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Can You Take Relpax With Ibuprofen?

Key Takeaways

  • Yes, Relpax (eletriptan) and ibuprofen can usually be taken together for acute migraine attacks.
  • There is no direct drug interaction between eletriptan and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen.
  • Combining a triptan with an NSAID may provide better relief for migraine headaches than either medication alone.
  • Cardiovascular risk factors, high blood pressure, and other medications still matter when using Relpax.
  • A healthcare provider can help confirm safe use based on your medical history and migraine pattern.

What Are Relpax and Ibuprofen Used For?

Relpax is the brand name for eletriptan hydrobromide, a prescription medication in the triptan class used for the treatment of migraine headaches. Triptans act as serotonin receptor agonists, targeting receptors on blood vessels in the brain to reduce dilation and inflammation associated with migraine attacks.

Ibuprofen is an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever. Unlike triptans, NSAIDs do not target serotonin receptors or migraine-specific blood vessel pathways. Instead, ibuprofen reduces inflammation and pain signaling throughout the body.

Because these medications work in different ways, they are sometimes used together during acute migraine episodes.

Can You Take Relpax and Ibuprofen Together?

For most people, yes. Relpax and ibuprofen can generally be taken together safely, and this combination is commonly used in the treatment of migraine. There is no known direct drug interaction between eletriptan and ibuprofen.

Using both medications may help address different components of migraine pain. Relpax targets migraine-specific mechanisms involving blood vessels, while ibuprofen helps reduce inflammation and general pain.

However, combining medications should still follow medical advice, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other prescription drugs.

How to Take Them Safely

Relpax is typically taken as a first dose at the onset of migraine symptoms. If the migraine improves but returns, a second dose may be taken within a 24-hour period, as long as the maximum daily dose is not exceeded.

Ibuprofen can be taken at standard over-the-counter doses alongside Relpax. It is important not to exceed recommended ibuprofen dosing, as higher doses increase the risk of stomach pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney problems.

Some people take ibuprofen at the same time as Relpax, while others space them out by an hour or two. Either approach is generally acceptable unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

Blood Pressure and Heart Health Considerations

Relpax affects blood vessels and is not appropriate for everyone. It should be used cautiously or avoided in people with:

  • Coronary artery disease
  • Peripheral vascular disease (including ischemic bowel disease)
  • History of heart attack or angina
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension)

Ibuprofen can also raise blood pressure in some people, particularly with frequent use or higher doses. When combined, these effects make it especially important to monitor blood pressure and cardiovascular symptoms.

Chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual pressure after taking Relpax requires immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions to Avoid With Relpax

While ibuprofen is generally safe with Relpax, certain medications should not be taken close to eletriptan.

These include:

  • Ergotamine or ergot derivatives like dihydroergotamine (Migranal, Ergomar)
  • Other triptans such as sumatriptan (Imitrex), rizatriptan (Maxalt), zolmitriptan, naratriptan, frovatriptan, or almotriptan within 24 hours
  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole (Sporanox), itraconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir, nelfinavir (Viracept), and nefazodone

These drug interactions can increase eletriptan levels in the body and raise the risk of serious side effects, including coronary artery vasospasm and arrhythmias.

Serotonin Syndrome Risk

Relpax acts on serotonin receptors, so there is a small risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic medications. Ibuprofen does not affect serotonin levels and does not increase this risk.

However, people taking antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like duloxetine, tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as phenelzine should be aware of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome.

Symptoms may include agitation, rapid heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness, and confusion. Seek medical advice if these occur.

Side Effects to Watch For

Common side effects of Relpax may include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Chest discomfort
  • Stomach pain

Ibuprofen may cause:

  • Upset stomach
  • Heartburn
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Kidney irritation with frequent use

Serious side effects related to Relpax are rare but can be life-threatening, particularly in people with heart disease or multiple cardiovascular risk factors.

Migraine Types Where Relpax Is Not Recommended

Relpax should not be used in certain migraine types, including:

  • Basilar migraine
  • Hemiplegic migraine

People with these migraine forms may be at higher risk of complications related to blood vessel constriction. Ibuprofen alone may be used for pain relief, but migraine-specific treatment should be guided by a healthcare professional.

Supplements, Alcohol, and Lifestyle Factors

Supplements and herbal products can affect migraine frequency and medication safety. Always review supplements with your healthcare provider.

Alcohol can worsen migraine attacks and increase side effects like drowsiness. Drinking alcohol while taking ibuprofen can also raise the risk of stomach irritation.

When to Talk to a Healthcare Provider

You should seek medical advice if:

  • You need Relpax and ibuprofen frequently for migraine attacks
  • Migraine headaches are becoming more frequent or severe
  • You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats
  • You have high blood pressure, heart disease, or a strong family history of cardiovascular disease

A healthcare provider may recommend preventive migraine therapy or adjust your acute treatment plan.

Bottom Line

Relpax and ibuprofen can usually be taken together safely, and this combination may provide better relief for acute migraine attacks than either medication alone. While ibuprofen does not interact directly with eletriptan, Relpax still carries important cardiovascular and drug interaction considerations. Always follow dosing instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have underlying heart problems or other risk factors.

FAQs

Can I take ibuprofen at the same time as Relpax?
Yes, ibuprofen can generally be taken at the same time as Relpax. The two medications work through different mechanisms and do not have a known direct interaction.

Does combining Relpax and ibuprofen increase side effects?
For most people, combining these medications does not significantly increase side effects. However, drowsiness or stomach discomfort may still occur depending on individual sensitivity.

Is ibuprofen better than acetaminophen with Relpax?
Some people find NSAIDs like ibuprofen provide stronger anti-inflammatory relief than acetaminophen. Others prefer acetaminophen due to stomach or blood pressure concerns, so the choice depends on individual risk factors.

Should I avoid Relpax if I have heart disease?
Relpax is generally not recommended for people with coronary artery disease or certain heart conditions. A healthcare provider should evaluate whether triptans are safe for you.

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