Rizatriptan: Dosage, Side Effects, Brands & Clinical Use

Rizatriptan Benzoate (Clinical Reference)

Table of Contents:

• Mechanism
• Dosage
• Safety
• Brands
• Research

Primary UseAcute Migraine

T-Max (Peak)1 - 1.5 Hours

Max / 24h30 mg (Adult)

PregnancyCategory C

Mechanism of Action & Pharmacokinetics

Pharmacodynamics: Rizatriptan is a selective 5-HT_1B/1D receptor agonist. It acts by binding to receptors on intracranial blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction, and by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides such as CGRP from trigeminal nerve endings.

Pharmacokinetics: Absorption is rapid with a bioavailability of ~45%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 1–1.5 hours for oral tablets. It is primarily metabolized by MAO-A.

Dosage & Administration Guidelines

Patient Group	Initial Dose	24h Maximum
Adults	5 mg or 10 mg	30 mg
Pediatrics (6-17y)	Weight-based	Single Dose

💡 Propranolol Interaction: Patients on Propranolol should be limited to a single 5 mg dose of Rizatriptan (Max 15 mg in 24 hours).

Contraindications & Critical Safety

🚨 MAO-A Window: Do not use within 14 days of discontinuing an MAO-A inhibitor.

• Contraindicated in Ischemic Heart Disease (Angina, History of MI).
• Do not use in patients with Uncontrolled Hypertension or Stroke history.
• 24-Hour Rule: Do not combine with other triptans or ergot-type medications within 24 hours.

Clinical Evidence & Brand Directory

Research Summary: Clinical trials indicate that Rizatriptan 10 mg may provide faster pain relief compared to oral sumatriptan 50/100 mg in certain populations.

Local (Bangladesh):
Rizamig (Healthcare) Rizat (ACME)

Global Brands:
Maxalt (Merck) Rizalt Rizact

Triptans Hub Migraine Hub CGRP Pathway

Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Treatment decisions must be made by a qualified healthcare professional.