Naratriptan

Naratriptan (also known under the brand name Naramig) is a prescription medication used for the treatment of acute migraine attacks. It is taken when the migraine symptoms, such as pain and nausea, first begin. It can also be used to treat migraines with aura that are characterised by visual and sensory disturbances.

Generic Naratriptan 2.5 mg tablets are available from 121doc through a quick, confidential online consultation.

What is the difference between Naratriptan and Sumatriptan?

Naratriptan and Sumatriptan are both triptans, but they work in slightly different ways. Naratriptan works more gradually and its effects last longer, and that is why it is often used for migraines that tend to return. Sumatriptan works faster but its effects may wear off sooner. Some people also find that Naratriptan causes fewer side effects.

Your GP may recommend using Naratriptan tablets if faster-acting triptans have not worked well for you.

Naratriptan belongs to a group of medication called triptans. Its active ingredient, naratriptan hydrochloride, works by narrowing blood vessels in the brain and reducing the release of chemicals that are known to trigger migraine symptoms. It also blocks pain signals, which helps relieve symptoms like head pain, nausea, light and sound sensitivity.

Clinical trials have proven Naratriptan 2.5mg to be effective for acute migraine attacks, particularly for patients who suffer from recurring attacks.

In a double-blind study, 68% of the patients treated with a 2.5 mg dose of Naratriptan reported they were almost or completely pain-free 4 hours after taking their first dose. This number was only 33% for those using a placebo. The adverse effects of Naratriptan were also shown to be mild, similar to those of the placebo.

These results demonstrated that Naratriptan is an effective and well-tolerated option for treating migraines.

To be prescribed Naratriptan tablets from 121doc, you need to be over 18 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of migraine. Our consultation will determine whether Naratriptan is appropriate for you.

Do not take Naratriptan if you:

• are allergic to Naratriptan or any other ingredients of this medicine
• have a heart condition or circulation problems
• have a history of stroke or mini-stroke
• have uncontrolled high blood pressure
• have severe liver or kidney disease
• are over 65 years old

You should also use extra caution if you:

• are pregnant or planning to conceive
• are breastfeeding
• are a man over 40
• have been through menopause
• have high risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, such as being a heavy smoker

Talk to your doctor about your treatment options if any of these apply to you.

Naratriptan 2.5mg usually starts working within 1–3 hours. It acts slightly slower than other triptans, such as Sumatriptan, but its longer duration also helps reduce migraines from recurring.

The maximum dose of Naratriptan is two 2.5 mg tablets (5 mg) in 24 hours. Wait at least 4 hours before taking the second tablet. However, if the first dose has not improved your migraine symptoms, do not take another one for the same attack. Instead, try taking an over-the-counter painkiller (if you haven’t already) and contact your doctor to discuss alternative treatment options for future attacks.

Naratriptan tablets work best when it is taken at the first signs of a migraine, including pain or aura symptoms. It should not be taken before symptoms start or for other types of headaches.

You should not take Naratriptan for more than 2 days per week or for more than 10 days per month. This is because frequent use of Naratriptan can lead to your headaches becoming worse. These are referred to as rebound headaches. They can occur from overuse of pain relievers, such as triptans. If you are experiencing frequent migraines or they have become worse over time, talk to your doctor.

Like all medicines, Naratriptan can cause some side effects. Not everyone experiences them, and most side effects are mild and short-lasting.

The common side effects of Naratriptan can affect up to 1 in 10 of users, and they include:

• feeling tired or sleepy
• dizziness or light-headedness
• nausea
• flushing or a warm sensation
• tingling or numbness

To see a complete list of potential side effects, have a look at the patient information leaflet.

Yes, Naratriptan and ibuprofen can be taken together if advised by your GP. For some people, combining a triptan with an anti-inflammatory reliever like ibuprofen can improve symptom control.

While alcohol does not directly interact with Naratriptan, it can trigger or worsen the symptoms of migraine. It can also increase side effects such as dizziness or fatigue. Therefore, it is always best to avoid alcohol during a migraine attack.

Naratriptan may cause tiredness or dizziness in some people. These effects are usually mild and short-lived. Do not drive or use heavy machinery if you are experiencing these.

No. Naratriptan is a triptan, not an opioid. Unlike opioids, it does not cause dependence.

No, you cannot get Naratriptan migraine tablets​ without a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Safety is our number one priority at 121doc, and our doctors will only prescribe treatment if you meet the criteria in your online consultation.

A prescription from a trusted healthcare provider like 121doc ensures:

• safety during treatment
• effective results
• monitoring of side effects