ALMITAN

Almotriptan is indicated for the acute treatment of migraine attacks in patients with a history of migraine with or without aura.

Selective serotonin receptor agonists

Almotriptan is a selective and potent serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine 1B/1D) agonist. Almotriptan binds to specific serotonin receptors on meningeal arteries inhibiting the release of vasoactive peptides and causing constriction of the arteries. It has a limited effect on arteries supplying blood to the brain and little effect on cardiac and pulmonary vessels.

Treatment of acute migraine BY MOUTH Adult: 12.5 mg, dose to be taken as soon as possible after onset, followed by 12.5 mg after 2 hours if required, dose to be taken only if migraine recurs (patient not responding to initial dose should not take second dose for same attack); maximum 25 mg per day

These drugs have been reported to cause prolonged vasospastic reactions. Cases of life-threatening serotonin syndrome have been reported during combined use of triptans and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Coronary vasospasm . ischaemic heart disease . peripheral vascular disease . previous cerebrovascular accident . previous myocardial infarction . previous transient ischaemic attack . Prinzmetal’s angina . severe hypertension . uncontrolled hypertension Conditions which predispose to coronary artery disease . elderly

Common or very common Drowsiness . transient increase in blood pressure Uncommon Bone pain . chest pain . diarrhoea . dry mouth . dyspepsia . headache . myalgia . palpitation . paraesthesia . tinnitus Very rare Myocardial infarction . tachycardia Frequency not known Dizziness . fatigue . feeling of weakness . flushing . nausea . seizures . vomiting

PREGNANCY There is limited experience of using 5HT1- receptor agonists during pregnancy; manufacturers advise that they should be avoided unless the potential benefit outweighs the risk. BREAST FEEDING Present in milk in animal studies? withhold breast-feeding for 24 hours.

Keep below 30° C temperature in a dry place. Protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.