Amerge

(Naratriptan Hydrochloride)

The active ingredient in Amerge is naratriptan. It belongs to the drug class of triptans, also known as selective serotonin (5-HT1) receptor agonists. The mechanism of action involves narrowing blood vessels in the brain and reducing the release of substances that cause migraine pain. This helps relieve migraine symptoms such as headache pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Amerge. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Amerge:

• Amerge is taken by mouth as a tablet.
• Take the first dose as soon as migraine symptoms begin.
• If the migraine improves but returns, a second dose may be taken at least 4 hours after the first dose.
• Do not take more than the maximum daily dose prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not use Amerge to treat more than four migraine attacks in a 30-day period unless directed by a healthcare professional.
• Amerge should not be used for hemiplegic or basilar migraine.

Some mild or common side effects of Amerge include:

• Drowsiness.
• Lightheadedness.
• Fatigue.
• Nausea.
• Dry mouth.
• Constipation.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Amerge. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe stomach pain or bloody diarrhea may indicate ischemic bowel disease.
• Signs of a heart attack include chest pain (angina) spreading to the arm, neck, or jaw.
• Severe headache, different from usual migraine attacks.
• Heart rhythm problems that can lead to an irregular heartbeat and fainting.
• Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, fever, fast heartbeat, sweating, muscle stiffness, or confusion.
• Sudden and severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, constipation, and weight loss.
• Severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. Symptoms include hives, swelling of the face or throat, or shortness of breath.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Amerge. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Amerge, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Heart disease or coronary artery disease.
• Heart problems.
• High blood pressure or uncontrolled hypertension.
• High cholesterol.
• Peripheral vascular disease or Raynaud’s syndrome.
• A family history of heart attack, stroke, or TIA.
• Risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking or diabetes.
• Kidney or liver disease.
• A history of serotonin syndrome.
• Amerge may cause vasospasm, which can limit blood flow to the heart or other organs. Your healthcare provider may perform a heart evaluation before prescribing Amerge if you have risk factors for heart disease.

Amerge should not be used in individuals who have:

• Ischemic heart disease or a history of heart attack.
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
• Peripheral vascular disease.
• Ischemic bowel disease.
• History of stroke or transient ischemic attack.
• Hemiplegic or basilar migraine.
• Known hypersensitivity to naratriptan.

Amerge typically begins to relieve migraine symptoms within 1 to 3 hours after the first dose. Full relief may take longer in some individuals. Response time can vary depending on how early the medication is taken during a migraine attack.

When Amerge is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Ergot medicines like dihydroergotamine or ergotamine, which increase the risk of vasospasm.
• Other triptans, such as eletriptan, frovatriptan, zolmitriptan, almotriptan, sumatriptan, or rizatriptan, which increase cardiovascular risk.
• MAO inhibitors (MAOIs), which may increase naratriptan levels.
• SSRIs like fluoxetine, SNRIs like duloxetine, or other antidepressants that increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Amerge is available in the following dosage forms:

1 mg oral tablets.

2.5 mg oral tablets.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Amerge is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline.

Yes, Amerge is available as a generic medication under the name naratriptan hydrochloride.

Amerge is taken only as needed for migraine attacks. You do not need to taper the medication. Do not use Amerge more often than prescribed, as taking it frequently may lead to medication overuse headaches.

Limited data are available on the use of Amerge during pregnancy. It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before use, and notify your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while using Amerge.

It is not known whether naratriptan passes into breast milk during lactation or if it could harm a nursing baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks before using Amerge while breastfeeding.