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Eletriptan

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Brand name(s): Relpax

Contents of this page:

Why is this medication prescribed?

Eletriptan is used to treat the symptoms of migraine headache (severe throbbing headache that sometimes comes along with nausea and sensitivity to sound and light). Eletriptan is in a class of medications called selective serotonin receptor agonists. It works by reducing swelling of blood vessels in the brain, stopping pain signals from being sent to the brain, and blocking the release of certain natural substances that cause pain, nausea, and other symptoms of migraine. Eletriptan does not prevent migraine attacks or reduce the number of headaches you have.

How should this medicine be used?

Eletriptan comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken at the first sign of a migraine attack. If your symptoms improve after you take eletriptan but return after 2 hours or longer, you may take a second tablet. However, if your symptoms do not improve after you take eletriptan, do not take a second tablet before calling your doctor. Do not take more than two eletriptan tablets in any 24-hour period. Call your doctor if you need to take eletriptan more than three times a month. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take eletriptan exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

You may take your first dose of eletriptan in a doctor's office or other medical facility where you can be monitored for serious reactions.

Other uses for this medicine

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking eletriptan,

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Talk to your doctor about drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Eletriptan may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:

Eletriptan may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Last Revised - 01/01/2004


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The MedMaster™ Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.