Zolmitriptan: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Zolmitriptan

Rx Only

Generic NameZolmitriptan

Therapeutic ClassSerotonin (5-HT1B/1D) Receptor Agonist

Common Dose2.5–5 mg at onset of migraine

Max / 24h10 mg

PregnancyCategory C

Indications ▼

Acute migraine attacks with or without aura

Rapid relief of headache, nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia associated with migraine

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Selective agonist of 5-HT1B/1D receptors leading to cranial blood vessel constriction, inhibition of pro-inflammatory neuropeptide release, and reduction of migraine symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics: Rapid oral absorption (peak 1–1.5 hr); hepatic metabolism (CYP1A2); excreted mainly in urine; half-life ~3 hr.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Patient Category	Recommended Dose	Max / 24h
Adults	2.5–5 mg at onset of migraine; repeat after 2 hr if needed	10 mg
Elderly	Start 2.5 mg; may increase to 5 mg if tolerated	10 mg

Note: Take with or without water; do not exceed maximum daily dose.

Side Effects ▼

Common: Tingling, dizziness, fatigue, nausea

Occasional: Chest discomfort, throat tightness, flushing

Rare: Cardiac arrhythmia, ischemic events

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to zolmitriptan

History of ischemic heart disease or angina

Severe hepatic impairment

Concomitant use of ergotamine derivatives

Drug Interaction ▼

CYP1A2 inhibitors (fluvoxamine, cimetidine) may increase plasma levels

Other triptans: additive vasospastic effects

Ergot derivatives: risk of severe vasospasm

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Use only if clearly needed (Category C)

Excreted in breast milk; caution advised

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Rapid Migraine Relief: Provides fast reduction of headache intensity and associated migraine symptoms.

Improvement in Functional Outcomes: Reduces absenteeism and improves quality of life during acute attacks.

Cardiovascular Safety: Generally well-tolerated; caution in patients with underlying cardiovascular disease.

Pharmacokinetic Advantage: Rapid oral absorption allows relief within 30–60 min.

Current Research Focus: Comparative efficacy with other triptans, long-term safety, and migraine recurrence prevention.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take at onset of migraine, with or without water

Do not exceed 10 mg in 24 hours

Report chest pain, palpitations, or severe dizziness

Avoid use with other triptans or ergot derivatives within 24 hours

Storage & Handling ▼

Store at 20–25°C; protect from moisture & light

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh (Local Brands):

Zolmig Zomig

Global / International Brands:

Zomig Zolmitriptan Sandoz

Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for dosage, interactions, and use.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Serotonin (5-HT1B/1D) Receptor Agonists • Conditions: Migraine • Pathway: 5-HT1B/1D Receptor Agonism • Clinical Evidence & Trials