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Rizatriptan

Latest prescription information about Rizatriptan. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Rizatriptan
Pronunciation : RYE-za-TRIP-tan
Therapeutic Classification : Analgesics
ICD Code : Y45
Trade Name(s): 
India- Rizatan, Rizact , Ritza, Migsun.
International- Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is is a selective serotonin receptor agonist, prescribed for the treatment of migraines in adults. It narrows blood vessels in the brain and stops the release of certain natural substances that cause pain, nausea, and other symptoms of migraine.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): Contraindicated in patients less than 18 years, those with prior heart attack and other heart diseases, uncontrolled high blood pressure, peripheral vascular disease, basilar or hemiplegic migraine, severe liver or kidney disease.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Dosage & When it is to be taken : 
Adult: The recommended initial dose is 5 to 10mg, oral. If symptoms recur after initial response, a further dose of 10 mg may be given. Separate doses by at least 2 hour. Maximum: 30 mg/24 hour.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth with or without food.
Warnings and Precautions : 
*It may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely.
*It may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
*Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. Ensure an interval of at least 24 hr after stopping an ergotamine compound and starting a serotonin (5-HT1) agonist.
*Caution needed for patients with history of mild to moderate liver or kidney impairment; coronary artery disease; pregnancy, breastfeeding, seizures, elderly.
*Patient may develop with increased risk of Serotonin Syndrome with the following symptoms: increased heart rate, shivering, sweating, dilated pupils,etc . If it is so consult with your healthcare provider.
Side Effects : 
Most Common- Dizziness, sleeplessness, tiredness, fatigue, pain or pressure sensation.
Heart- Slow or fast heart beat, increased blood pressure, chest discomfort, tightness in chest, low blood pressure.
Musculoskeletal- Muscle weakness, stiffness, and spasm; and muscle and bone pain.
Central Nervous system - Nervousness, decreased mental sharpness, tremor, headache, abnormal sensation, vertigo, sleep disturbance, mood and personality changes, alterations in speech and movement, memory impairment, confusion, dream abnormality and seizure.
Gastrointestinal - Stomach upset, diarrhea, dry mouth, constipation, gas, thirst, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, changes in appetite, burping.
Skin - Flushing (redness of the face lasting a short time), hot flashes, sweating, itching, rash, acne and skin reaction to sunlight.
Respiratory - Difficult or rapid breathing, dryness or discomfort of the throat or nose, nosebleed, yawning and sinus disorder, cold-like symptoms, cough, and hiccups.
Eye and ENT- Visual disturbances, ringing in the ears, ear pain, eye discomfort, swelling or tearing, alterations in hearing and smelling, visual intolerance to light, and bad taste.
Miscellaneous - Allergic reactions including swelling of face, lips, tongue and/or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing and/or swallowing, wheezing, hives, rash, and severe sloughing of the skin. Chills, heat sensitivity, swelling, bloating, hangover effect, fever, fainting, dizziness on standing up, warm/cold sensations, dehydration and changes in urination and menstruation.
Other Precautions : 
*Avoid additional doses, if there is no improvement in your health condition.
Storage Conditions : 
Keep this medication in an airtight container.Do not remove tablets from the blister pack until just before use. Store the medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture.

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Reference  

  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • PubMed
  • CIMS
  • Indian Pharma Reference Guide 2012
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