Imitrex vs. Maxalt for Migraine: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Sumatriptan (Imitrex) and rizatriptan (Maxalt) are both triptans used to treat migraines, but they have some differences. Sumatriptan is only approved for adults, while Rizatriptan can be used by children as young as 6 years old. Sumatriptan is available in various forms, including tablets, injections, and nasal sprays, whereas rizatriptan comes as a tablet and an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT). Rizatriptan might work faster than sumatriptan, but its effects may not last as long. Common side effects of sumatriptan include tingling or numbness of fingers or toes, while rizatriptan often causes dizziness and sleepiness. Both medications can interact with antidepressants and other migraine treatments, so it's important to discuss all your medications with your prescriber.

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Which Triptan Medication Is Best For Migraine Relief?

Sumatriptan

(Imitrex)

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Rizatriptan

(Maxalt)

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Summary for Imitrex

Prescription only

Sumatriptan (Imitrex) is used to treat migraines with or without aura in adults. The medication is typically taken as a single dose for your migraine. But, it's possible that you can take it again 2 hours after the first dose if your migraine doesn't go away. Side effects of sumatriptan (Imitrex) include tingling or numbness of fingers or toes, feeling too warm or too cold, and fatigue. It can interact with antidepressants and other similar migraine medications. Sumatriptan (Imitrex) is available as a lower-cost generic tablet.

Indications for Imitrex

Treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults

Pros and Cons for Imitrex

Pros

First-choice option for treating migraines
Can take with commonly used over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Can start relieving migraine headaches within 30 minutes to 2 hours
Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

Can't use to prevent migraines
Must wait at least 2 hours after the first dose to take a second dose, if needed
Your migraines can get worse if you use this medication too often.
Unknown if it's safe or if it works well in children

Common Side Effects for Imitrex

Tingling or numbness of fingers or toes (3-5%)
Feeling too warm or too cold (2-3%)
Fatigue (2-3%)

Warnings for Imitrex

Heart problems and high blood pressure
Stroke or other brain injury
Extreme narrowing of blood vessels
Serotonin syndrome
Allergic reactions
Seizures

Summary for Maxalt

Prescription only

Rizatriptan (Maxalt) is used to treat migraines with or without aura in people ages 6 years and older. Rizatriptan (Maxalt) is available as a lower-cost generic tablet and an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) that's placed on the tongue. Common side effects include dizziness, headache, and sleepiness. It can interact with antidepressants and other similar migraine medications.

Indications for Maxalt

Treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in people ages 6 years and older

Pros and Cons for Maxalt

Pros

First-choice option for treating migraines
Can be used by children ages 6 years and older
Orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) a possible option for people who have problems swallowing
Works within 30 minutes

Cons

Can't use to prevent migraines
Is short-acting, so it might not last as long
Not clear if taking a second dose (adults only) is actually helpful
Your migraines can get worse if you use this medication too often.

Common Side Effects for Maxalt

Dizziness (4-9%)
Sleepiness (4-8%)
Tiredness (4-7%)
Nausea (4-6%)

Warnings for Maxalt

Heart problems and high blood pressure
Stroke or other brain injury
Extreme narrowing of blood vessels
Taking too much rizatriptan (Maxalt)
Serotonin syndrome
Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablets only