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        New Message Board Archives >> 2004-2005 Getting to Know Ya Posts >> How Much Imitrex?
        
(Message started by: Golfer on Feb 1^st, 2005, 7:13pm)

Title: How Much Imitrex?
Post by Golfer on Feb 1^st, 2005, 7:13pm

I am in my fifth week on this cycle of clusters. Taking Imitrex with each headache (have been having one in afternoon, late evening, and 2:00/3:00 Am). I have been cutting the Imitrex pills in half, but I an getting worried about taking too much. Also, not able to get enough pills for the extended bout! Is this safe?

Title: Re: How Much Imitrex?
Post by nani on Feb 1^st, 2005, 8:01pm

Hi Golfer, welcome. I'm afraid that I can't help you with Imitrex info. I'm unable to use it. I can suggest, however, a couple of alternatives. First, see if you can get your dr to prescribe Imitrex injections. They work much faster than the pills. Second, talk to him about using oxygen as an abortive. It's safer than any meds and has been effective for many of us. Look at the Oxygen Info link on the left...lots of info. I hope you get some relief soon. Pain free wishes, nani

Title: Re: How Much Imitrex?
Post by Kris_in_SJ on Feb 1^st, 2005, 8:36pm

Hi Golfer,

Welcome. I'm an Imitrex girl - the only thing that truly aborts my CHA's. But I've never found the pills to be helpful at all. In fact, most will tell you that the pills are WAAAAY too slow to work at aborting a cluster - though they seem to be better at aborting migraines. On average, it takes the pills at least 30 minutes to start their work.

The nasal spray is faster, but injects are the best. I've never gone more than 5 minutes without relief. The caution is that you shouldn't take over the recommended amount within 24 hours. For injects, that amount is 12mg. That's why many of us split the doses to 2-3mg per.

Also, if you are in cycle, are you taking any preventatives like Verapamil or other calcium channel-blockers? Prednisone? Just curious.

Kris