Sumatriptan | Health Notes at WWSM | Health Information at WWSM

Sumatriptan

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Also indexed as: Imigran, Imitrex

Sumatriptan is a member of the selective serotonin receptor agonist family of drugs used to treat, but not prevent, migraine headaches. Sumatriptan is available in injection, nasal spray, and oral tablet forms.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, a herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.

Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results.	5-HTP* L-tryptophan*
Depletion or interference	None known
Side effect reduction/prevention	None known
Supportive interaction	None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability	None known

An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Interactions with Dietary Supplements

5-HTP and L-tryptophan
Sumatriptan works by stimulating serotonin receptors in the brain. 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) and L-tryptophan are converted to serotonin in the brain, and taking them with sumatriptan could increase sumatriptan-induced side effects. However, no interactions have yet been reported with sumatriptan and 5-HTP or L-tryptophan.

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds

Food
Sumatriptan tablets may begin to work faster when taken with fluid on an empty stomach at the first sign of migraine.¹ ²

References
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.

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Interactions with Dietary Supplements

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds