What is Zomig Nasal Spray?
Zomig, or Zolmitriptan, is a branded medication for migraine relief. It contains the active ingredient sumatriptan succinate, making it similarly effective and fast-acting to other migraine treatments like Imigran and Sumatriptan.
Zomig belongs to a group of medicines called triptans (5-HT receptor agonists). Triptans actively work to reverse changes in the brain which can cause migraines. Unlike painkillers such as Ibuprofen and Paracetamol, triptans like Zomig tackle the underlying issue rather than simply masking the pain of a migraine.
Why Zomig Nasal Spray?
It is thought that one of the causes of migraine attacks is a swelling of the blood vessels in the brain. Zomig Nasal Spray works by stimulating the serotonin receptors (or 5-HT receptors) found in the brain in order to narrow the blood vessels and ease pressure.
This process allows Zomig Nasal Spray to treat migraines at the source whilst also treating symptoms such as nausea, light and noise sensitivity and shoulder stiffness.
The use of a nasal spray means that Zomig is available for even those individuals who have trouble taking tablets. Relying too much on oral head pain medication for extended periods of time can result in ‘rebound headaches’ — head pain caused by the medication. The use of a nasal spray can help lower your risk of suffering these.
How to use Zomig Nasal Spray
5mg or 0.1ml is considered one dose of Zomig Nasal Spray. The maximum daily dose of Zomig Nasal Spray is 10 milligrams, meaning the spray should not be used more than twice in a 24 hour period.
Spray 5mg of Zomig Nasal Spray into one nostril as soon as possible after the onset of your migraine symptoms. Do not use the spray before symptoms have appeared as it is not a preventative medication.
If your migraine symptoms persist or recur after some time, repeat the dose of the spray. This should be done a minimum of two hours after your initial dose of Zomig Nasal Spray.
Before taking Zomig Nasal Spray, please consult the enclosed patient information leaflet.
Choosing strength
When using Zomig Nasal Spray, it is advised that you start with a lower dose of 2.5mg. If necessary, this dose may be doubled. You may require the standard 5mg dose of Zomig Nasal Spray if you feel like the lower strength dose is not controlling your symptoms sufficiently.
Side Effects
Not everybody will experience side effects when using Zomig Nasal Spray, but in a small number of cases side effects do occur. These side effects are usually mild and improve on their own without any intervention.
Common side effects from Zomig Nasal Spray include pain, heaviness, pressure or tightness in the throat or chest, and sensations such as numbness or tingling. You may also experience flushing, dizziness and short term increases in blood pressure.
For complete information regarding the possible side effects of Zolmitriptan, consult the patient information leaflet included.
Precautions
If you are taking any other non-prescription or prescription medication, consult your GP before taking Zomig Nasal Spray. You should also avoid drinking moderate to excessive amounts of alcohol whilst using the migraine relief medication, as this can increase your chances of suffering side effects from the treatment.
