What is Zolmitriptan 2.5 mg?

Zolmitriptan 2.5 mg tablets are a migraine treatment from a group of medicines called triptans. They are used to treat an acute migraine attack once it has started and can help reduce headache pain as well as associated symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sensitivity to sound.

This product page refers to zolmitriptan 2.5 mg tablets supplied on a private prescription following an online consultation.

How does Zolmitriptan work?

Zolmitriptan works by acting on serotonin receptors in blood vessels and nerves involved in migraine. This helps reverse the changes linked to a migraine attack and can reduce headache pain and other migraine symptoms. It is used to treat an attack that has already started and is not used to prevent migraines from happening.

What is Zolmitriptan 2.5 mg used for on this page?

On this product page, zolmitriptan 2.5 mg tablets are used specifically for:

– Acute migraine attacks in adults

– Migraine with or without aura

– Relief of migraine headache and associated symptoms such as nausea, photophobia and phonophobia

It is not used here for:

– Migraine prevention

– Headaches that have not been diagnosed as migraine

– Hemiplegic migraine or basilar migraine

– Cluster headache with standard oral tablets

– Children

Your prescriber will confirm zolmitriptan is appropriate based on your symptoms, migraine history, medical history and any other medicines you are using.

Who may be suitable for Zolmitriptan 2.5 mg?

You may be suitable if:

– You are an adult with a clear history of migraine

– Your headaches fit a migraine pattern and are appropriate for triptan treatment

– You are able to take the tablet as soon as the migraine headache starts

– You understand that it is for treating an attack rather than preventing future attacks

Your prescriber will consider:

– Your migraine history and whether the diagnosis is clear

– Whether your symptoms are typical of migraine or whether there are warning signs needing further assessment

– Whether you have heart disease, stroke risk factors, circulation problems or uncontrolled blood pressure

– Any other medicines or health conditions you have before deciding if zolmitriptan is suitable for you.

Who should not use Zolmitriptan 2.5 mg or needs medical advice first?

Do not use without medical advice if you:

– Are allergic to zolmitriptan or any of the ingredients in the tablets

– Have coronary heart disease, previous heart attack, angina or significant heart rhythm problems

– Have had a stroke or transient ischaemic attack

– Have peripheral vascular disease

– Have uncontrolled high blood pressure

– Have severe liver impairment

– Have been diagnosed with hemiplegic or basilar migraine

– Are taking ergotamine, methysergide or another triptan too close to the dose

– Are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors or have taken them in the last 2 weeks

Use with caution and seek prescriber advice if you:

– Have risk factors for heart disease such as smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes or strong family history

– Have mild to moderate liver problems

– Have epilepsy or a history of seizures

– Are taking SSRIs, SNRIs or other medicines that may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome

– Are pregnant or breastfeeding and want to check suitability first

How do I take Zolmitriptan 2.5 mg?

Your prescriber will confirm the exact directions. 

Practical advice:

– It is best taken after the headache has started, rather than during the aura phase

– Swallow the tablet whole with water

– If the first tablet helps but the migraine returns, a second dose may be taken after at least 2 hours if advised

– If the first tablet does not help for that attack, taking another dose for the same attack is unlikely to help

If your symptoms get worse, do not improve as expected, or you develop new or unusual neurological symptoms, seek medical advice.

General self-care advice:

– Rest in a dark, quiet room if possible

– Keep hydrated

– Avoid driving if migraine symptoms or treatment side effects affect you

– Keep a migraine diary if attacks are frequent

– If you need migraine treatment often, ask for review because regular use can sometimes lead to medication overuse headache

Side effects and when to get help

Common side effects can include dizziness, tiredness, tingling, nausea and feelings of heaviness, tightness or pressure. These are often short-lived.

Seek medical advice urgently if you develop chest pain, severe shortness of breath, severe allergic symptoms, weakness on one side, trouble speaking, seizures, collapse or any severe unexpected reaction after taking the medicine.

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