Zolmitriptan nasal spray is used to treat the symptoms of migraine headaches (severe, throbbing headaches that sometimes are accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to sound and light). Zolmitriptan is in a class of medications called selective serotonin (5-HT) receptor agonists. It works by narrowing blood vessels around the brain and stopping the release of certain natural substances that cause pain, nausea, and other symptoms of migraine. Zolmitriptan does not prevent migraine attacks.
Zolmitriptan comes as a spray to inhale through the nose. It is usually used during a migraine attack. If your symptoms improve after you use zolmitriptan but return after 2 hours or longer, you may use a second dose of zolmitriptan. However, if your symptoms do not improve after you use zolmitriptan, do not use a second dose without talking to your doctor. Do not use more than two sprays of zolmitriptan in a 24-hour period. Call your doctor if you need to use zolmitriptan nasal spray to treat more than four headaches in 1 month. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use zolmitriptan exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Do not use zolmitriptan nasal spray to treat a headache that feels different than your usual migraine attacks. Call your doctor to find out what you should do.
If you have certain risk factors for heart disease, your doctor may ask you to use your first dose of zolmitriptan nasal spray in the doctor's office or other medical facility where you can be monitored for serious reactions.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.
Read all of the manufacturer's instructions for using the nasal spray before you use your first dose.
Blow your nose gently.
Remove the protective cap from the sprayer.
Hold the sprayer between your fingers and thumb, but be careful not to press the plunger.
Use your other hand to block one nostril by pressing firmly on the side of your nose.
Put the tip of the sprayer into your other nostril as far as feels comfortable and tilt your head back slightly. Be careful not to press the plunger or spray the medication in your eyes.
Breathe in gently through your nose. At the same time, press the plunger firmly with your thumb. The plunger may feel stiff and you may hear a click.
Keep your head slightly tilted back and remove the tip from your nose.
Breathe gently through your mouth for 5-10 seconds. It is normal to feel liquid in your nose or the back of your throat.
The sprayer only contains one dose of medication. After you have used it, throw it away in a trash can that is out of the reach of children and pets.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
sore or irritated nose
sensitive skin, especially around the nose
dry mouth
unusual taste in the mouth
upset stomach
dizziness
weakness
burning or tingling feeling
pain, tightness, pressure, or heaviness in the chest, throat, or jaw
slow or difficult speech
dizziness or faintness
problems with vision
weakness or numbness of an arm or leg
fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
bloody diarrhea
stomach pain
paleness or blue color of the fingers and toes
shortness of breath
swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
difficulty swallowing
hoarseness
Zolmitriptan nasal spray may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
sleepy, quiet state
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Reviewed - 04/01/2012
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.