Imigran Nasal Spray is used to treat migraine headaches, which are caused by a temporary widening of blood vessels in the head. Migraines can be uncomfortable and painful for the sufferer, and they tend to be much worse than a normal headache.

Migraine symptoms will vary from person to person, but will usually include a throbbing headache, nausea or vomiting, a sensitivity to light and sound.

The underlying causes of migraines are unknown, but many people find that certain foods or physiological factors will trigger them. Stress, tiredness and hunger can play a role, as can certain foods and drinks like red wine, cheese or dark chocolate.

How does Imigran Nasal Spray work?

Imigran contains the active ingredient sumatriptan which works by reducing the widening of blood vessels, thereby relieving the symptoms of migraine. Imigran Nasal Spray should be sprayed into the nostrils as soon as you notice the first symptoms of your migraine, or at any point during the attack. It cannot be used beforehand or to prevent an attack.

Dosage

Each spray of Imigran Nasal Spray contains one single dose of the medicine. Always follow the directions for dosage given to you by your prescribing nurse, pharmacist or doctor.

Otherwise, the usual doses are as follows:

• for adults aged 18 to 65: one 10-20mg spray into one nostril
• for children aged 12 to 17: one 10 - 20mg spray into one nostril

You should not exceed two (20mg) sprays in 24 hours, and children under 12 and adults over 65 should not use Imigran Nasal Spray.

How is Imigran Nasal Spray taken?

Each Imigran Nasal Spray contains one single dose of the medicine. Each spray comes in three parts: the nozzle (which you insert into your nostril), the finger-grip (which you grip onto with your thumb when using the spray) and a blue plunger (which you press to release the whole dose of spray into your nostril).

Only press the plunger once you have the nozzle inserted comfortably into your nostril and are ready, with a finger pressed firmly on the side of your other nostril to block it. If you have a cold or a blocked nose, make sure to blow your nose properly before you use the spray.

Breathe out gently through your mouth, holding your head back and closing your mouth. Start to breathe in gently through your nose and, as you breathe in, press the blue plunger slowly but firmly with your thumb and release the full dose of spray into your nose. Once finished, remove the spray from your nostril and dispose of it.

Your nose may feel slightly wet and you might get a funny taste in your mouth for a while after using the spray. This is normal and does not mean the spray has not worked.

The active ingredient in Imigran Nasal Spray is sumatriptan at a strength of 10mg or 20mg.

The other ingredients are: dibasic sodium phosphate anhydrous, dihydrogen phosphate, sodium hydroxide, sulphuric acid and purified water.

As with all medicines, it is possible that you will experience some side effects as a result of using Imigran Nasal Spray. Report any side effects that aren’t listed below to your prescribing nurse, pharmacist or doctor.

Very common side effects (affecting more than 1 in 10):

• a funny or unpleasant taste in the back of the throat
• nosebleed

Common side effects (affecting up to 1 in 10):

• pressure, tightness or a pain in the throat, chest or other parts of the body
• tingly, unusual sensations (hot or cold) or numbness in different parts of the body

These side effects are usually intense for a while but pass very quickly. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms persist or become severe (particularly the chest pain) as, in extremely rare cases, this can be the sign of a heart attack.

Very rare effects (affecting up to 1 in 1,000):

• a change in your liver function (tell your prescribing nurse or doctor if you have a blood test to check your liver function)