Zomig Tablets 2.5mg
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Availability
Fastest delivery available: 11/12/2023
Medication features
Zomig is the brand name for the anti-migraine drug Zolmitriptan.
- Medicine works at the source
- Treats migraines
- Easy to use
Overview
What is Zomig?
Zomig is a migraine medication that provides effective relief from migraine attacks.
It is the branded version of the generic drug Zolmitriptan. Zolmitriptan is part of the triptan group, which includes drugs that are selective serotonin receptor agonists.
Zomig comes in tablets, or as a nasal spray.
What Is Zolmitriptan Used For?
Zolmitriptan, the active ingredient of Zomig, is used to alleviate the symptoms of migraines and provide fast-acting pain relief.
Migraine is a common neurological condition that possesses a number of incapacitating symptoms, including severe headaches, pain, nausea, sensitivity to light, and visions of flashing lights. These symptoms can differ depending on the type of migraine you suffer from.
Zolmitriptan is effective in relieving migraines with aura, or migraines without aura. An aura is the ‘warning stage’ that comes before a migraine.
How does Zomig work?
The pain that comes from a migraine is thought to be caused by a widening of the brain’s blood vessels.
Zomig belongs to the category of medicines known as triptans, which work to relieve migraine symptoms by causing the affected blood vessels in the brain to narrow.
It can also block the release of the natural substances which cause migraines and prevent pain signals from being sent to the brain.
Zomig and Alcohol
Alcohol doesn’t affect how Zomig works.
However, you shouldn’t drink when you have a migraine. That’s because alcohol can make the symptoms of your migraine worse, and may intensify any possible side effects such as nausea and drowsiness.
Zomig During Pregnancy
The full effects of taking Zomig during pregnancy are not known yet.
Observational studies have analysed the use of triptan drugs in a group of pregnant women, and according to The Migraine Trust, the chance of ‘major malformations’ for this group was reported as similar to the general population’s risk. No significant risk of taking Zomig while being pregnant has been identified by these studies, but there is no conclusive evidence yet.
If you are pregnant, you should discuss taking Zomig with your doctor.
Likewise, if you have been prescribed Zomig, you should consult your doctor before breastfeeding. The amount of Zomig that infants ingest in breastfeeding is very small, due to the low levels of Zomig in breast milk, so it is generally considered safe. However, it is best to speak to your doctor first.
Zolmitriptan vs Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan is sold under the Imigran brand in the UK. Like Zolmitriptan — the generic name for Zomig — it is a migraine relief medicine that belongs to a group of drugs called triptans.
Both medicines can be prescribed for the treatment of migraine and cluster headaches. Like Zolmitriptan, Sumatriptan enables the stimulation of the serotonin receptors in the brain and reduces the widening of the blood vessels, alleviating migraine pain.
Both Zolmitriptan and Sumatriptan can be purchased in tablet or nasal spray.
There are no major differences between Zolmitriptan and Sumatriptan medication. However, you may find that one works better than the other to alleviate your migraine symptoms. Speak to your doctor about which they would recommend for you if you aren’t sure which to choose.
Zomig vs Maxalt
Maxalt is the branded version of the generic Rizatriptan in the UK. It is a migraine medication that belongs to the same triptan class of drugs as Zomig.
The two drugs work similarly, being selective serotonin receptor agonists that stimulate serotonin receptors in the brain. Both Zomig and Maxalt narrow the blood vessels, reducing the widening that migraines cause. This alleviates pain.
In the UK, Zomig and Maxalt are available for a similar price. They share some of the same potential side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, a mild headache and nausea.
Zomig and Maxalt take different times to take effect. While Zomig can be effective in up to an hour, Maxalt can take only 30 minutes to take effect.
The dosages of Zomig and Maxalt are also different. Zomig is taken in 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg or 5 mg doses, while Maxalt is usually taken in 5 mg or 10 mg doses.
Zomig Reviews
Zomig reviews generally describe this medicine in a very positive light, with some Zomig users reporting that it was the first treatment to be successful in reducing their severe migraine symptoms significantly.
Reviews online urge Zomig users to start taking Zomig as soon as their migraine starts in order to receive the full benefits of the medication.
Others have expressed their satisfaction that Zomig allows them to continue with their daily activities without suffering from migraine pain. Among the side effects reported are a burning sensation and tingling, and for many reviewers, these side effects are outweighed by the benefits of taking Zomig.
Can I Buy Zomig Tablets Over the Counter?
In the UK, you cannot buy Zomig tablets over the counter.
Zomig is a prescription-only treatment, so a doctor will need to assess the suitability of this medication for you before issuing a prescription. Once you have received your prescription, you can buy Zomig tablets online or from your local pharmacy.
The average Zomig tablets price in the UK is in the region of £40 for a pack of six 2.5 mg tablets or £70 for a pack of 12 2.5 mg tablets.
At Cloud Pharmacy, we offer an online consultation service for a variety of treatments across many medical conditions.
You can safely buy Zomig online at Cloud Pharmacy — simply click the ‘Start Consultation’ button on this page.
This quick and easy online consultation will help our online prescriber make sure that Zomig is the right medication for you. Once your prescription has been issued, we can dispense your tablets and send them to your door in discreet packaging via our next-day delivery service.
Warnings
As with other migraine medications, utilizing too much of this medication can cause more headaches or can make your headaches worse. Tell your doctor if you think that this is applicable for you. Patients may need to refrain from taking Zomig to address the problem.
The 2.5 mg tablet has lactose, a certain type of sugar. If you have been advised by your doctor to steer clear of all sugars, ask your doctor first before you take Zomig for your migraine.
Zomig is not to be used by children and those under 18 years old.
Zomig medication can be taken with or without a meal. It does not in any way affect the efficacy of the drug in treating migraine headaches.
Zomig may not be taken by pregnant and breastfeeding women, those who might be pregnant, and even those who have a possibility of becoming pregnant.
Should you be breastfeeding or pregnant, or planning to be one, ask your physician for any advice regarding the medication prior to taking it.
A migraine attack can slow you down. This is also true when operating machinery or if you are driving. Zomig may not impact your alertness when driving or using machinery. But, it can make you feel sleepy or drowsy. Never take it if you are driving or will perform any activity that requires your focus and alertness.
If your migraine attack is not treated by Zomig, or when it becomes worse, contact your physician right away and inform him or your condition. Do not attempt to self-prescribe this medication.
Directions
Zomig Tablet Dosage
The Zomig dosage that you are prescribed can vary according to several factors. Your response to the treatment, other medication you are currently taking, and how old you are can influence the dosage.
Your doctor will enquire if you are taking any other prescription medication, over-the-counter medicine or supplements and if you have any allergies.
Zomig is available in 2.5 mg and 5 mg tablets. You can purchase film-coated tablets, or an easy-to-swallow, orodispersible version. Typically, 1.25 mg or 2.5 mg is the initial adult dosage of Zomig. The maximum single dose of Zomig is 5 mg.
You shouldn’t take any more than 10 mg of Zomig over a 24-hour period. Taking too many Zomig tablets can lead to a headache.
Zomig tablets are not recommended for children.
How to Take Zomig
Zomig comes in the form of a tablet or an orally disintegrating tablet if you are unable to swallow them whole.
It is advised to take the medication at the first sign of a migraine. Do not use this medication in smaller or larger doses than recommended.
Take Zomig tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist. On occasion, your doctor may change your dose for the best results.
You can take Zomig tablets by mouth with or without food. If there is no improvement in your symptoms, do not consume any more of this medication before consulting with your doctor or pharmacist.
You may take another dose at least two hours after the first dose only if your headache comes back or your symptoms are not completely relieved. Ensure you do not take more than 10 milligrams within a 24-hour period.
How Often Can You Take Zomig?
You shouldn’t take more than two doses of Zomig over a 24-hour period.
Zomig doesn’t have a daily dosing schedule — you should take it when you need it. A study has shown that a 5 mg dose of Zomig, along with an optional second dose of 5 mg for recurring migraines, is effective in treating multiple migraine attacks.
After you have been prescribed Zomig tablets, your GP may schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the effectiveness of the treatment.
If Zomig tablets have been helpful, it is likely that the treatment will be continued. If Zomig hasn’t been effective, or you have experienced unwanted side effects, your doctor may prescribe you another drug in the triptan group, such as Sumatriptan or Rizatriptan.
How Long Does Zomig Stay In Your System?
The elimination half-life of Zomig tablets — that is, the time it takes for the total amount of the drug in the body to be reduced by 50% — is 2.5 to 3 hours.
Generally, the effect of a drug will have a negligible therapeutic effect after four half-lives (or 10 to 12 hours) — by which point, the total amount of the drug in the body will have reduced to just 6.25%.
As we’ve mentioned above, you shouldn’t take more than two Zomig doses in a 24-hour period. If you don’t feel like Zomig tablets are effectively treating your migraine symptoms, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for alternatives.
Side Effects
Zolmitriptan Side Effects
Many people don’t experience side effects from Zolmitriptan. However, as with all medicines, there is a risk of experiencing side effects. These are usually mild.
Among the most common potential side effects of Zomig are:
- A tingling feeling
- A burning feeling
- Heaviness in the neck or chest
Drowsiness - Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Weakness
You should inform your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any of the above side effects — they will be able to provide advice on how to reduce adverse effects or provide further guidance.
It is rare to experience serious side effects from zolmitriptan. These may include:
- An irregular or fast heartbeat
- Stomach pain
- Blurred vision
- Lower back or side pain
- Confusion
- Breathing difficulty
- Numbness
- Diarrhoea
- A sudden urge to urinate
- Skin colour changes
If you experience any serious Zomig side effects, any other adverse effects that we have not mentioned above, or you are concerned in any way, stop using Zomig and speak to your GP straight away.
Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction to Zomig. These include:
- A rash or hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, tongue lips and throat
A full list of side effects can be found in the Zomig Patient Information Leaflet that comes with the medication.
Patient Information Leaflet
Zomig Tablets Patient Information Leaflet
For more information on Zomig medication, take a look at the patient information leaflet below:
FAQs
What is A Migraine?
Migraines generally start as a dull ache and then develop into a throbbing and pulsating constant pain that you will likely feel at the temples as well as the front or back of both sides of your head. The pain usually comes with bouts of nausea, vomiting and hypersensitivity to light and sound. Prior to a migraine attack, some people will experience something called an aura (about 25% of people who suffer from migraines).
What Causes Migraines?
The cause of mingraines is stilll somewhat ambiguous however it is believed to be caused by a chemical reaction in the brain which leads to constriction of certain vessels, triggering the headache. There is thought to be both environmental and genetic factors which influence who gets migraine as well as susceptibility to migraine attacks.
How Do I Treat Migraines?
Migraines can be treated using a variety of techniques, however unfortunately, there is no cure for migraines. The most common way to deal with migraines is to use a particular class of medcations known as triptans. Triptans are used to treat the acute migraine symptoms. However there are some prophylactic/preventative treatments that can be take for the treatment of migraine such as propranolo and topiramate.
What is A Migraine Aura?
Around 20-25% of people who suffer from Migraine will likely have an aura prior to the migraine itself. An aura can be described as varying intensities of certain neurological symptoms that act as a 'warning sign' to tell you that you are about to have a migraine. An aura can manifest as you seeing wavy or jagged lines, dots or flashing lights- this often described as a chemical or electrical wave that moves accross the visual cortex. Auras can also lead to you having tunnel vision or blind spots in one or both eyes. There are other symptoms associated with a migraine aura such as auditory/visual hallucinations, changes in small (phantom smells), numbness, pins and needles or speech disturbances.
Can The Weather Affect Migraines?
For some people, weather changes can cause an imbalance in neurotransmitters and chmicals in the brain such a sereotning (5-HT), which can lead to more frequent migraines. Bright sunshine as well as hot and humid conditions may lead to your migraines being triggered. Some studies have shown that low barometric pressure can act as a trigger for migraines for some people.
What is A Migraine Trigger?
Migraine triggers vary person to person; something that affects one person may not affect the other. Surveys, diary studies and clinical trials have inidicated that stress, menstrual cycle changes, weather changes, sleep disturbances, alcohol, and other foods are among the most common factors mentioned when it comes to triggering a migraine. To help prevent migraines it is important to keep a diary of when you have a migraine attack. This allows for you to pin-point what may be causing your migraine and therefore drastically reducing your chance of getting a migraine.
Am I More Likely to Get A Stroke if I Suffer From Migraine?
Migraines are generally considered a relatively benign neurological condition. However, research has shown an association between migraines and stroke, and especially between migraine with aura and ischaemic stroke. Patients can also suffer from migrainous infarction (blood clot), a subset of ischaemic stroke that often occurs in the posterior circulation of younger women. The exact origina of migrainous associated infarction is not known, but it is theorised that the duration and local neuronal energy level from cortical spreading depression may be a prime factor.
Is There A Link Between Hormonal Changes and Migraine?
Horomones are proteins that are responsible for the regulation and overall biochemical function of our body to allow for complete balance and homeostasis as your environment changes. If you have a hormonal imbalance in your body during menopause, pregnancy or mestruation it can lead to a migraine attack.
What Medications Can Be Used to Treat The Acute Symptoms of Migraine?
Acute medications are used to treat the pain of the headache after the migraine has started. Examples of acute migraine medications are some NSAIDS (ibuprofen/diclofenac/naproxen), ergots (ergotamine) and triptans (sumatriptan/rizrtriptan/zolmitriptan)
How Can I learn More About Migraines?
There are a variety of resources available to learn about migraines online. We have summarised the most reliable sources on our cloud pharmacy blog: Migraines: More Than Just A Headache
Reviews
Confirm Zomig Tablets 2.5mg treatment selection
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