Frovatriptan
Migraine Disorders
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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
Frovatriptan
Summary
Frovatriptan is used to treat acute migraine headaches in adults. It's not used for preventing migraines or treating other types of headaches.
Frovatriptan works by narrowing blood vessels around the brain, blocking pain signals, and stopping the release of substances that cause migraine symptoms.
The usual dose for adults is a single 2.5 mg tablet taken orally with fluids at the first sign of a migraine. If the migraine recurs, a second tablet may be taken after at least 2 hours. The total daily dose should not exceed 3 tablets (7.5 mg) in a 24-hour period.
Common side effects include dizziness, headache, dry mouth, and fatigue. Serious adverse effects can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.
Frovatriptan is contraindicated in patients with ischemic heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, and a history of stroke or TIA. It should not be used with other 5HT1 agonists or ergotamine medications within 24 hours. Serious cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, have been reported.
Indications and Purpose
How does Frovatriptan work?
Frovatriptan works by binding to serotonin receptors in the brain, which helps narrow blood vessels and block pain signals. It also prevents the release of substances that cause pain, nausea, and other migraine symptoms, providing relief from migraine attacks.
Is Frovatriptan effective?
Frovatriptan's effectiveness in treating migraine headaches was demonstrated in four randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. In these studies, a significantly higher percentage of patients experienced headache relief within 2 hours of taking Frovatriptan compared to those taking a placebo. The trials showed that Frovatriptan is effective in reducing migraine symptoms.
What is Frovatriptan?
Frovatriptan is used to treat migraine headaches in adults. It works by narrowing blood vessels around the brain, blocking pain signals, and stopping the release of substances that cause migraine symptoms. It is not used to prevent migraines or treat other types of headaches.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Frovatriptan?
Frovatriptan is used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks. It is not intended for long-term use or prevention of migraines. The safety of treating more than 4 migraine attacks in a 30-day period has not been established.
How do I take Frovatriptan?
Take Frovatriptan at the first sign of a migraine, with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions while taking this medication. If your symptoms improve but return, you may take a second tablet after at least 2 hours. Do not exceed 3 tablets in a 24-hour period.
How long does it take for Frovatriptan to start working?
Frovatriptan typically starts working within 2 to 4 hours after administration. If you do not experience relief from your migraine symptoms within this time frame, consult your doctor for further advice.
How should I store Frovatriptan?
Store Frovatriptan in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children and dispose of it through a medicine take-back program if available.
What is the usual dose of Frovatriptan?
The usual dose for adults is a single tablet of 2.5 mg taken orally with fluids at the first sign of a migraine. If the migraine returns, a second tablet may be taken after at least 2 hours. The total daily dose should not exceed 3 tablets (7.5 mg) in a 24-hour period. Frovatriptan is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Frovatriptan be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the presence of Frovatriptan in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant. In animal studies, Frovatriptan was found in milk at higher levels than in plasma. Consult your doctor for personalized advice on breastfeeding while taking Frovatriptan.
Can Frovatriptan be taken safely while pregnant?
There are no adequate data on the developmental risk associated with Frovatriptan use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown developmental toxicity at doses higher than those used clinically. Frovatriptan is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can I take Frovatriptan with other prescription drugs?
Frovatriptan should not be taken with other 5-HT1 agonists or ergotamine-containing medications within 24 hours due to the risk of additive vasospastic effects. It may also interact with SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and MAO inhibitors, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Consult your doctor for personalized advice on drug interactions.
Is Frovatriptan safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may have higher blood concentrations of Frovatriptan, but no dosage adjustment is necessary. However, due to potential cardiovascular risks, a cardiovascular evaluation is recommended before starting treatment, especially for those with multiple risk factors. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Frovatriptan?
Frovatriptan may cause dizziness or drowsiness, 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 Frovatriptan.
Who should avoid taking Frovatriptan?
Frovatriptan is contraindicated in patients with ischemic heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, and a history of stroke or TIA. It should not be used with other 5-HT1 agonists or ergotamine-containing medications within 24 hours. Patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors should undergo a cardiovascular evaluation before starting treatment. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
