Drug Information

The following information is obtained from various newswires, published medical journal articles, and medical conference presentations.

Drug Name: Imitrex (sumatriptan) injection and tablets

Company: GlaxoSmithKline
Approval Status: Approved August 1997
Treatment Area: migraine headaches

General Information

Glaxo Wellcome, Inc. has received clearance from the FDA to market the nasal spray form of Imitrex (sumatriptan). Imitrex is the company's innovative therapy for the acute treatment of migraine and is currently available in the U.S. in subcutaneous injection form and tablet form. Imitrex Nasal Spray will be available to consumers by prescription in October.

Side Effects

In clinical trials for Imitrex Nasal Spray 20 mg, the most common side effects included bad/unusual taste, and nausea and/or vomiting. Most side effects are mild and transient.

Additional Information

Imitrex, a nonsedating, nonnarcotic medication, is the only migraine therapy that treats the multiple symptoms characteristic of migraine, including severe recurrent pain usually on one side of the head often accompanied by one or more of the following: nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Imitrex is equally effective when taken at any point during a migraine headache.