What is Sumatriptan?

Sumatriptan is prescribed for acute migraine headaches in adults. It is not used to prevent migraine headaches and is not to be used for the relief of cluster headaches. It belongs to the group of medicines called triptan. Many individuals find their headaches go away completely after taking this medication. Others find that their headaches are less painful, allowing them to be able to go back to their normal daily activities even though a migraine headache is not completely gone. Sumatriptan relieves other symptoms that occur together with a migraine headache, such as vomiting, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound. Sumatriptan is not an ordinary pain reliever. It will not relieve pain other than from migraine headaches. This medication is typically prescribed for people whose headaches are not relieved by aspirin, acetaminophen, and other pain relievers.

How does Sumatriptan work?

Sumatriptan is a serotonin-1 receptor agonist which narrows the brain’s blood vessels providing relief from the swelling. It reduces the triggers which cause headaches, noise and light sensitivity, nausea and vomiting brought on by migraines. It is helpful in treating moderate to severe headaches. The drug is effective in relieving migraine symptoms. It works best at the onset of headaches leading to migraines. It still works even if it was taken after the headache has started, but the relief might take a while before taking effect.

What are the benefits of using Sumatriptan?

The main benefit of using sumatriptan is the relief it provides to an acute migraine headache. It is effective in reducing the substances in the body that triggers headache pain, sensitivity to noise or light, nausea, and vomiting.