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How long does Imitrex (sumatriptan) take to work?

Medically reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD. Last updated on Sep 5, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Imitex (sumatriptan) is available in tablet, nasal spray, and injectable forms, with each formulation offering distinct onset times. For oral tablets, relief typically begins within 30 to 60 minutes, while the nasal spray can work within about 15 minutes, and injections provide relief as quickly as 10 to 15 minutes.

Several factors affect how quickly Imitrex (sumatriptan) provides migraine relief. Taking the medication at the first sign of symptoms usually results in the fastest improvement. It can take a few hours to notice the full effects of Imitrex. In clinical studies, more people had a response 4 hours after taking a dose of Imitrex compared to 2 hours.

Imitrex Onset Time Comparison

Formulation Onset of Relief
Tablet 30–60 minutes
Nasal Spray ~15 minutes
Injection 10–15 minutes

What If I Don't Get Relief?

If a single dose does not completely relieve migraine symptoms, you can take a second dose as long as you have had a response to the first dose and it has been at least 2 hours (for the tablets or nasal spray) or 1 hour (for the injection) since taking it. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

The maximum recommended daily dose of Imitrex tablets is 200 mg in a 24 hour period.

This is not all the information you need to know about Imitrex for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full patient medication guide and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

References
  1. National Health Service. (2022, December 8). How and when to take or use sumatriptan. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/sumatriptan/how-and-when-to-take-or-use-sumatriptan/
  2. Sumatriptan. Revised 12/2023. Bionpharma Inc. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=e90b0eea-c424-4f00-98da-6ed6e80de1f6

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