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Rizafilm

rizatriptan
Used for Migraine
Used for Migraine

Rizafilm (rizatriptan) is used to treat migraines with or without aura in people ages 12 years and older. Rizafilm (rizatriptan) is a thin film that's dissolved on the tongue when you feel a migraine attack. Common side effects of this medication include dizziness, nausea, and sleepiness. Make sure your provider and pharmacist know about all of your medications because Rizafilm (rizatriptan) can interact with antidepressants and other similar migraine medications.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on June 22, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageContraindicationsAlternativesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Rizafilm (rizatriptan)?

What is Rizafilm (rizatriptan) used for?

  • Treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura

How Rizafilm (rizatriptan) works

Rizafilm (rizatriptan) is a triptan. It works by attaching to and turning on proteins called serotonin receptors in the blood vessels and nerves in your brain. This causes the blood vessels to tighten and lowers the release of proteins that cause inflammation and pain. This is thought to help with migraine symptoms.

Are you looking for information on rizatriptan tablets (Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsRizaFilm
Drug ClassTriptan
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Rizafilm (rizatriptan)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Dizziness (9%)
  • Sleepiness (8%)
  • Tiredness (7%)
  • Nausea (6%)

Other Side Effects

  • Pain or pressure in your chest or throat
  • Dry mouth
  • Tingling or prickling feeling
  • Headache
  • Racing heart
  • Diarrhea

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Heart problems: heart attack, dangerously high blood pressure, severe headache, chest pain, trouble breathing, irregular heartbeat
  • Stroke: sudden weakness on one side of your body, headache, changes in your speech or vision, confusion
  • Serotonin syndrome: fast heart rate, dizziness, sweating, flushing, tremor (shakiness), muscle stiffness or twitching, uncoordinated movement, hallucinations
  • Narrowing of blood vessels in the body: bloody diarrhea; severe stomach pain; partial or permanent blindness; tightness, weakness, numbness of legs or feet; vision problems
  • Severe allergic reaction: trouble breathing, rash, swelling in the face or throat

Source: FDA

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Rizafilm (rizatriptan)

thumbs-up

Pros

First-choice option for treating migraines

Don't need to drink water to take the dose

Good option for people with migraine-related nausea, since you don't need to swallow a pill

Works within 30 minutes

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Cons

Can't use to prevent migraines

Is short-acting, so it might not last as long

Hasn't been studied in children younger than 12 years

Safety of the medication is unknown for treating more than 4 migraines in a 30-day period

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Rizafilm (rizatriptan)

pharmacist

  • Rizafilm (rizatriptan) is packaged in individual aluminum pouches with a tear notch. To open the pouch, fold on the dotted line and tear open at the notch. Then, place the oral film on the tongue where it will dissolve within 2 minutes and can be swallowed.

    • You don't need to drink water or eat food when you take your Rizafilm (rizatriptan) dose. If the medication is hurting your stomach, you can try eating some food after you take your dose.

      • Rizafilm (rizatriptan) isn't meant to treat more than four migraines per month because it might not be safe to do so. If you have migraines multiple times a month, let your provider know. They can consider other medication options to help with your symptoms. Or they can let you know if you need to start any medications for migraine prevention.

        • Rizafilm (rizatriptan) interacts with a lot of commonly used medications. Make sure to let your provider and pharmacist know about all the medications you're taking (including vitamins and supplements) before starting Rizafilm (rizatriptan) so that they can help you check for interactions. If there are any serious interactions, your provider might even switch you to a different migraine medication.

          • Rizafilm (rizatriptan) can make you feel sleepy or dizzy. Don't drive or do anything that requires a lot of attention until you know how this medication affects you. Also, don't drink alcohol because this can worsen sleepiness and dizziness.

            • You might feel tightness, pressure, or pain in the chest, throat, jaw, or neck after taking Rizafilm (rizatriptan). This usually doesn't last long and will go away. However, these symptoms are very similar to symptoms of a heart attack or heart problems. Tell your provider if you notice these symptoms and they'll let you know if you need more medical attention.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Rizafilm (rizatriptan)

              Is Rizafilm (rizatriptan) a narcotic?
              No, Rizafilm (rizatriptan) isn't a narcotic. It belongs to a group of medications called triptans. Rizafilm (rizatriptan) isn't a controlled substance because it doesn't have a risk of addiction, misuse, or dependence.
              How often can you take Rizafilm (rizatriptan)?
              Take Rizafilm (rizatriptan) as directed by your provider. Typically, adults can take up 2 doses, at least 2 hours apart, if the migraine doesn't go away after the first dose. Children are only recommended to take a single dose of Rizafilm (rizatriptan). In general, you shouldn't take Rizafilm (rizatriptan) for more than 4 migraines a month because it's not known whether it's safe for you to do so. If you're experiencing more than 4 migraines a month, let your provider know. They can talk to you about what other medications you can take to ease the migraines, or see if you need to start any treatment for migraine prevention.
              Can you take Rizafilm (rizatriptan) with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil)?
              Talk with your provider before you start any new medications for migraines. Rizafilm (rizatriptan), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and ibuprofen (Advil) work differently to relieve migraines and don't interact with each other. In fact, if you have moderate to severe migraines, your provider might recommend that you take Rizafilm (rizatriptan) with an NSAID, like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Naprosyn). But keep in mind that acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) have their own risks (e.g., liver risks, heart risks, kidney problems). Before using other pain medications with Rizafilm (rizatriptan), speak with your healthcare provider to make sure it's safe for you to do so.
              Does Rizafilm (rizatriptan) make you sleepy?
              Yes, it's possible for Rizafilm (rizatriptan) to make you sleepy. About 8% of people taking rizatriptan tablets reported drowsiness (sleepiness) as a side effect in clinical studies. Before driving or performing activities where you need to be alert, wait and see how this medication affects you.
              What's the difference between rizatriptan (Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT) and Rizafilm (rizatriptan)?
              Both RizaFilm and Maxalt are brand-name medications that contain rizatriptan as the active ingredient. The major difference is their formulation. RizaFilm is an oral thin film that's dissolved under the tongue. Maxalt is a tablet that's taken by mouth and Maxalt-MLT is a tablet that's dissolved on the tongue. Another difference is RizaFilm is approved for children 12 years of age whereas Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT can be taken by children ages 6 years and older. Talk with your provider about which form of rizatriptan is best for you.
              What's the difference between Rizafilm (rizatriptan) and sumatriptan (Imitrex)?
              Both Rizafilm (rizatriptan) and sumatriptan (Imitrex) are triptans that work well to treat migraines. A study that compared rizatriptan tablets to sumatriptan (Imitrex) showed that rizatriptan might work faster than sumatriptan. One difference is that Rizafilm (rizatriptan) can be used in some children whereas sumatriptan is only approved for adults. Both medications are available in several different dosage forms and brand names, though there are more options for sumatriptan (Imitrex). Talk with your provider if you have more questions about Rizafilm (rizatriptan) and sumatriptan (Imitrex).
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              What are the risks and warnings for Rizafilm (rizatriptan)?

              Rizafilm (rizatriptan) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Heart problems and high blood pressure

              • Risk factors: History of heart problems | Age older than 65 | Diabetes | Identified as obese | High blood pressure | Smoking tobacco | Family history of heart disease

                Although rare, some people have reported serious heart problems, such as heart attack and heart rhythm problems, within a few hours after taking Rizafilm (rizatriptan). In addition, Rizafilm (rizatriptan) can raise your blood pressure, sometimes to dangerously high levels. If you have a history of heart problems, ask your provider if Rizafilm (rizatriptan) is a safe option for you. You won't be able to take it if you have certain blood vessel problems, heart rhythm problems, and blood pressure that's not under control.

                Your provider might recommend that you check your blood pressure periodically while you're taking Rizafilm (rizatriptan). Depending on what medical conditions you have, they might also monitor your heart rhythm regularly with an electrocardiogram (ECG). Get emergency help right away if you experience a heart attack, severe headache, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat.

                risk-warning

                Risk of stroke or brain bleeds

                Some people who've taken triptans like Rizafilm (rizatriptan) have experienced life-threatening strokes or bleeding in the brain. Symptoms of such brain injury include sudden weakness on one side of the body, bad headaches, drooping face, trouble breathing, or changes in your speech or vision. These symptoms can be similar to migraine symptoms, so strokes can be mistaken for a migraine. Let your provider know if you've had a stroke in the past because you won't be able to take Rizafilm (rizatriptan). If you notice symptoms of a brain injury, stop taking Rizafilm (rizatriptan) and get medical help as soon as possible, especially if you haven't had a migraine before.

                risk-warning

                Extreme narrowing of blood vessels

                Rizafilm (rizatriptan) can cause extreme narrowing of your blood vessels in certain parts of your body. This can lead to serious stomach problems (e.g., stomach pain, bloody diarrhea), vision problems, and changes in sensation of your hands and feet. It can also lead to color changes in your hands and feet (can turn pale or reddish depending on how much blood is flowing through). If you notice these symptoms after taking Rizafilm (rizatriptan), don't take any more medication until you see a provider so they can check out what's going on.

                risk-warning

                Serotonin syndrome

                • Risk factors: Taking other medications that raise serotonin levels in your brain

                  Some people taking Rizafilm (rizatriptan) have developed a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. This condition happens where there's too much serotonin in the brain. Your risk for serotonin syndrome goes up if you use Rizafilm (rizatriptan) with other medications that can raise your serotonin levels, such as certain antidepressants, mental health medications, pain medications, and migraine medications.

                  Let your provider know about all the medications you take before starting Rizafilm (rizatriptan), as well as any medications you plan to take. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, fever, and confusion. Get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms.

                  risk-warning

                  Taking too much Rizafilm (rizatriptan)

                  Taking more than the recommended dose of migraine medications can cause them to not work as well. This can lead to more migraine-like headaches or more migraine attacks. Let your provider know if you're experience more than 4 migraine headaches a month while taking Rizafilm (rizatriptan). They can talk with you about better options to help with migraines.

                  risk-warning

                  Allergic reaction

                  Rarely, the active ingredient in Rizafilm, rizatriptan, can cause allergic reactions. Some reactions are life-threatening (e.g., anaphylaxis). If you experience trouble breathing, swelling in your face or neck, or rash, get medical attention right away.

                  dosage

                  Rizafilm (rizatriptan) dosage forms

                  Typical dosing for Rizafilm (rizatriptan)

                  • Adults: The typical dose is 10 mg placed and dissolved on the tongue for one single dose. If your migraine doesn't go away, or gets better and then worse again, you can take another dose at least 2 hours later. The maximum dose is 30 mg in a 24-hour period.

                  • Children (ages 12 years and older and weighing at least 88 lbs): The typical dose is 10 mg placed and dissolved on the tongue for one single dose. Don't take more than 10 mg in a 24-hour period.

                  contraindications-icon

                  Rizafilm (rizatriptan) contraindications

                  Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Rizafilm (rizatriptan) will not be safe for you to take.
                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Rizafilm (rizatriptan)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Rizafilm (rizatriptan). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Rizafilm (rizatriptan)
                  Used for:

                  • Treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura

                  View Prices
                  Sumatriptan (Imitrex)
                  Used for:

                  • Treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults

                  $11.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Frovatriptan (Frova)
                  Used for:
                  $38.02 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  Ailani, J., et al. (2021). The American Headache Society consensus statement: Update on integrating new migraine treatments into clinical practice. Headache.

                  Department of Justice/Drug Enforcement Administration. (2020). Narcotics.

                  Diener, H., et al. (2019). Treatment of migraine attacks and prevention of migraine: Guidelines by the German Migraine and Headache Society and the German Society of Neurology. Clinical and Translational Neuroscience.

                  View All References (8)

                  Feuerstadt, P. (2019). Small bowel ischemia. American College of Gastroenterology.

                  IntelGenx Corp. (2023). RizaFilm (rizatriptan) oral film [package insert].

                  Kadian, R., et al. (2023). Basilar migraine. StatPearls.

                  Kolodny, A, et al. (2004). Comparison of rizatriptan 5 mg and 10 mg tablets and sumatriptan 25 mg and 50 mg tablets. Cephalagia.

                  Kumar, A., et al. (2023). Hemiplegic migraine. StatPearls.

                  Nicolas, S., et al. (2023). Triptans. StatPearls.

                  Sevinç Özakar, R., et al. (2021). Current overview of oral thin films. Turkish Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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