| Product Name: | Maxalt (Rizatriptan) |
|---|---|
| Doses: | 5 mg, 10 mg |
| Best Online Price: | $3.99 – Per Pill |
| Where To Buy Online | OnlinePharmacy |
Maxalt, known by its generic name rizatriptan, is a widely used medication for treating migraine headaches. While Maxalt is effective, its cost can be a concern for many. Fortunately, there are affordable alternatives available in the form of generic versions.
Generic drugs are essentially the same as their brand-name counterparts in terms of dosage, safety, efficacy, strength, stability, and quality. Generic versions of rizatriptan offer a cost-effective solution for those seeking relief from migraines without the higher price tag of Maxalt.
These generic alternatives are approved by regulatory authorities like the FDA, ensuring they meet the same standards as the brand-name drug. When considering a switch to a generic, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it's suitable for your specific needs.
Purchasing generics can be done at most pharmacies, and many insurance plans offer lower copays for generic drugs. Additionally, comparing prices at different pharmacies or using prescription discount cards can lead to further savings.
Some online pharmacies also offer generic rizatriptan at competitive prices. However, it's crucial to use only reputable sources to ensure the medication's authenticity and safety.
This table provides a comparison of the average 12-month prices for Maxalt (brand) and Rizatriptan Benzoate (generic). It lists the costs for a package containing 9 tablets of 10 mg each. The table includes popular pharmacies and their respective prices for both the original medication and its more affordable generic alternative, allowing for a comparison of costs between the brand-name drug and its generic version.
| Pharmacy | Maxalt Retail Price | Rizatriptan Retail Price |
|---|---|---|
| CVS Pharmacy | $388.20 | $228.35 |
| Walmart | $454.86 | $166.82 |
| Walgreens | $443.18 | $259.25 |
What is Rizatriptan Used For?
Rizatriptan is a medication primarily used for the treatment of migraine headaches. It belongs to a class of drugs known as triptans, which are specifically designed to relieve migraine symptoms.
This medication is effective in treating migraines with or without aura, a sensory disturbance that may precede the migraine headache. Rizatriptan is known for its ability to alleviate pain, reduce nausea, and minimize sensitivity to light and sound commonly associated with migraines.
Rizatriptan is intended for use during a migraine attack to relieve headache and other symptoms. It is not designed for prophylactic use or to prevent the occurrence of migraines.
The medication works by narrowing blood vessels in the brain and reducing substances in the body that trigger headache pain, nausea, and other migraine symptoms. It is known for its rapid onset of action, typically relieving migraine symptoms within 2 hours of intake.
Rizatriptan is particularly beneficial for individuals who have not found relief from other migraine medications or those who need fast relief from acute migraine attacks.
How Does Rizatriptan Work for Migraines?
Rizatriptan functions by targeting the serotonin (5-HT) receptors in the brain. It is a selective 5-HT1B/1D receptor agonist, which means it activates these receptors on the blood vessels and nerve endings in the brain.
Activation of these receptors leads to the constriction of blood vessels that have become dilated during a migraine attack. This vasoconstriction is believed to alleviate the headache and other associated symptoms of a migraine.
Furthermore, Rizatriptan inhibits the release of inflammatory substances that contribute to the pain and other symptoms of migraines. This dual action makes it an effective treatment for acute migraine attacks.
Rizatriptan does not prevent future migraines or reduce their frequency. It is specifically designed to treat migraine symptoms once they have started.
Its effectiveness varies among individuals. Some may experience complete relief from their migraine symptoms, while others may only have a partial reduction in pain and symptoms.
In What Forms Is Rizatriptan Available?
Rizatriptan is available in multiple forms to cater to different preferences and requirements. The most common form is an oral tablet, which is easy to use and convenient for most patients.
The medication also comes in a disintegrating tablet form (Maxalt-MLT), which dissolves quickly on the tongue and does not require water to swallow. This form is particularly useful for individuals who have nausea or vomiting with their migraines and may have difficulty swallowing pills.
Rizatriptan is available in various dosages, allowing healthcare providers to tailor the dose to the individual's specific needs and response to the medication.
The medication is typically available in dosages of 5 mg and 10 mg, catering to different severity levels of migraines. The lower dose is often prescribed as a starting point, especially for patients who may be more sensitive to medication or who have milder migraine symptoms.
While the oral and disintegrating tablet forms are the most common, the availability of different dosages and forms allows patients and healthcare providers to choose the most appropriate and convenient option for managing acute migraine attacks.
Patients should follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding the form and dosage of Rizatriptan that is best for their situation.
How to Use Rizatriptan?
Rizatriptan should be taken as soon as migraine symptoms appear. The medication is most effective when taken at the onset of a migraine attack.
The standard dosage for adults is typically a single dose, with the option to take a second dose if the migraine returns. However, the second dose should not be taken within 2 hours of the first dose.
Patients should not exceed the maximum recommended dosage as prescribed by their healthcare provider. Overuse of Rizatriptan can lead to medication overuse headaches or other side effects.
Rizatriptan can be taken with or without food, but it may take longer to work if taken with a heavy meal. The disintegrating tablet form should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve without chewing.
It's essential to discuss the use of Rizatriptan with a healthcare provider, especially for patients with certain medical conditions or those taking other medications.
What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Rizatriptan?
The most common side effects of Rizatriptan include dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and nausea. These side effects are generally mild and temporary.
Some patients may experience dry mouth, throat pain, or feelings of heaviness, pressure, or tightness in various parts of the body.
In rare cases, Rizatriptan can cause more serious side effects such as heart palpitations, blue fingers/toes/nails, cold hands/feet, or mental/mood changes like agitation or confusion. Immediate medical attention should be sought if these occur.
Very rarely, Rizatriptan may lead to serotonin syndrome, a serious condition caused by excessive levels of serotonin in the brain. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include hallucinations, severe dizziness, fever, and loss of coordination.
As with any medication, allergic reactions are possible, though rare. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing. Immediate medical attention is required if these symptoms occur.
Can I Take Rizatriptan with Other Migraine Medications?
Rizatriptan can be taken with other migraine medications, but it is important to be cautious and consult a healthcare provider. Specific interactions may occur when taken with other migraine medications, especially other triptans or ergotamines.
The use of Rizatriptan with other serotonin-releasing drugs, such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), should be closely monitored as it increases the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Patients should avoid taking Rizatriptan within 24 hours of using another triptan or an ergotamine-type medication, as this can increase the risk of serious side effects.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used in conjunction with Rizatriptan for additional relief, but it's important to avoid overuse which can lead to medication overuse headaches.
Always inform the healthcare provider of all medications being taken, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
How Many Rizatriptan Can You Take in 24 Hours?
The maximum recommended dosage of Rizatriptan in a 24-hour period is typically limited. Patients are usually advised not to exceed two doses in a 24-hour period.
The standard dose of Rizatriptan is 10 mg, with the option to take a second dose if the migraine persists or returns after the initial dose. However, the second dose should not be taken within 2 hours of the first dose.
Exceeding the recommended dosage increases the risk of side effects and can lead to medication overuse headaches, a condition where frequent use of headache medications actually leads to more frequent and severe headaches.
Patients with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications may require a lower dosage and should follow their healthcare provider's specific recommendations.
It's important for patients to discuss their overall migraine treatment plan with their healthcare provider, including how often they can safely take Rizatriptan.
Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Rizatriptan?
Consuming alcohol while taking Rizatriptan is generally not recommended. Alcohol can increase the likelihood of Rizatriptan's side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
Alcohol can also trigger migraines in some individuals, reducing the effectiveness of Rizatriptan in treating migraine symptoms.
Patients who consume alcohol should discuss this with their healthcare provider to understand the potential risks and to receive personalized advice on alcohol consumption while taking Rizatriptan.
It's advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption during a migraine attack and while using Rizatriptan to manage symptoms.
Each individual's response to the combination of alcohol and Rizatriptan can vary, and any decision to consume alcohol should be made with careful consideration and medical advice.