Relpax
Generic name: Eletriptan hydrobromide
Brand names: Relpax
Why is Relpax prescribed?
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Relpax is used to treat migraine headaches with or without the presence of auras (visual disturbances that precede an attack, such as halos or flickering lights). It shortens the duration of the headache but will not prevent attacks.
Most important fact about Relpax
Relpax should only be used during a genuine attack of classic migraine. Do not attempt to prevent migraines with Relpax, and do not use it for tension headaches, cluster headaches, or unusual types of migraine such as hemiplegic or basilar migraine.
How should you take Relpax?
Take 1 dose of Relpax as soon as your symptoms appear. If the first dose does not relieve the headache, check with your doctor before taking a second one.
If the headache goes away but returns later, a second dose may be taken if 2 hours have elapsed since the first dose. Do not take more than 80 milligrams of Relpax in a 24-hour period.
- If you miss a dose...
Relpax is not intended for regular use and should be taken only to relieve an acute migraine attack.
- Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Relpax.
- Side effects may include:
Chest tightness or pressure, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, sleepiness, tingling, weakness
Why should Relpax not be prescribed?
You should not use Relpax if you have ever had a heart attack or if you have ever had any of the following vascular problems: angina, cardiovascular disease, coronary artery vasospasm, ischemic bowel disease, ischemic heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, Prinzmetal's angina, stroke, transient ischemic attacks, or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
You cannot take Relpax if you have severe liver impairment.
Relpax should never be taken within 24 hours of other migraine or headache medication (see "Possible food and drug interactions when taking Relpax").
If Relpax causes an allergic reaction, you will not be able to use it.
Special warnings about Relpax
In rare cases, medications similar to Relpax have caused heart attack, stroke, and certain types of ischemia (restricted blood flow to an area). Call your doctor immediately if you experience chest pains, shortness of breath, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or seeing, loss of balance, bloody diarrhea, or stomach pain.
If you are at risk for stroke or heart disease, your doctor may perform cardiovascular tests to be sure it is safe for you to take Relpax. Your doctor may ask you to take the first dose of Relpax in the office, where you can be monitored for cardiac side effects.
Since Relpax can make you drowsy or dizzy, do not participate in activities that require full alertness until you are certain of the drug's effect.
Relpax can cause a slight increase in blood pressure, especially in people with kidney problems and the elderly. Your doctor will monitor you closely to make sure your blood pressure stays at a safe level. If you develop high blood pressure that can't be controlled, you'll have to stop taking Relpax.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Relpax
If Relpax is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Never take Relpax within 24 hours of using another migraine or headache drug, including:
Almotriptan
Dihydroergotamine
Ergotamine
Frovatriptan
Methysergide
Naratriptan
Rizatriptan
Sumatriptan
Zolmitriptan
You should also refrain from using Relpax within 72 hours of taking the following:
Clarithromycin
Itraconazole
Ketoconazole
Nefazodone
Nelfinavir
Ritonavir
Troleandomycin
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Relpax in pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
Relpax is excreted in breast milk. If you are nursing an infant, discuss your treatment options with your physician.
Recommended dosage for Relpax
ADULTS
When a headache begins, take one 20-milligram or 40-milligram tablet. If the first dose does not relieve the headache, check with your doctor before taking a second one.
If the headache goes away but returns later, a second dose may be taken if 2 hours have elapsed since the first dose. Do not take more than 80 milligrams of Relpax in a 24-hour period.
Relpax is not recommended for use in children under 18 years old.
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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Relpax - Includes detailed dosage instructions.
