DrugindexOnline^{2nd edition}

Generic name: Naratriptan hydrochloride
Brand names: Amerge

Why is Amerge prescribed?

Amerge is used for relief of classic migraine headaches. It's helpful whether or not the headache is preceded by an aura (visual disturbances, usually sensations of halos or flickering lights). The drug works only during an actual attack. It will not reduce the number of headaches that develop.

Most important fact about Amerge

Amerge should be used only for acute, classic migraine attacks. It should not be taken for other types of headache, including cluster headache and certain unusual types of migraine.

How should you take Amerge?

Amerge may be taken any time after the headache starts. Swallow the tablet whole, with liquid. If you have no response, a partial response, or return of your headache after the first tablet, consult your doctor. You may take a second tablet, but should wait at least 4 hours after the first dose. Do not take more than 2 doses within 24 hours.

--If you miss a dose...

Amerge is not for regular use. Take it only during an attack.

--Storage instructions...

Store Amerge tablets at room temperature, away from heat and light. If your medication has expired (the expiration date is printed on the treatment pack), throw it away. If your doctor decides to stop your treatment, do not keep any leftover medicine unless your doctor recommends it.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Amerge.

• More common side effects may include:
  Nausea, sensation of pain and pressure, strange sensations

Why should Amerge not be prescribed?

You should avoid Amerge if you are prone to any type of impaired circulation, including angina (crushing chest pain), heart attack, stroke, or ischemic bowel disease. Also avoid Amerge if you have severe kidney or liver disease, or suffer from uncontrolled high blood pressure.

Do not use Amerge within 24 hours of another medication in the same drug class, such as Imitrex or Zomig, or an ergotamine-based medication such as Cafergot, D.H.E. 45 Injection, Migranal Nasal Spray, or Sansert.

If Amerge gives you an allergic reaction, stop using it and notify your doctor.

Special warnings about Amerge

People with a heart or circulatory condition have been known to suffer a heart attack or stroke after taking Amerge. If you have heart disease, or know of any factors that make undetected heart disease a possibility, be sure to tell the doctor. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, excess weight, smoking, a history of heart disease in your family, and menopause.

If there's any chance of a heart problem, your doctor may administer the first dose of Amerge in the office and monitor your response. After later doses, call your doctor immediately if you experience chest discomfort (including, pain, heaviness, tightness), sudden or severe stomach pain, numbness or tingling, heat sensations, or facial flushing after taking Amerge.

Amerge is only for classic migraine headache. If the first dose fails to relieve your symptoms, your doctor should reevaluate you. Your problem may not be migraine.

If a headache feels different from any you've had previously, check with your doctor. It could be a warning of a problem unrelated to migraine.

If you have kidney or liver problems, or if you have any trouble with your eyes, inform your doctor.

Although very rare, severe and even fatal allergic reactions have occurred in people taking Amerge. Call your doctor immediately if you have shortness of breath; wheezing; palpitations; swelling of the eyelids, face, or lips; or a skin rash, lumps, or hives. Such reactions are more likely in people who have multiple allergies.

Amerge has not been tested in children or adults over age 65.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Amerge

If Amerge is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either may be increased, decreased, or altered. Do not combine Amerge with the following:

Ergot-containing drugs such as Cafergot and Ergostat
Sumatriptan (Imitrex)
Zolmitriptan (Zomig)
Antidepressants that boost serotonin levels, including Luvox, Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Amerge during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Amerge may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Amerge is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding while using Amerge.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Amerge comes in 1- and 2.5-milligram tablets. The most you should take at one time is 2.5 milligrams, and the maximum for each 24 hours is 5 milligrams. Doses should be spaced at least 4 hours apart.

If you have kidney or liver problems, the recommended dose is 1 milligram, with a 24- hour maximum of 2.5 milligrams.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Amerge overdose may include:
  Light-headedness, loss of coordination, tension in the neck, tiredness