Zolmitriptan is a generic tablet treatment for the symptoms of migraine - a moderate-to-severe headache that can be accompanied by nausea, as well as increased sensitivity to light and sound.
It belongs to a class of medicines called ‘triptans’, which are licensed specifically for treating migraine headaches, rather than tension headaches or any other pain. They should also only be taken when you start getting symptoms, rather than on a scheduled basis to try and prevent or reduce the number of migraines that you experience.
How does Zolmitriptan work?
It’s not fully understood what causes migraine headaches, but it’s thought that your symptoms might be caused by a temporary widening of your brain’s blood vessels. Sometimes this can be caused by a trigger, such as stress, tiredness or certain foods and drinks. Some people also sometimes get a kind of ‘warning’ that they’re about to suffer a migraine, such as seeing small bright dots, flashes of light, or a tingling on their hands and face. This is called aura.
Zolmitriptan can treat migraines with and without aura by binding to your brain’s serotonin receptors; reducing the swelling of your blood vessels and blocking the transmission of pain signals.
What doses of Zolmitriptan are there?
There are two doses of Zolmitriptan: 2.5mg and 5mg. Our clinician will let you know which dose will be most suitable for you based on your health needs.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
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How to take Zolmitriptan
You should always take Zolmitriptan exactly as prescribed by our clinician. To take Zolmitriptan, simply swallow one tablet whole, with or without food.
If your migraine symptoms aren’t improving, wait two hours before taking another tablet. Don’t take more than two doses in a day unless instructed otherwise by your clinician.
How long does it take Zolmitriptan to work?
Zolmitriptan should get to work quickly. Many people who take Zolmitriptan experience significant symptom relief within an hour of taking it.
If your symptoms are still present after taking Zolmitriptan, you should wait at least two hours before taking another tablet. If you frequently notice that Zolmitriptan isn’t working to relieve your symptoms, speak with our clinician. You might need to try an alternative treatment.
What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Zolmitriptan?
Taking more than your prescribed dose of Zolmitriptan can be dangerous. If you’ve accidentally taken too much, seek medical advice straight away.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
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FAQ: Zolmitriptan
Have something specific you want to know? Search our info below, or ask our experts a question if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
How is Zolmitriptan different from other treatments for migraine?
Answer:
Zolmitriptan is available in two different doses, as well as orodispersible tablets, whereas other triptans for migraine relief often only come in the form of a single-dose tablet.
Aside from triptans, you can also get traditional painkillers, such as ibuprofen, for your migraine. Or, alternatively, you might prefer to use an antiemetic (anti-sickness) medication if your migraines give you symptoms of nausea. If you’re not sure what type of migraine treatment could be best for you, talk to us about your health. Our expert team should be able to help you find a treatment that suits your needs.
Is Zolmitriptan similar to any other treatments?
Answer:
There’s a branded version of Zolmitriptan, called Zomig. Zomig contains the same active ingredient as Zolmitriptan, and is also available as an orodispersible tablet. As a result, both of these treatments will work in largely the same way to treat your symptoms, but branded treatments like Zomig are typically cheaper than their generic equivalents.
If you want to take Zolmitriptan in the form of a nasal spray, though, you’ll have to use the branded version - as generic Zolmitriptan is only available in tablets.
Which version of Zolmitriptan should I use?
Answer:
Whether you choose to use the film-coated or orodispersible tablets is down to your own personal preference. Some people prefer standard tablets, whereas some people struggle with swallowing, and so will use the orodispersible version as a result.
The dose that you’ll be prescribed will depend on your health needs and symptoms. If it’s your first time taking the treatment, you might be advised to start on the lower dose first.
Do I need a prescription for Zolmitriptan?
Answer:
Yes, you need a prescription for Zolmitriptan. This is because triptans are only suitable for migraine headaches, so a clinician is going to want to make sure that your symptoms aren’t indicative of anything else before they prescribe it to you.
Why should I buy Zolmitriptan online with Treated?
Answer:
We’ll help you find the best treatment for you once you’ve talked to us about your health. Our expert team will offer you tailored treatments on flexible subscriptions, that’ll be sent promptly and securely to your door.
That means that when you next get a migraine, you’ll have a fast-acting and effective treatment on hand ready to put your symptoms behind you. And if you’ve got any questions or concerns with your treatment at any time, simply log into your account and send one of our experts a message. You can pause, change or cancel your subscription anytime.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please talk to a doctor.
