What is Imigran and what is it used for?
Imigran Nasal Spray is a medication designed to provide relief from migraine symptoms. It contains sumatriptan, a type of 'triptan' medicine widely used to treat migraines. Ideal for those who cannot swallow tablets, it is available in single-use sprays of 10mg or 20mg.
How does Imigran work?
The exact cause of migraines isn't fully understood, but they are believed to be linked to the dilation of blood vessels in the brain, leading to throbbing pain. Sumatriptan, the active ingredient in Imigran, is a serotonin agonist. It works by stimulating serotonin receptors in the brain, causing the blood vessels to constrict and thus relieving the migraine pain. For best results, use Imigran Nasal Spray at the onset of a migraine, though it can still be effective if used later in the attack.
What is a migraine?
Migraines are severe headaches that affect about 25% of women and 8% of men in the UK. They can be triggered by various factors, including genetics, alcohol, poor diet, caffeine, stress, lack of sleep, and in some cases, hormonal changes in women. Symptoms often include intense throbbing pain, nausea, and heightened sensitivity to light, noise, and smells. Migraines may last a few hours to three days, with lingering fatigue afterward.
What are the alternatives to Imigran?
Aside from Imigran, there are several alternatives for treating and preventing migraines. For initial relief, you might consider over-the-counter options such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin, or Migraleve. For more advanced treatments, Vydura is a newly developed option available through The Independent Pharmacy.
What are the warnings for Imigran?
Imigran Nasal Spray is not suitable if you have had a heart attack or stroke, have pre-existing circulation issues, high blood pressure, liver disease, or are taking MAOIs or other triptans. Consult your doctor if you have a high risk of heart disease, a history of epilepsy, or experience chest tightness after using Imigran.
How should Imigran be used?
For best results, use Imigran Nasal Spray at the start of a migraine attack. Administer 10-20mg into one nostril. If needed, a second dose can be taken after at least two hours. Follow these steps: blow your nose if needed, hold the spray, insert the nozzle into one nostril, block the other nostril with a finger, and press the blue plunger while inhaling gently. After use, breathe in gently through your nose for 10 seconds and then discard the used spray.
What are the ingredients in Imigran?
Imigran Nasal Spray contains the active ingredient sumatriptan. Inactive ingredients include potassium dihydrogen phosphate, dibasic sodium phosphate anhydrous, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, and purified water.
What are the side effects of Imigran?
Possible side effects include chest or throat tightness, tingling sensations, nasal or throat irritation, nosebleeds, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, hot flushes, aches, and shortness of breath. If you experience any concerning effects, stop using the spray and consult your doctor or pharmacist.