Zolmitriptan (generic Zomig)

Zolmitriptan, sold under the brand name Zomig, is a migraine medication that helps to alleviate pain and resolve headaches. It can also be used for cluster headaches. It contains the active ingredient of the same name.

It belongs to a class of prescription migraine pills called triptans. When used at the onset of a migraine headache, these medicines work quickly to relieve pain.

Zolmitriptan has been approved in various EU countries through national regulatory agencies starting from 1997. Triptans in general are the first line of treatment for moderate to severe migraines if anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen are ineffective.

Zolmitriptan and branded Zomig are available from euroClinix as tablets or orodispersible (dissolving) tablets. A Zomig nasal spray also exists, however, it is not currently available from us at euroClinix

Zolmitriptan works by narrowing the blood vessels in the brain and preventing pain signals from being transmitted.

This offers fast resolution of symptoms and allows you total relief.

Zolmitriptan is a generally well-tolerated and effective migraine treatment. Here are the most notable health benefits of the medication:

• Rapid pain relief - this medicine has been clinically proven to give you fast relief from migraine headaches.
• Targeted mechanism of action - zolmitriptan specifically targets serotonin receptors, targeting the root cause of migraines rather than just treating symptoms.
• Well-tolerated - Zolmitriptan is a generally well-tolerated migraine tablet, producing few side effects. What side effects do occur will likely go away within 24 hours to a few days.
• Improves day-to-day functioning - by relieving your migraine, zolmitriptan allows you to tackle your day-to-day activities unimpeded.

Zolmitriptan is a well-researched migraine medication, proven to be effective in multiple clinical trials.

In one such trial, 2.5 mg of zolmitriptan relieved migraine headaches in 70% of patients within 4 hours, compared to just 37% in the placebo group.

This medication may not be suitable for everyone. Complete a consultation form at the top of this page and one of our doctors will determine the correct treatment for you.

Who can take zolmitriptan?

Zolmitriptan is prescribed for the treatment of migraine symptoms at the onset of an attack. To get a prescription, you need to be over the age of 18 and experiencing migraines.

Zolmitriptan is typically prescribed to those who experience severe migraine pain. Only those who have completed an online consultation and have been approved by one of our doctors can be prescribed this treatment.

Who cannot take zolmitriptan?

You cannot take this medication if you:

• Are allergic to zolmitriptan or any other ingredient in this medication
• Have high blood pressure
• Have experienced a heart attack
• Have had a stroke
• Are taking other medications for your migraine

Cautions

Some conditions mean the safety of zolmitriptan will need to be determined by one of our doctors. Talk to your doctor if you:

• Are at risk of heart disease
• Have an irregular heartbeat
• Have chest pain (angina)
• Have previously had liver problems
• Experience headaches not like your usual migraine headache

NOTE: To take zolmitriptan correctly, follow the dosage and treatment course our medical team prescribes. This ensures the drug’s effectiveness and helps avoid side effects.

Dosage

Components

Nasal spray

Zolmitriptan comes in two forms: tablets and a nasal spray. While not currently available from euroClinix, the components of the Zomig nasal spray are as follows:

Preparing the zolmitriptan nasal spray

To prepare your dose, simply remove the protective cover from the nozzle.

Administering your dose

Follow these steps to effectively take your zolmitriptan, whether it be the nasal spray, tablets, or orodispersible tablets. These are general guidelines. Always follow your doctor's instructions on how to administer your medicine.

Nasal spray

	Gently blow your nose before removing the protective cover from the spray
	Hold the nasal spray with your fingers and thumb as shown in the corresponding image
	Block one nostril by pressing a finger on the side of your nose Put the nozzle of the nasal spray into the other nostril as far as it feels comfortable Breathe in gently through your nose and press the pump firmly with your thumb
	Keep your head tilted back and remove the nozzle from your nose Breathe in gently through your mouth for 5-10 seconds

Tablets

Follow these general guidelines when taking your zolmitriptan tablets:

• Take one tablet at the onset of migraine symptoms
• Swallow your tablet with a drink of water
• You may take another in two hours if your migraine is still present
• Do not exceed the maximum dose prescribed to you

Orodispersible tablets

Follow these general guidelines when taking your orodispersible zolmitriptan tablets:

• Place the tablet on your tongue, where it will dissolve
• You do not need to take it with water
• You may take another in two hours if your migraine is still present
• Do not exceed the maximum dose prescribed to you

When do I take it?

Only use zolmitriptan, whether tablets or nasal spray, at the first sign of a migraine. The sooner you take your dose, the sooner symptoms will subside.

Zolmitriptan will not prevent migraines from occurring. Only use it when you already feel symptoms.

Do not use more than two doses in 24 hours unless prescribed to you by your doctor. The maximum daily dose of Zomig and its generic form is 10 mg.

Zolmitriptan tablets

Zolmitriptan tablets should start working within 30 minutes after taking them. It will not prevent migraines, but once symptoms are felt zolmitriptan can reverse the effects caused by your migraine.

Zolmitriptan nasal spray

The nasal spray usually works faster than the tablets, with effects seen after just 15 minutes. This is because the active ingredient is more quickly absorbed into your bloodstream through your nose.

Zolmitriptan is safe to use long-term, but should only be used at the onset of migraine symptoms.

However, you should not use it for more than 10 days in any given month. Doing so can risk overuse headaches (rebound headaches). This happens when frequent medication use makes your brain overly sensitive to pain signals.

While zolmitriptan is a highly effective migraine medication on its own, there are some things you can do to maximise its effectiveness:

• Track your migraines - take note of how often you have your headaches and how well the medication is working. This can help determine if you need adjustments to your treatment.
• Use it discerningly - do not use this medication for headaches that are not migraines, like tension headaches.
• Avoid migraine triggers - while taking this medication, continue to identify and avoid migraine triggers. These vary between people, but common ones are stress, certain foods, and lack of sleep.
• Get enough sleep - not only can this reduce the occurrence of migraines; getting enough quality sleep can allow your body to better manage the pain.
• Stay hydrated - dehydration is a common migraine trigger. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, and you may reduce the amount of migraines you experience.

As with any prescription medication, Zomig and generic zolmitriptan can cause side effects.

How to manage side effects

Knowing how to manage side effects can give you more confidence in your day-to-day activities. Here are some tips on how to manage the most common ones.

Dizziness or drowsiness

If you feel drowsy or dizzy after taking zolmitriptan:

• Lie down and rest until it passes
• Avoid driving
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

Tingling

If you experience tingling or a warm sensation:

• Stay calm. These sensations are common and pass quickly
• Sit or lie down until the sensation passes

Nausea or vomiting

• Eat small meals before taking zolmitriptan, and opt for bland foods like toast
• Sit or lie down until the sensation passes

If you feel nauseous after taking zolmitriptan, ginger or peppermint tea can naturally settle your stomach. Furthermore, water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumber and watermelon can help with dizziness.

Silvia Fonda Nutritionist

For more detailed information, please refer to the patient information leaflet.

Medical interactions

Some medicines may be unsafe to take with zolmitriptan, including the following:

• Other migraine medications (e.g ergotamine) - maximum dose may be exceeded, increasing the risk of side effects or blood vessel spasms.
• MAO inhibitors (e.g. moclobemide) - increases the effects of zolmitriptan, potentially increasing side effects.
• Cimetidine - slows down the absorption of zolmitriptan, possibly causing too much of it in the blood at one time.
• Fluvoxamine - can also slow the breakdown of zolmitriptan, possibly requiring dosage adjustments.
• Ciprofloxacin - increases exposure to zolmitriptan, increasing the risk of side effects.
• Certain antidepressants (e.g. sertraline) - combining these drugs with zolmitriptan can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Food and herbal interactions

Some foods and herbal supplements may interact with zolmitriptan, including:

• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice - can impact the absorption of zolmitriptan
• St John’s wort - can increase serotonin levels, possibly increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with zolmitriptan
• Caffeine - in some people, caffeine can trigger migraines, while in others, it can alleviate them. Excessive caffeine taken alongside triptans can lead to medication overuse headaches.

This list does not cover all possible interactions. For a comprehensive list, please visit the zolmitriptan drug interaction checker at BNF.

Zolmitriptan does not require any special storage conditions. Here are some general guidelines for storing this medicine.

• Keep out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date stated on the carton
• Do not throw away medicines via household waste or down the drain

Note: Follow the storage and handling instructions provided by the manufacturer in the patient information leaflet.

No, zolmitriptan can only be obtained with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Prescriptions are necessary because they:

• Ensure appropriate use for your specific condition.
• Prevent potential misuse and associated health risks.
• Allow for monitoring of side effects and interactions with other medications.

Ordering zolmitriptan online from euroClinix is convenient.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Complete a quick online consultation to check your eligibility.
2. UK-registered doctors review your responses to ensure the medication is right for you.
3. Upon approval, an e-prescription will be issued.
4. Enjoy free delivery from our licensed pharmacy with tracking details.

Your privacy is our top priority. euroClinix uses secure, encrypted transactions and complies with UK medical standards to keep your information confidential.

Start your online consultation today to enjoy professional care from the comfort of your home.

euroClinix is trusted by thousands of British users for its safe and convenient service. Here’s why:

• Experienced doctors manage your consultations and prescriptions.
• Online consultations, swift approvals, and discreet doorstep delivery makes ordering quick and convenient.
• A supportive team is on hand to answer treatment-related questions or concerns.
• Patients can manage their prescriptions hassle-free through our secure platform.

Join thousands who trust euroClinix for their healthcare needs and take control of your health today.

The price of zolmitriptan at euroClinix includes everything you need:

• Free online consultation with our experienced doctors
• Free prescription, if approved
• Free delivery straight to your door

Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. Order today and benefit from our complete, all-inclusive service.

If zolmitriptan is ineffective, another one might suit you better. Here is a helpful table listing some of the most common alternatives.

Complete a consultation with one of our UK-registered doctors at the top of this page and they can determine the best course of treatment for you.