Monday, February 13, 2012
Thursday, June 04, 2009 pushhard asks

Q: Efficacy of Imitrex and generics

I have tried two generic versions of Imitrex.  One was basically non-effective, the other proved to be somewhat effective at three times the dosage of specific Imitrex.  My insurer no longer allows true Imitrex.  Is there any evidence that generics are lower in their effectiveness?

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6/ 5/09 4:18pm

Dear Pushhard - I don't think anyone has studied the issue at this point. With a generic medication the medication (sumatriptan) is the same but I believe the fillers, coating, time release or delivery methods can be different. It's possible that you might be absorbing it at a different rate than the brand name.

 

I have found the generic to be equally effective as long as I take it at the very first sign. I have heard some others who like the generic better, and others who say it doesn't work well. If you're like most of us, it may not work exactly the same from one Migraine to another.

 

I am concerned about you taking it at "three times the dosage" - be sure you're not exceeding the dosage limits!

 

Good luck to you.

 

- Megan

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