Sumatriptan 20mg
Sumatriptan, sold under the brand name Imigran, is a prescription medication used to treat acute migraines. It alleviates symptoms during the headache stage of a migraine, such as throbbing pain, nausea, and light sensitivity.
Sumatriptan 20mg prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 20mg | 2 Nasal Sprays | £22.49 |
| 20mg | 6 Nasal Sprays | £52.49 |
| 20mg | 12 Nasal Sprays | £93.74 |
| 20mg | 18 Nasal Sprays | £131.24 |
All strengths and pack sizes are listed on the Sumatriptan page.
Sumatriptan (Imigran): Effective Migraine Relief
What is Sumatriptan (Imigran)?
Sumatriptan, sold under the brand name Imigran, is a prescription medication used to treat acute migraines. It alleviates symptoms during the headache stage of a migraine, such as throbbing pain, nausea, and light sensitivity.
Sumatriptan is not a preventative medication and should only be taken when experiencing a migraine attack. It is available in two forms: tablets and a nasal spray, both of which are fast-acting and effective.
How Does Sumatriptan Work?
Migraines are believed to result from the widening of blood vessels in the brain, triggered by changes in serotonin levels. Sumatriptan is a serotonin receptor agonist (triptan) that helps:
- Constrict Brain Blood Vessels: Returns blood vessels to their normal size, reducing headache intensity.
- Block Pain Signals: Prevents migraine pain from reaching the brain.
Both the tablet and nasal spray forms of Sumatriptan contain the active ingredient sumatriptan succinate, delivering relief within 30 minutes for tablets and 15 minutes for the nasal spray.
Benefits of Sumatriptan
- Provides quick relief from migraine symptoms.
- Available in multiple forms (tablet and nasal spray).
- Effective for those unable to take oral medications due to nausea.
- Can be taken alongside other painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
How to Use Sumatriptan
Tablets
- Take one tablet (50mg or 100mg) at the onset of a migraine.
- Swallow whole with water (with or without food).
- If symptoms return after initial relief, you may take a second tablet after 2 hours, but do not exceed 300mg in 24 hours.
Nasal Spray
- Use one 20mg spray in one nostril at the start of a migraine.
- Avoid spraying into both nostrils.
- Do not use more than two doses in 24 hours.
Who Can Use Sumatriptan?
Sumatriptan is suitable for most adults who experience acute migraines and have been diagnosed by a medical professional. However, it is not suitable for everyone.
Do Not Use If You:
- Have a history of heart attack, stroke, or severe circulation issues.
- Suffer from high blood pressure or liver disease.
- Have certain rare types of migraines, such as hemiplegic migraines.
- Are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Precautions:
- Avoid if you’ve recently taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or other migraine medications.
- Do not use it during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting your healthcare professional.
- Limit use to less than 10 days per month to avoid rebound headaches.
What Are the Side Effects of Sumatriptan?
Like all medications, Sumatriptan can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.
Common Side Effects:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Hot or cold sensations
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness in the chest
Serious Side Effects (Rare):
- Allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, or throat)
- Irregular heartbeat
- Seizures
If you experience any severe reactions, seek medical attention immediately.
Can I Take Sumatriptan With Other Medications?
Sumatriptan is generally safe to use with painkillers such as paracetamol, aspirin, or ibuprofen. However, avoid combining it with other migraine medications or triptans.
Do not take Sumatriptan with:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- SSRIs, SNRIs, or St John’s Wort (risk of serotonin syndrome)
- Opiates like tramadol without medical advice
Why Choose Sumatriptan?
Sumatriptan is a reliable, fast-acting treatment for acute migraines. Whether you prefer tablets or a nasal spray, it provides effective symptom relief, enabling you to return to your daily activities faster.
FAQs About Sumatriptan
What is Sumatriptan used for?
Sumatriptan treats acute migraines and associated symptoms such as headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light.
How long does Sumatriptan take to work?
Tablets work within 30 minutes, while the nasal spray works in 15 minutes.
Can I take Sumatriptan with painkillers?
Yes, Sumatriptan can be taken with paracetamol, aspirin, or ibuprofen for enhanced relief.
How many doses can I take in 24 hours?
Do not exceed 300mg (tablets) or 40mg (nasal spray) in 24 hours.
Can I use Sumatriptan during pregnancy?
Consult your healthcare professional before using Sumatriptan if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can I drink alcohol after taking Sumatriptan?
While alcohol does not directly interact with Sumatriptan, it may worsen migraine symptoms.
How does the online consultation for Sumatriptan work?
- Complete a confidential online health questionnaire.
- A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your answers and confirms whether the treatment is clinically appropriate.
- If approved, your medication is dispensed by the pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging by tracked UK delivery.
See how the service works or browse all treatments.