HealthNotes

Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use if available from your pharmacist before you start using sumatriptan spray and each time you get a refill. This medication comes in different brands with different strengths. Carefully read and follow the instructions for your brand. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This product is for use in the nose only. Remove the sumatriptan spray from the package only when you are ready to use it. Do not test or prime the spray before use. Doing so will make you lose the dose.

Use this medication at the first sign of a migraine as directed by your doctor, usually 1 spray into one nostril. Avoid spraying into your eyes. Gently blow your nose before using this medication. Keeping your head upright, close one nostril by pressing with your index finger on one side of your nose. You may tilt your head back slightly to keep the medicine from dripping out of your nose. Place the nozzle of the spray device into the other nostril and breathe in gently as you press the plunger. Keep your head upright, remove the nozzle from your nose, and gently breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth for 10 to 20 seconds. Your nose may feel wet inside and you may notice a slight taste after using the spray. This is normal.

If there is no improvement in your symptoms, do not take more doses of this medication before talking to your doctor. If your symptoms are only partly relieved, or if your headache comes back, you may use another dose after at least 1 or at least 2 hours (depending on your brand). The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

If you have a higher risk for heart problems (see Precautions), your doctor may perform a heart exam before you start taking sumatriptan. He/she may also direct you to take your first dose of this medication in the office/clinic to monitor for serious side effects (such as chest pain). Talk to your doctor for details.

If you are using drugs for migraine attacks on 10 or more days each month, the drugs may actually make your headaches worse (medication overuse headache). Do not use medications more often or for longer than directed. Tell your doctor if you need to use this medication more often, or if the medication is not working as well, or if your headaches get worse.