists. Its mechanism of action involves the constriction of blood vessels in the vicinity of the brain, interrupting the transmission of pain signals to the brain, and inhibiting the release of specific natural substances responsible for pain, nausea, and other migraine symptoms.
Uses and Dosage
Zolmitriptan is available as a tablet and an orally disintegrating tablet (a tablet that dissolves quickly in the mouth) for oral administration. It’s typically taken at the onset of a migraine headache. If your symptoms improve but return after 2 hours or longer, a second tablet may be taken. However, if symptoms persist after taking zolmitriptan, refrain from taking a second tablet without consulting your doctor. Your doctor will specify the maximum number of tablets or orally disintegrating tablets you may take within a 24-hour period.
Take zolmitriptan precisely as directed, without altering the dosage or frequency unless advised by your doctor.
Your initial dose of zolmitriptan may be taken in a doctor’s office or another medical facility where you can be monitored for potential serious reactions.
If your doctor has prescribed a dose lower than 2.5 mg, you can use your fingers to break the 2.5-mg tablet along the scored line. Avoid breaking or splitting the orally disintegrating tablet.
To consume the orally disintegrating tablet, use dry hands to peel back the foil packaging. Place the tablet on your tongue immediately and allow it to dissolve rapidly, then swallow it with saliva. No water is required to swallow disintegrating tablets. Refrain from opening the foil packaging or removing the orally disintegrating tablet until just before consumption.
Contact your doctor if your headaches persist or become more frequent after taking zolmitriptan.
Using zolmitriptan more frequently or for a longer duration than recommended may exacerbate your headaches or lead to increased frequency. Avoid taking zolmitriptan or any other headache medication for more than 10 days per month. Inform your doctor if you require zolmitriptan to treat more than three headaches within a one-month period.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- feeling warm or cold
- drowsiness
- dry mouth
- nausea
- heartburn
- sweating
- dizziness or faintness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- pain, tightness, pressure, or heaviness in the chest, throat, neck, or jaw
- slow or difficult speech
- weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
- fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
- bloody diarrhea
- sudden or severe stomach pain
- paleness or blue color of the fingers and toes
- shortness of breath
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- hoarseness
- rash
- hives
- pain, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet
Caution
- Before using zolmitriptan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
- Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: blood circulation problems, certain types of headaches, heart problems, liver disease, seizure, stroke or “mini-stroke” (transient ischemic attack).
- Certain conditions can increase your risk for heart problems. Tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions, including: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, family history of heart disease, overweight, smoker, postmenopausal (women), age more than 40 years (men).
- This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely.
- The risk of heart disease, liver disease, and high blood pressure increases with age. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially increased blood pressure and heart problems.
- During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Form and Strength
Zomig Rapimelt is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Zomig Rapimelt orally-disintegrating tablet:
- 2.5 mg
- 5 mg
- zolmitriptan orally-disintegrating tablet:
- 2.5 mg
- 5 mg
FAQ
What does Zomig do to the brain?
Zomig works by narrowing blood vessels around the brain, stopping pain signals from being sent to the brain, and blocking
the release of certain natural substances that cause pain.
Does Zomig cause weight gain?
No, weight gain wasn’t a side effect reported in studies of Zomig.
Resources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/zomig-side-effects#:~:text=Does%20Zomig%20cause%20weight%20gain,sodium%20(Depakote%2C%20Depakote%20ER)
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/zomig-rapimelt
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/zolmitriptan-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20066780?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5400/zomig-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601129.html
- https://www.drugs.com/zomig.html
