What is Zolmitriptan?

Zolmitriptan is a prescription-only medicine used to treat acute migraine attacks. It belongs to a class of drugs known as triptans, which are designed to target the underlying cause of migraine symptoms rather than just masking the pain.

It is most effective when taken at the first sign of a migraine, helping to reduce the intensity of the attack and relieve symptoms such as:

- Headache pain

- Nausea or vomiting

- Sensitivity to light and sound

Taking Zolmitriptan early may reduce your need for traditional painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol.

How Does Zolmitriptan Work?

The exact cause of migraines isn’t fully understood, but they are believed to involve temporary widening of blood vessels in the brain. This widening can trigger pain, inflammation, and other symptoms.

Zolmitriptan works by narrowing these widened blood vessels, helping to relieve headache pain and reduce associated symptoms. It is not intended for the prevention of migraines and should only be taken during an active attack.

How Effective is Zolmitriptan?

Triptans like Zolmitriptan have been shown to relieve migraine pain within two hours in up to 76% of patients. It can also ease other migraine symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.

For best results, take Zolmitriptan as soon as you notice migraine symptoms. It can still be effective if taken later during an attack but works best when used early.

Zolmitriptan Alternatives

If Zolmitriptan isn’t suitable or effective for you, there are other migraine treatments available, including:

Other triptans:

• Zomig (Zolmitriptan) Nasal Spray
• Zomig Rapimelt (orally disintegrating tablets)
• Sumatriptan tablets\Imigran Nasal Spray (Sumatriptan)

Non-triptan options:

• Ibuprofen
• Aspirin
• Paracetamol
• Anti-sickness medicines (e.g. metoclopramide, prochlorperazine)

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on the most appropriate treatment for your symptoms.

• Take one tablet as soon as migraine symptoms begin
• If the migraine persists or returns, you may take a second dose after at least 2 hours
• Do not take more than 10mg in any 24-hour period

Zolmitriptan can be taken with or without food, as food does not affect its absorption.

Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. If you accidentally take too much, seek immediate medical advice or contact NHS 111.

If Zolmitriptan does not work for you, consult your doctor about alternative treatments or adjusting your dosage.

Active ingredient:

Zolmitriptan (2.5 mg or 5 mg per tablet)

Inactive ingredients (may vary slightly by manufacturer):

Lactose monohydrate
Microcrystalline cellulose
Pregelatinised starch
Sodium starch glycolate
Anhydrous colloidal silica
Magnesium stearate
Hypromellose (film coating)
Titanium dioxide (E171, film coating)
Macrogol (film coating)
Iron oxide yellow (E172, in some strengths/brands)

Always read the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the complete list of ingredients, and to check for any you might be allergic to.

As with all medicines, side effects are possible, although not everyone will experience them.

Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Tingling or numbness

More serious side effects are rare, but if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or a severe allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

For a full list of side effects and warnings, refer to the patient information leaflet provided with your medication.