Eletriptan
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Serotonin-1b and Serotonin-1d Receptor Agonist
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Eletriptan
Summary
Eletriptan is used to treat acute migraine headaches in adults. It is not meant for preventing migraines or treating other types of headaches.
Eletriptan works by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain. This leads to the narrowing of blood vessels and stops pain signals. It also blocks the release of substances that cause migraine symptoms.
The usual dose for adults is 20 mg or 40 mg taken orally at the first sign of a migraine. If the migraine returns, a second dose can be taken at least 2 hours after the first but the maximum daily dose should not exceed 80 mg.
Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, weakness, and drowsiness. Serious adverse effects can include heart attack, stroke, and serotonin syndrome.
Eletriptan should not be used by patients with heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or a history of stroke. It should not be taken with other triptans or ergotamines within 24 hours. Patients with severe liver or kidney impairment should also avoid it.
Indications and Purpose
How does Eletriptan work?
Eletriptan works by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, which helps narrow blood vessels and block pain signals. It also inhibits the release of substances that cause inflammation and other migraine symptoms, providing relief from headache and associated symptoms.
Is Eletriptan effective?
Eletriptan's effectiveness in treating migraines has been demonstrated in multiple clinical trials. In these studies, a significant percentage of patients experienced headache relief within 2 hours of taking the medication. Eletriptan also reduced associated symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
What is Eletriptan?
Eletriptan is used to treat acute migraine headaches in adults. It works by narrowing blood vessels in the brain, blocking pain signals, and reducing the release of substances that cause migraine symptoms. It is not intended for preventing migraines or treating other types of headaches.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Eletriptan?
Eletriptan is used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks. It is not intended for long-term use or for preventing migraines. The medication should be taken at the onset of a migraine and not more than 10 days per month to avoid medication overuse headaches.
How do I take Eletriptan?
Eletriptan can be taken with or without food. It should be taken at the first sign of a migraine. There are no specific food restrictions, but patients should consult their doctor about drinking grapefruit juice, as it may interact with the medication.
How long does it take for Eletriptan to start working?
Eletriptan typically starts working within 1.5 to 2 hours after taking the medication. Patients should take it at the first sign of a migraine for the best results. If the headache returns, a second dose can be taken after at least 2 hours.
How should I store Eletriptan?
Store Eletriptan in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program, not by flushing it down the toilet.
What is the usual dose of Eletriptan?
For adults, the usual dose of Eletriptan is 20 mg or 40 mg taken at the first sign of a migraine. If the migraine returns, a second dose can be taken after at least 2 hours. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 80 mg. Eletriptan is not recommended for children as its safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Eletriptan be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Eletriptan is excreted in human milk, but the effects on the breastfed infant are unknown. To minimize exposure, it is recommended to avoid breastfeeding for 24 hours after taking Eletriptan. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits of using Eletriptan while breastfeeding.
Can Eletriptan be taken safely while pregnant?
There is insufficient data on the use of Eletriptan during pregnancy to determine its safety. Animal studies have shown some developmental toxicity at high doses. It should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. Pregnant women should discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.
Can I take Eletriptan with other prescription drugs?
Eletriptan should not be taken with other triptans or ergot-type medications within 24 hours due to the risk of additive vasospastic effects. It is also contraindicated with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole and clarithromycin within 72 hours, as they can increase Eletriptan levels and risk of side effects.
Is Eletriptan safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may experience a greater increase in blood pressure when taking Eletriptan. Although the pharmacokinetics are similar to younger adults, caution is advised. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is recommended, and any unusual symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Eletriptan?
Eletriptan may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or fatigue, which could affect your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these side effects, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities until you know how the medication affects you. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while taking Eletriptan.
Who should avoid taking Eletriptan?
Eletriptan is contraindicated in patients with heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or a history of stroke. It should not be used with certain medications like other triptans or ergotamines within 24 hours. Patients with risk factors for heart disease should be evaluated before use. Serious side effects include chest pain and serotonin syndrome.
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