Is relpax fatal? I've never taken the medication before, I have at least one migraine a week, and my neurologist prescribed this for me, but when I read about it, its a bit scary, I will be taking 40mg, but not to exceed 40mg in a 24 hour period, what if it doesn't let up, can I take another one a few hours later, or just live with it? I read if I've never taken it before I may experience some chest pain, when do I know when the pain is not right and to go to the ER? My doctor's office is 2 hours away from where I live, and the ER is only 30 minutes away, so going to the Doctor's office may not be an option at that point! HELP!!!
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Q: Is relpax fatal
Answers (1)
11/ 7/08 10:08pm
Hi Sabrina!
I know that it is scary to first be diagnosed and realize that what you have been experiencing is not "just a bad headache".
Relpax is an abortive medication, meaning that it can actually stop the Migraine process. If Relpax does not work for you, there are 7 other triptans that may help you as well.
And now to your question: Is Relpax fatal? The triptans such as Relpax all have warnings about using them if you have any history of heart attack or stroke. These warnings must be stated clearly, but the triptans actually have a good safety record when used as directed. If you have concerns about Relpax, talk it over with your doctor.
Whenever I have tried a new triptan, I tried it on a Migraine I got at home. That way I can see how I react to the medication: does it make me sleepy? How did I tolerate this medication? It seems to be more comfortable trying them at home then at work or school for the first time.
I also want to talk to you a bit about your Migraines. You stated you get a least one a week? Did your doctor discuss preventive treatment with you? If you are experiencing 3 Migraines a month - or one bad Migraine a month - then you should be talking to your doctor about preventive treatment options. There are over 100 medications currently being used as Migraine preventives. We have the list right here: Migraine Preventive Medications: Too Many to Give Up!
You may also be interested in our article explaining the difference between the medications Migraineurs take: Preventive, Abortive and Rescue Medication: What's the Difference?
If you are in need of a doctor - please check out our Patient Recommended List of Migraine and Headache Specialists, as well as Migraine and Headache Specialists: What's So Special?
If you are interested in talking with other Migraineurs; we have a forum on the site as well! That way you can chat with people who understand what you are going through, and know where you are coming from. You can access the forum by clicking HERE, or from the main page of the site under the orange "Manage" box.
Good luck with the Relpax! I hope it works great for you!
Eileen Gray
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