Compare Imitrex vs. Topamax
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Sumatriptan (Imitrex) and topiramate (Topamax) are both used to manage migraines, but they work differently and have different uses. Sumatriptan is a triptan that treats migraines by tightening blood vessels and reducing inflammation. It's taken as needed when a migraine starts and can be taken again after 2 hours if needed, but not more than twice in 24 hours. Topiramate, on the other hand, is an antiepileptic that prevents migraines and treats seizures. It's taken daily, either once or twice, depending on the form. Sumatriptan is available as a lower-cost generic, while topiramate also comes in generic forms and various formulations, including tablets, capsules, and a liquid. Sumatriptan can cause heart problems and serotonin syndrome, while topiramate can lead to kidney stones, vision problems, and high blood acid levels. Both medications interact with other drugs, so it's important to discuss all your medications with your prescriber.
- Sumatriptan (Imitrex)Topiramate
- Sumatriptan (Imitrex)Topiramate
Summary of Imitrex vs. Topamax
Summary for TriptanPrescription onlySumatriptan (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.
Summary for AntiepilepticPrescription onlyTopiramate is a prescription medication that can be used alone or in combination with other medications to treat certain types of seizures. It can also be used to prevent migraines. It comes in immediate-release and extended-release tablets and capsules, as well as a liquid. Topiramate is typically taken by mouth once or twice daily, depending on what formulation you're using. Some forms of topiramate are available as lower-cost generic medications.
Indications of Imitrex vs. Topamax
Indications for•Treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adultsIndications for•Seizures (partial seizures, tonic-clonic seizures, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome)•Migraine preventionPros and Cons of Imitrex vs. Topamax
Pros and Const for TriptanPros•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 genericCons•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 childrenPros and Const for AntiepilepticPros•Can be used on its own or with other medications to control seizures•Available in short-acting and long-acting forms, so options to take once or twice daily•Available as a solution (Eprontia), so it's convenient for people who have trouble swallowing•Can be used to treat different types of seizures•Can be used to treat seizures in both adults and childrenCons•Can prevent migraines from happening, but it won't help if you have a migraine attack•Can cause kidney stones•Can cause serious eye problems•Interacts with many medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin), phenytoin (Dilantin), and divalproex (Depakote)•Children taking this medication for long periods of time will need to have their doses adjusted often due to changes in body weight as they growCommon Side Effects of Imitrex vs. Topamax
Common Side Effects forPlease note: These are common side effects reported by children and adults who took immediate-release topiramate. Frequency of side effects can differ based on your age, as well as the dose and formulation of topiramate you're taking.
•Feeling "pins and needles"•Drowsiness•Weight loss•Nervousness•Fatigue•Dizziness•Lack of appetite•Trouble sleeping•Upper respiratory tract infection (e.g., cough, stuffy nose, sore throat)•Fever•Change in taste•Trouble moving or keeping balanceWarnings of Imitrex vs. Topamax
Common Side Effects for•Heart problems and high blood pressure•Stroke or other brain injury•Extreme narrowing of blood vessels•Serotonin syndrome•Allergic reactions•SeizuresCommon Side Effects for•Vision problems•High body temperature and trouble sweating•Higher level of acid in blood•Suicidal thoughts or behavior•Problems with mood and thinking clearly•Higher ammonia level in blood•Serious birth defects•Skin reactions•Withdrawal seizures•Interaction with other medicationsPrices with our coupons for Imitrex vs. Topamax
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