- Chronic Care
- Headache
Imitrex
Imitrex (sumatriptan) prescriptions available online
If you are suffering from migraine attacks or cluster headaches, Imitrex can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Imitrex from a board-certified doctor online.*
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Manage headache concerns conveniently from anywhere
Available as oral tablets, nasal spray, and injection
FDA-approved to treat migraine headaches
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About Imitrex
Imitrex (sumatriptan) is a headache medication that narrows blood vessels around the brain. It also reduces bodily substances that can trigger migraine attacks and headache pain.
Imitrex is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under different brand names, including sumatriptan.
Imitrex is available as oral tablets, a nasal spray, and an injection. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed Imitrex, complete the entire course of the headache medication unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, it may not fully treat migraine pain.
Imitrex uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for Imitrex, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your doctor may prescribe Imitrex for any of the following reasons, or other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Acute migraine headaches
Imitrex tablets are FDA-approved to treat migraine headaches. Imitrex also helps reduce substances in the body that make headaches worse, along with nausea, sensitivity to light, and other migraine symptoms.
Imitrex is not approved to treat severe migraine or cluster headaches. The overuse of Imitrex can make headaches worse (medication overuse headache).
Imitrex side effects
The side effects associated with taking Imitrex tablets are typically mild. Individuals taking Imitrex report a variety of side effects, and side effects may vary from patient to patient.
The side effects of Imitrex may include:
Chest pain or tightness
Numbness or tingling
Dizziness, drowsiness, and weakness
Unpleasant taste in your mouth (after using Imitrex nasal spray)
Runny or stuffy nose (after using Imitrex nasal spray)
Other side effects of Imitrex, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Severe stomach pain
Severe chest pain
Blood circulation problems in the hands or feet
Serotonin syndrome
Severe allergic reaction
Tell your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of Imitrex is not FDA-approved in children under the age of 12.
How to take Imitrex
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Imitrex prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Imitrex can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription.
Take your prescribed dosage of Imitrex tablets as soon as you notice headache symptoms. Take the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not take more than 200 mg of Imitrex tablets within 24 hours, as this can lead to a medication overuse headache.
What to avoid while taking Imitrex
Imitrex has several drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes prescription drugs, supplements, and other medications.
Do not take Imitrex within 24 hours before or after using another migraine headache medication, including:
Sumatriptan succinate injection, almotriptan, eletriptan, or frovatriptan
Ergot medicine, such as dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, or ergonovine
Avoid driving or other hazardous activities until you know how Imitrex tablets affect you. Your reactions may be impaired.
Imitrex may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which can worsen with alcohol consumption. Talk to your doctor about drinking while taking Imitrex.
Medication alternatives to Imitrex
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another migraine treatment or pain medication in another drug class for migraine or cluster headaches. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Migraine attacks
Maxalt (rizatriptan)D.H.E 45, Migranal (dihydroergotamine)
Reyvow (lasmiditan)
Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) Nurtec (rimegepant)Cluster headaches
Octreotide (sandostatin)
D.H.E 45, Migranal (dihydroergotamine)
Zomig (zolmitriptan)
Imitrex prescription FAQs
How much does Imitrex cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, Imitrex tablets cost around $320 for nine 25 mg tablets without health insurance. Fortunately, generic drug brands, such as sumatriptan, offer an affordable alternative.
How can I refill my Imitrex prescription?
To refill your prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
When should you not take Imitrex?
Avoid using Imitrex if you have a sudden severe headache or severe migraine or cluster headache. If you're using drugs for migraine attacks more than 10 days each month, they may make your headaches worse (medication overuse headache).
Who should not take Imitrex?
You should not take Imitrex if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
Epilepsy
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Ischemic bowel disease (decreased blood flow to the intestines)
An increased risk of coronary artery disease
What happens if I miss a dose of Imitrex?
Since Imitrex tablets are taken when needed, Imitrex does not have a regular dosing schedule. Talk to your doctor if your migraine headache symptoms do not improve with Imitrex.
What happens if I take too much Imitrex?
Call your doctor or contact your local poison control center if you've taken too much Imitrex. If you have severe symptoms like tremors, severe pain, or seizure, seek emergency medical help.
How long does it take for Imitrex to kick in?
Imitrex starts working as soon as you take your dose. In most cases, you should go from severe to mild or no headache within an hour.
3 simple steps to request your Imitrex prescription today
Step 1
Book an Imitrex prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Imitrex prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up Imitrex.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Imitrex prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Imitrex prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Imitrex prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Food and Drug Administration. Imitrex prescription label. Accessed on September 5, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/020132s028,020626s025lbl.pdf
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Sumatriptan. Accessed on September 5, 2022. https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/medications/pediatric/sumatriptan
Mayo Clinic. Sumatriptan (Oral Route). Accessed on September 5, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/sumatriptan-oral-route/description/drg-20074356
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.