Migraine medications: serotonin agonists (triptans) sumatriptan

mechanism of action

• Prevent inflammation and dilation of the intracranial blood vessels, thereby relieving migraine pain.

use

Used to stop migraines (abortive)

Complications

• Used to stop migraines (abortive)

• Complications:

  • Chest pressure-his is a complication related to the vasoconstriction of blood vessels in the lungs. Manifestations can include heavy arms or chest tightness. This effect is often described as self-limiting but is not considered dangerous

    • Heavy arms, chest tightness

  • Angina-This can be related to vasospasms of the coronary vessels.

    • Do not administer to a client who has coronary artery disease (CAD)

  • Dizziness or vertigo-Some drowsiness or a warm sensation may be experienced after taking sumatriptan

  • HTN

Contraindications

• Liver failure, ischemic heart disease, history of MI, uncontrolled HTN, other heart diseases

Drug/drug Interactions:

• Concurrent use of MAOI can lead to toxicity-MAOI stands for Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor, a class of antidepressant medications that work by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain—specifically serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine—to help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

• Concurrent use with other migraine meds can cause vasospastic reaction

SSRI’s can cause serotonin syndrome (confusion, agitation, HTN, diaphoresis, possible death)

NURSING COSIDERATIONs FOR MIGRIANE MEDS IN GENERAL

• Abortive medications should not be used more than 2 days a week

• Lying down in a dark, quiet place may ease symptoms

• Avoid trigger foods

• Avoid activities that require alertness

• Antiemetics (preferably metoclopramide - Reglan)

• Pregnancy