Frova vs. Zomig for Migraine: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Frovatriptan (Frova) and zolmitriptan (Zomig) are both triptans used to treat migraines, but they have some key differences. Frovatriptan is only available as a tablet that you swallow, while zolmitriptan comes in multiple forms, including a tablet, an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT), and a nasal spray. This makes zolmitriptan a better option if you have trouble swallowing pills during a migraine. Both medications work within 2 hours, but the dosing limits differ: you can take up to 7.5 mg of frovatriptan in a day, whereas zolmitriptan's limit is 10 mg. Neither medication should be used more than 9 days per month. Both medications can cause side effects like dizziness and chest pain, but zolmitriptan's nasal spray can also cause an unusual taste. Lastly, both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options.

Frovatriptan

(Frova)

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Zolmitriptan

(Zomig)

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Summary for Frova

Prescription only

Frovatriptan (Frova) is one of the many triptans available for treating migraine. It's approved for adults who have migraines with or without aura. The dosage is a tablet that's swallowed whole when you have a migraine. You can take another tablet 2 hours later if the medication doesn't completely relieve your migraine. Side effects include dizziness, tiredness, and sometimes chest tightness. Frovatriptan (Frova) is available as a brand-name and generic medication.

Indications for Frova

Treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults

Pros and Cons for Frova

Pros

A first-choice option for short-term treatment of migraines
Effects might last longer than other triptans

Cons

Might not be a good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills whole during a migraine
Might take about 2 hours or longer to feel complete pain relief
Not recommended for children under 18 years old

Common Side Effects for Frova

Dizziness (8%)
Tiredness (5%)
Headache (4%)
"Pins and needles" feeling in the hands or legs (4%)
Flushing (4%)
Dry mouth (3%)
Hot or cold sensation (3%)
Bone pain (3%)
Indigestion (2%)
Chest pain (2%)

Warnings for Frova

Heart attack and chest pain (angina)
Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
Stroke or other brain injury
Extreme narrowing of blood vessels
Worse headaches if you take frovatriptan (Frova) too often
Serotonin syndrome
High blood pressure
Allergic reaction

Summary for Zomig

Prescription only

Zolmitriptan (Zomig) is used for the short-term treatment of migraines. You typically take just one dose when you have a migraine. Zolmitriptan (Zomig) can cause side effects like dizziness and chest, neck, or jaw pain. This medication is a tablet that you swallow. It also comes as an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) and a nasal spray, which can be good options for people who have trouble swallowing pills during a migraine. Zolmitriptan (Zomig) is available by prescription only as a brand-name and generic medication; it's not found over the counter.

Indications for Zomig

Treatment of migraine

Pros and Cons for Zomig

Pros

One of the first-choice options for adults to treat moderate or severe migraine
Works within 2 hours after taking the dose
Has ODT and nasal spray forms, so it's a good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills during a migraine

Cons

Not used for other types of headaches
Doesn't prevent migraines from happening
Can worsen your headaches if you take the medication for more than 9 days in a month

Common Side Effects for Zomig

Tablets and orally disintegrating tablets

Nausea (up to 9%)
Dizziness (up to 8%)
Pins and needles feeling in the arms or legs (up to 7%)
Neck, throat, or jaw pain, tightness, or pressure (up to 7%)
Sleepiness (up to 6%)
Feeling warm or cold (up to 6%)
Body weakness (up to 5%)
Dry mouth (up to 5%)
Chest pain, tightness, pressure, or heaviness (up to 3%)

Nasal spray

Unusual taste (up to 17%)
Dizziness (6%)
Pins and needles feeling in your arms or legs (5%)
Throat pain (4%)
Feeling warm (4%)
Dry mouth (3%)
Body weakness (3%)

Warnings for Zomig

Heart attack and chest pain (angina)
Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
Stroke or other brain injury
Blood vessel issues
Serotonin syndrome
High blood pressure
Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - for orally disintegrating tablet only