By the way, doctor: How much Imitrex is too much?
In general, people aren't supposed to take sumatriptan more than four times a month, and the maximum dose per episode is 200 milligrams. The concern about overusing the triptans comes partly from the possibility that by repeatedly narrowing the blood vessels in the head and chest the drugs might increase stroke and heart attack risk. Although they tend to home in on cranial blood vessels, the triptans also manage to find receptors on the coronary arteries and, very occasionally, can cause chest pain that resembles angina. Yet large studies haven't shown an increase in the number of strokes or heart attacks among people taking the triptans, so the worry may be a bit theoretical.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.