Posted by Margaret G (204.233.96.150) on July 11, 1999 at 16:34:22:
In Reply to: Imitrex Frequency posted by ChrisNJ on July 10, 1999 at 17:19:15:
Chris, I was especially interested in your message as the point I'm coping with is how much medication to take. I'm back in a cycle after a 16 month remission. Went through the "warm up" beginning in March where Midrin would take care of the problem. By the last week in May I was reaching for Imitrix (inhalor). The inhalor does not seem to work as long for me as the shot or pill as I had recurrance in about 4 hours. My doctor gave me Zomig(Zolmitriptan) samples. I found they work a little faster and last (so far) at least 24 hours. Drawback is I'm pretty spacey for about 12 hours. It's a problem as I drive 17 miles each way to work.
For the record, I'm a 61 year old woman with 10 year history of CHA's. I have been diagnosed and receiving medical help for 4 years. Previously heard comments such as "women don't get cluster headaches". From a Doctor no less!
Back to frequency of medication... My doctor also told me about two weeks ago, the neurologist she consults with says no more than 3 a week.
Currently I've been getting through the first one a night with soft icepack, pacing and suffering.
The second I take Midrin (more pacing and suffering). If a third hits I take Imitrix or Zomig. I'm sweating it now because tomorrow is Monday, and I can only have one more Zomig between now and Friday if I stay on the schedule my doctor outlined.
Let me know if you find more generous guidelines, and the source so I can discuss them with my doctor.
I'll be thinking of all of you from 11PM to 6AM..except for an occasional night when I sleep.
Bless each of you.
Margaret G in Kansas