Relpax (Eletriptan)

What is Relpax?

Relpax is a headache medicine that belongs to a class of drugs called triptans.

What is Relpax used for?

Relpax is indicated for the treatment of migraines. It helps relieve headache, nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. However, it is to be noted that the medicine only treats a headache that has already started and does not prevent future migraines or reduce the frequency of headaches.

How does Relpax work?

Relpax works by blocking pain pathways in the brain. It helps blood vessels in the brain to return to normal size.

How to use Relpax

Relpax should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer period or in larger amount than recommended can cause health problems.

The medicine is usually taken with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. It is advisable to take it at the first sign of a migraine. After taking the medicine, if your headache goes away and comes back, or does not go at all, take the second dose after 2 hours. Do not take any more doses without consulting your doctor.

Relpax warnings and precautions

Do not use Relpax if you are allergic to eletriptan or if you have taken another migraine headache medicine or ergot medicine in the past 24 hours. Also, the medicine is not to be taken by people who have severely high and uncontrolled blood pressure, ischemic bowel disease, problems with blood circulation, severe liver disease, a history of angina pain or heart disease (including heart attack and stroke).

Prior to taking Relpax, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorder or coronary artery disease.

Pregnant women should not take this medicine without consulting their doctors. Lactating women, too, are advised to not take Relpax as it is known to pass through the breast milk and may affect a nursing baby.

The medication should not be administered to children below 18 years of age.

What do I do if I have missed a Relpax dose?

Relpax is used as needed. Since you are not on a dosing schedule, you are unlikely to miss a dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Relpax overdose?

If you have taken a Relpax overdose, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Relpax interactions

Before taking Relpax, tell your doctor if you use propranolol or antidepressants.

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use including some mineral or vitamin supplements that you may be using. Also, do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Relpax side effects

Relpax side effects include hives, breathing trouble, sudden numbness, weakness, chest pain, nausea, bloody diarrhea, severe stomach ache, increased sweating, sudden headache, confusion, fast heart rate, severe stomach ache, bloody diarrhea, tingly feeling, pale or blue-colored appearance in fingers or toes; problems with speech, vision and balance; swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat, and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Relpax, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor right away.

Drowsiness, dizziness, stomach ache or cramps, mild headache, dry mouth, weakness, pain or pressure in neck/ throat, stomach upset, and feeling of warmth or tingling under the skin are some less serious side effects of Relpax.