Brand name:
Relpax
Pronounced: RELL-packs
Generic name:
Eletriptan hydrobromide
Why is Relpax prescribed?
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.
Relpax side effects
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 (Axert)
Dihydroergotamine (DHE-45, Migranal)
Ergotamine (Cafergot)
Frovatriptan (Frova)
Methysergide (Sansert)
Naratriptan (Amerge)
Rizatriptan (Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT)
Sumatriptan (Imitrex)
Zolmitriptan (Zomig)
You should also refrain from using Relpax within 72 hours of
taking the following:
Clarithromycin (Biaxin)
Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Nefazodone (Serzone)
Nelfinavir (Viracept)
Ritonavir (Norvir)
Troleandomycin (TAO)
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
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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