Relpax (eletriptan) is a vasoconstrictor in the triptan family of drugs. It is a highly-effective treatment in migraine headaches, alleviating pain, auras, nausea and other related symptoms once a headache has begun. It will not prevent a new headache from forming if taken when there are no symptoms. Relpax is also known by the brand name Relert.

This medication works by constricting blood vessels in the brain that, for unknown reasons, become swollen during a migraine or cluster headache attack. As the medication narrows these swollen vessels pain and other symptoms are alleviated. Relpax will not ease symptoms in other kinds of headaches.

Migraine Relief with Relpax

Relpax is available in 20 mg or 40 mg tablets. The standard dose is 40 mg; 20 mg doses are most often used in patients with mild migraines or those who have risk factors that make side effects more likely at higher doses. Note that 80 mg of this product should not be exceeded in 24 hours.

As with all triptans, relief is most significant when Relpax is taken at the first symptoms a migraine is starting. It may be taken with or without food. Treatment is typically as follows:

• Take one dose of Relpax at the earliest signs a headache is starting, be that pain or auras.
• If symptoms are not sufficiently alleviated, or the headache returns, a second dose may be taken after 2 hours.
• Always wait at least 2 hours between doses.
• Do not exceed 80 mg in a 24-hour period.

Most patients start to notice effects about 30 minutes after a dose is taken, and if taken at the early stages of a migraine the headache will often be aborted completely. Others find symptoms linger, but are still substantially alleviated. If unable to take Relpax at the start of a migraine it will still provide some relief, but most people find it is not quite as effective.

Because this medication is so time-sensitive it's important to have some on-hand---the midst of a debilitating migraine is not the ideal time to go to the pharmacy. As a general rule it's a good idea to restock when down to 2 doses. Don't go overboard, though; medications do start to lose effectiveness after they pass their expiration date.

Precautions & Drug Interactions

Most people use Relpax without any adverse effects. However, those who have certain medical conditions are at increased risk of serious complications. Because of this medication's vasoconstrictor properties, conditions involving impaired blood flow, blood pressure issues, heart problems, or patients at high risk of developing these conditions, are at risk of complications. Discuss risks carefully with a doctor before using Relpax if there is a history of:

• Any heart or blood vessel problems
• Severe or untreated hypertension
• Inadequate blood supply to the intestine (ischemic bowel disease)
• Any high risk factors for heart disease or stroke

It is not uncommon for patients to take painkillers and preventative migraine treatments along with Relpax, but it can interact with a number of other drugs and patients are strongly encouraged to check with a doctor or pharmacist before mixing any medications. Of greatest concern with this product are:

• SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs and some other antidepressants
• Medications containing ergotamine, another vasoconstrictor migraine treatment
• Other medications containing triptans
• St John’s Wort

The effects of Relpax on unborn or nursing babies is unclear; use should be avoided while pregnant or nursing unless explicitly instructed otherwise by a doctor.