Products
Sumatriptan is commercially available as film-coated tablets, nasal spray, injectable solution, and suppositories (Imigran, generics). It has been approved in many countries since 1993.
Structure and properties
Sumatriptan (C14H21N3O2S, Mr = 295.4 g/mol) is present in drugs as sumatriptan or in the form of the salt sumatriptan succinate. Sumatriptan succinate is a white powder that is readily soluble in water.
Effects
Sumatriptan (ATC N02CC01) has vasoconstrictive, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The effects are due to selective agonism at 5HT1 receptors.
Indications
Sumatriptan is approved for the treatment of migraine and a cluster headache.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Treatment is started at the first sign of migraine. If patients respond to the first dose, they should not use a second dose. The daily maximum doses must be observed.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common adverse effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, sensory disturbances, increase in blood pressure, flushing, respiratory disturbances, nausea, vomiting, heaviness, pain, sensation of heat, cold, pressure, tightness, weakness, and fatigue. Local side effects may occur with nasal or subcutaneous use. Cardiovascular disorders such as cardiac clots, ischemia, angina, and vasospasm are rare. Other very rare side effects such as visual disturbances may occur.
