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Avatar universal

Imitrex

I don't have much of a question, but wanted to introduce myself.  I've periodically had migraines throughout my life, but they were never very often.  However, that changed since I've been diagnosed with lupus and fibromyalgia (as well as other chronic pain issues).  Especially since the fibro was discovered (about 15 years ago), my migraines have increased in frequency.  The week before last, I had 3 in that week alone.  They are typical migraines - severe, pounding headache on one side (usually the left for me), light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, nausea/vomiting.  I would typically just try and "ride it out" - taking my normal meds, going in a dark, quiet room and trying to stay as still as possible until the headache, etc., would pass.  However, since I had so many the week before last, I decided it was time to ask my doctor about them when I saw him last week.

He has given me imitrex to try (I've never tried any of the prescription migraine meds), as well as phenergan for the nausea/vomiting that accompanies the headaches.

I was just wondering what other people's experience with the imitrex has been - good or bad - and if they have any other tips of things I can try (non-medicinal) to reduce the pain, etc., of the migraines.

Fortunately, (knock on wood), I haven't had a migraine since I saw my doc on thursday, so I haven't tried the imitrex yet.  I'm always leary/hesitant about ANY new medication, so would definitely appreciate any advice about this med that anyone might have.

Thanks so much!

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Avatar universal
Im allergic to Imitrex, when my neurologist tried me on that when it first became available, within 5-10 minutes, i was throwing up, dizzy spells, and ready to pass out from the horrible pain.  Over the years hes tried me on other "safe" meds, unfortunately they did not work for long.  Im now on Butorphanol spray, demerol, ativan and sleeping pills, all for pain management, ,i have also been on preventatives for years,i have not worked for 20 yrs from my intense migraines.  Although Imitrex im sure works for alot of people which is great if your body reacts well to it, unfortunately for me it didnt.  Wishing you well in your journey.
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Avatar universal
I have never had luck with the immitrex . I usually get a script of vicodin for my migraines and that usually does the trick although I do have to rest in my bed for awhile after taking the vicoden. I have always had better luck with the vicoden especially if the episode is a bad one . I mean sensitivity to light , naseau and the whole nine yards . . I have never been able to pin point the triggers so that never worked for me nor did accupunture . I am just telling you what worked for me and that was vicodin .
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,
How are you? Imitrex ( sumatriptan) is a headache medicine that narrows blood vessels around the brain and controls the symptoms for migraine. However, it will only treat a headache that has already begun and will not prevent headaches or reduce the number of attacks. Aside from medications, you can also try to identify the possible migraine triggers and avoiding them to prevent recurrences. Also, complementary and alternative medicine such as acupuncture may help with the pain and other symptoms. Take care and best regards.
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