Naratriptan

GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles (MBBS, MRCS, PgDip SEM) provides a simple explanation of the medication below:

'Naratriptan is a medication used for the management of migraine headaches that works by reducing levels of pain signals released from the brain. '.

If you think Naratriptan is a treatment that can help you, start an online consultation now for a registered prescriber to review. If treatment is deemed suitable, they can prescribe it, and we can deliver it to you from the comfort of your own home with a range of convenient delivery and payment options for you to choose from. If you have any questions about a medication, you should always consult your doctor with any questions prior to starting treatment, to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

Naratriptan is a medication that is used to help treat migraines and the symptoms associated with them. The cause of migraines is not completely understood, however, it is believed that it is due to a combination of genetic, environmental and neurological factors.  

Naratriptan contains the active ingredient naratriptan hydrochloride. This helps to relieve the pain caused by migraines and headaches, as well as the other symptoms of migraines such as light and noise sensitivity, nausea, and vomiting. It is important to note that Naratriptan does not prevent future migraines.

It is important that you only use Naratriptan as you have been directed to by a healthcare provider. Usually, you will need to take one tablet orally at the first sign of a migraine. You should not use this medication to prevent migraines. If your symptoms do not improve you should NOT take another dose.

The correct dosage for Naratriptan will vary depending on the preferences of your healthcare provider. Typically, one tablet taken with or without food at the first sign of a migraine will effectively treat your symptoms. If your symptoms are partly relieved or if your headache returns you may take a second dose after 4 hours. You should not take more than 5mg of the medication in a 24-hour period. 

Naratriptan is suitable for use by adults and children over the age of 12 years who are suffering from migraines. 

Naratriptan may not be suitable for some people to use. Firstly, if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in this medication then you should not use it under any circumstances. You may also wish to tell your doctor if any of the following applies to you:

• You are at high risk of heart disease or diabetes
• You have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• You are considered to be overweight
• You smoke
• You are a post-menopausal female or a male over the age of 40

You should only use Naratriptan whilst pregnant if your doctor believes that the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks.

It is unknown whether Naratriptan passes into breast milk. If you are looking to use this medication whilst breastfeeding you may wish to consult with your healthcare provider. 

You should ensure to let your healthcare provider know about any medications you are already taking before you start taking Naratriptan. If you use other ‘triptan’ medications you may need to separate your doses to avoid side effects. 

As with all other medications, Naratriptan can cause some side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Flushing
• Tingling, numbness, prickling or heat
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness

You should tell your doctor if you have any serious side effects such as blue fingers, toes or nails, if you have a cold sensation in the hands or feet, or if your hearing starts to change. 

This medication can make you drowsy so should be used with caution alongside alcohol or drugs. Do not drive or use machinery whilst using this medication. To fully understand the warnings associated with this medication you should fully read the patient information leaflet included with Naratriptan. 

You can purchase Naratriptan online from UK Meds which is delivered directly to your door.