Description
What is Maxalt?
Maxalt is an anti-migraine medication containing the active ingredients rizatriptan benzoate. It belongs to the group of medications known as 5-HT receptor agonists.
What is migraine?
Migraine is a common headache disorder, affecting around 1 in every 5 women and around 1 in every 15 men. A migraine is usually characterised by a moderate to severe headache, felt as a throbbing pain on one side of the head.
What are the symptoms of a migraine?
Migraine main symptom includes throbbing or pulsating headache on one side of the head. Usually associated with additional symptoms such as feeling sick or being sick and increased sensitivity to light and sound. The symptoms may vary from one individual to another and some may experience the additional symptoms without the headache. Also, migraine symptoms can last between 4 hours to 3 days.
How does Maxalt work?
Maxalt works through the active ingredient rizatriptan benzoate – a type of 5-HT receptor agonist. This medication helps to ease the symptoms of migraines by reducing the widening and swelling of blood vessels in the head.
How should Maxalt be taken?
Maxalt should be taken as soon as a migraine attack begins. Ideally, it should be taken on an empty stomach to speed up the absorption process. If your migraine attack returns you can take a second dose of Maxalt, as long as 2 hours have passed. Do not exceed 2 doses in any 24 hour period. Maxalt should start working in approximately 30 mins.
Is Maxalt suitable for me?
Maxalt is suitable for the treatment of migraines in those over the age of 18. Do not take Maxalt if you experience issues with high blood pressure, if you have had heart, severe liver, or severe kidney problems, if you have had a stroke, if you have blockage problems with your arteries, if you are taking ergotamine-type medications, or if you are taking other 5-HT receptor agonists. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before starting treatment. Do not take Maxalt if you are allergic to rizatriptan benzoate or any of its other ingredients.
What is the difference between maxalt and rizatriptan?
Maxalt is the branded product, whereas rizatriptan is the generic, non-branded treatment. Therefore, maxalt and rizatriptan are essentially the same medication, with only very small differences in binding and inactive ingredients. Their active ingredient of rizatriptan is the same and is found in the same quantities in each pill. The choice between maxalt and rizatriptan depends of past experience and personal preference. Clinically, both products should produce the exact same therapeutic effect.
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