Maxalt

What is Maxalt?

Maxalt is a migraine treatment that comes in two forms; it’s available as a tablet that can be swallowed or an orodispersible (meaning it melts on the tongue). It’s been shown to help with the symptoms of migraine like headache, nausea and light sensitivity.

Maxalt works best if you take it as soon as you start feeling symptoms of migraine, and it should get to work quickly to stop them developing. It won’t treat regular headaches, nor will it prevent or make future migraines less likely.

How does Maxalt work?

A migraine typically involves a moderate to severe headache, and it’s usually felt on one side of your head. Common symptoms also include increased sensitivity to light and sound, as well as nausea and vomiting. Some people can experience something called ‘aura’, which accompanies or precedes the migraine. This is a sensory disturbance that can include flashes of light, blind spots, vision changes or tingling in the hands and face.

It’s thought that these symptoms happen as a result of the blood vessels widening. Maxalt treats migraines by narrowing your brain’s blood vessels, which then relieves the pain and discomfort. It also works by stopping the brain from receiving certain signals. This can help with symptoms unrelated to pain too, such as nausea.

What doses of Maxalt are there?

Maxalt comes in two strengths: 5mg and 10mg. The standard dose for adults is 10mg, however you’ll be advised to use the 5mg dose if you have kidney or liver problems, or if you’re taking propranolol.^[1]

If you find that the migraine headache returns, you might be advised to take a second dose 2 hours after the first dose. The maximum dose is 20 mg over a 24-hour period.

Dosage also depends on body weight. If your body weight is less than 40 kg, then 5 mg is recommended. Whereas if you’re over 40 kg, 10mg can be taken.

How to take Maxalt

You should always follow the advice of your clinician when taking Maxalt, as well as read the leaflet that comes with your treatment.

To take Maxalt tablets:

• Take the tablet out of the blister – with dry hands;
• Take it with water;
• It can be taken as soon as you notice a migraine headache;
• Adults can then take another dose if symptoms are still present (or come back) after two hours;
• The safety and efficacy of Maxalt in paediatrics hasn’t been established yet, so there is currently no licensed dose for children;
• You should not take Maxalt for more than 10 days a month. Please let your clinician know if you get more than four migraines a month.

To take Maxalt Melt oral lyophilisates:

• Open the blister pack with and remove the oral lyophilisate;
• Place it on your tongue. It will dissolve and can be swallowed;
• The orodispersible can be used in situations where you don’t have access to drinks.

How long does it take Maxalt to work?

Maxalt will start to relieve pain from migraine after 30 minutes, with most people feeling better within two hours. It’s important to note that Maxalt will only treat migraines that have already started, it won’t prevent them from happening in the future.

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Maxalt?

If you have made a mistake with your dosage then it is recommended to call your doctor or local health centre for advice. If you find that you’re experiencing strong side effects, or your doctor is unavailable, then go to your nearest hospital. Even if you aren’t experiencing discomfort or signs of poisoning.