| Common Brands | Axert (brand name no longer available) |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Triptan |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Axert is a prescription medicine, also known by its generic name almotriptan. Axert is a class of drug that falls into the category of triptans or serotonin 5-HT1 receptor agonists. These drugs work by causing the constriction of blood vessels in the brain and reducing inflammation, thus relieving the acute symptoms of a migraine attack.
Axert is effective in providing relief from migraine pain, nausea, sensitivity to light, and other common symptoms of a migraine attack.
Unlike prevention medicines, Axert is for acute or acute treatment, which is started when a migraine has already occurred; otherwise, it’s taken once. It is not used in the long term of preventing migraines or for other headaches.
Axert is available in tablet form and is administered orally. Instructions regarding the use of Axert are not complicated, but it is always best to follow a prescription provided by your doctor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Use:
Dosage: The inpatients receiving Axert start with a usual dose of 6.25 mg or 12.5 mg, taken at the onset of a migraine attack.
When the pain is not relieved in 2 hours, another dose can be received. However, no more than two doses should be taken within 24 hours. If the initial dose fails to have an effect, or if side effects occur, the doctor prescribing the drug may adjust the dose.
Taking the Tablet: Swallow the Axert tablet whole with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food.
Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, it should not be taken. Patients should only take the medication at the onset of a migraine attack, and they should not take more than the prescribed amount.
The drug almotriptan, which is the active ingredient in Axert, derives its effect from the following mechanisms:
Serotonin Receptor Agonism: Almotriptan causes selective activation of serotonin receptors that exist in the brain. These are the 5-HT1 receptors responsible for modulation of blood vessel tone and neurotransmitter release, both of which are thought to participate in the migraine process.
Vasoconstriction: The classic migraine features include dilation or widening of the blood vessels found in the brain. Almotriptan constricts these blood vessels and helps relieve the pain experienced during this condition.
Inhibition of Mediators of Inflammation: It reduces the production of inflammatory mediators (like calcitonin gene-related peptide or CGRP) that increase the pain and agonizing sensations during the attack of a migraine. Axert helps to decrease the severity and also the duration of the migraine by reducing the inflammation.
Although Axert tends to be well tolerated, any side effects may be more likely when Axert is used at a higher dose or too frequently. Common side effects are:
Nausea: Some people may develop mild nausea after receiving Axert.
Dizziness or drowsiness: The person may experience dizziness or drowsiness after taking the medication.
Fatigue: Some patients may feel unusually tired or fatigued after ingesting Axert.
Severe side effects are uncommon but can occur, particularly in patients who have some type of pre-existing condition: –
Chest pain or chest tightness: Axert has been reported to cause cardiac side effects like chest pressure or pain. This is more likely to happen to those with a history of cardiovascular disease or who have risk factors.
Stroke or myocardial infarction: Despite the rarity, it has been associated with an increased risk of stroke or heart attack in patients who have pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Patients taking Axert should discuss any pre-existing medical condition or concern with their doctor. Warning and precaution include:
Cardiovascular conditions: Axert is contraindicated in a patient who has cardiovascular diseases, stroke, or uncontrolled hypertension. It should be avoided for any patients with peripheral vascular disease because the medication causes blood vessels to constrict, which will potentially worsen these illnesses.
Serotonin Syndrome: Using Axert with other drugs that have effects on serotonin levels, especially antidepressants, can lead to serotonin syndrome.
Kidney or liver disease: Significant impairment of both liver and kidneys may require a lower dose of Axert, and in some cases, the medication could be contraindicated.
Serotonergic Drugs: Combining Axert with other serotonin-enhancing medications like SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAO inhibitors may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Ergotamine-Containing Medications: Co-administration with ergotamine or other ergot-related drugs can increase the risk of vasospastic reactions, such as severe hypertension or coronary artery spasm.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Drugs like ketoconazole or clarithromycin may increase almotriptan levels, leading to increased side effects or toxicity, necessitating dose adjustments.
Other Triptans: Using Axert with other triptans (e.g., sumatriptan) is not recommended due to an increased risk of cardiovascular events and compounded side effects.
The recommended dose of Axert for the acute treatment of a migraine attack is:
6.25 mg or 12.5 mg single dose, taken at the onset of a migraine.
If the migraine is not relieved within 2 hours, a second dose may be taken. However, no more than two doses should be taken in a 24-hour period.
Maximum dose: Do not exceed 25 mg in a 24-hour period.
It is important to follow the prescribed dosing instructions closely and avoid overuse to prevent medication-overuse headaches.
Axert is available only by prescription. Patients must consult with their healthcare provider, who will assess their medical history and current condition to determine if Axert is an appropriate medication for them.
Axert is prescribed for those patients who experience frequent and severe migraine attacks that need acute treatment.
Regular follow-up appointments are essential in monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment and preventing complications and side effects.
What is Axert?
How does Axert work?
What is the active ingredient in Axert?
What are the common side effects of Axert?
Can Axert be used to prevent migraines?
Who should not use Axert?
What is the recommended dosage for Axert?
Is Axert safe to use during pregnancy?
Can I take Axert with other medications?
What should I do if I miss a dose of Axert?
Can Axert be taken with food?
What should I do if I experience severe side effects from Axert?
Is it possible to develop a tolerance to Axert?
How should Axert be stored?
Where can I find more information about Axert?
Can Axert cause triptan sensations?
Is Axert addictive?
How long does it take for Axert to work?
What should I do if I have a headache and my Axert is not working?
Can children use Axert?
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