Rizatriptan – the fast one
Rizatriptan (Maxalt) is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with maximum drug levels reaching their peak within one hour. The substance constricts blood vessels in the meninges without significantly affecting coronary arteries, pulmonary vessels, or other blood vessels. For example, rizatriptan has a considerably weaker effect on the coronary arteries compared to sumatriptan. The active ingredient blocks neurogenic inflammation in the meningeal vessels and can reduce the excessive activity of nerve centers in the central nervous system that transmit pain signals during a migraine attack.
Rizatriptan is available as tablets in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths, as well as orally disintegrating tablets in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths. The active ingredient is not absorbed through the oral mucosa, so the orally disintegrating tablets should also be swallowed with sufficient water.
Special features at a glance
- Rizatriptan is absorbed very quickly in the gastrointestinal tract.
- The maximum therapeutic level is reached within one hour. Therefore, significant relief from headaches is achieved within just 30 minutes.
- In up to 77 percent of patients, migraine headaches improve within two hours after taking 10 mg of rizatriptan.
- 44 percent of the treated patients are completely pain-free after two hours.
- Nausea and vomiting are also significantly improved by rizatriptan.
- Recurrent headaches occur in about one-third of patients. Compared to previous therapies, patients treated with rizatriptan report significantly better results.
- Regarding potential side effects, no serious adverse drug reactions were observed. No ECG changes were noted. The frequency of chest pain during treatment with rizatriptan was comparable to that of treatment with a placebo. Therefore, rizatriptan exhibits an exceptionally favorable profile in terms of clinical efficacy and tolerability.