Triptans are an alternative treatment for acute migraine if simple painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications are not effective.
They are available as tablets, dissolvable tablets and nasal sprays (injection preparations are available in certain clinical situations, but we are not able to provide prescriptions for these via this service, or our video consultation service).
During a migraine, the blood vessels in the brain become enlarged (dilated). Triptans work by narrowing (constricting) the enlarged blood vessels and reducing the severity and duration of migraine attacks.
Unlike painkillers, you should not take these medications too early in a migraine episode; you should take them when the headache pain is starting, and not before (do not take them during the warning or aura phase).
There are several different types of triptans and people will find that one works better than another for them, so a little trial and error can be useful to find one that works for you. You should try a triptan during at least three acute migraine episodes before deciding if it is effective or ineffective. It is important to be aware that an effective triptan will not work for every migraine attack.
These medications are not suitable to use to prevent migraine attacks. They should only be taken to treat migraine that has been previously diagnosed by a doctor, as there are other causes of headaches. If triptans are not working, please arrange a medical review.
You should not take different types of triptan medication at the same time and you should never exceed the recommended dose.