Zomig (zolmitriptan) is a widely-used triptan medication for treatment of migraine headaches and the symptoms that often accompany migraines, such as auras, nausea and light or noise sensitivity. In faster-acting forms, such as nasal spray, it may also be used to ease cluster headache pain.

Zomig nasal spray, like other forms of Zomig, is an abortive treatment. It won't prevent a migraine or cluster headache from starting or reduce the frequency with which they occur, but it will stop a headache that has already begun.

Advantages of Zomig Nasal Spray:

The primary advantage of administering Zomig via nasal spray is speed -- it begins working in just 10 to 15 minutes, compared to 30 minutes when the medication is delivered by tablet. Patients are also less likely to experience nausea while using Zomig Nasal Spray.

For cluster headache sufferers, fast administration is imperative. Where regular tablets provide only marginal relief, fast-acting Zomig Nasal Spray can make a significant difference. The only faster relief is from injections, which begin working in 5 to 10 minutes.

Zomig Nasal Spray is Easy to Use:

Whether treating a migraine or a cluster headache, the medication works best when used at the earliest symptoms of a headache. Migraines are often preceded by auras or other painless symptoms; this is the ideal time to administer a dose. Cluster headaches seldom have warning signs before pain begins.

Administration is the same for both types of headache:
Each nasal spray device contains 1 dose, 5 mg of zolmitriptan.

• Remove the cap from the device.
• Insert the tip of the device into a nostril as far as feels comfortable.
• Hold the other nostril closed with a finger.
• Tip head back slightly.
• While inhaling gently through the nose, press the plunger on the device.
• Keep head tipped back for several minutes while breathing through the mouth.
• Relief should begin in 5 to 10 minutes. Effects peak after 2 hours, and begin wearing off after 4 hours.
• If the headache returns, or fails to completely go away, a second dose may be administered after 2 hours.
• Never take more than 2 doses, or 10 mg, of Zomig Nasal Spray in a 24 hour period.

There may be an odd taste in the mouth or a feeling of liquid in the back of the throat after using Zomig Nasal Spray. This is normal and will pass in a few moments.

Do not take different types of migraine medications at the same time without approval by a physician. This includes different forms of the same medication, such as Zomig tablets together with Zomig Nasal spray; the maximum safe doses are different. Too much of this type of medication can produce dangerous side effects.

Other Considerations:

Zomig provides only marginal relief for headaches other than migraines or cluster headaches. Though Zomig does provide some pain-blocking function, it's primary benefit results from constricting blood vessels in the brain which swell only during a migraine or cluster headache. It should not be used for:

• Hemiplegic or basilar  migraines
  
• Tension headaches
  
• Sinus headaches
  
• Rebound headaches
  
• Headaches caused by injury
  

Zomig Nasal Spray is effective for about 75% of users. Some individuals simply don't respond to treatment. In these cases, it's worth looking into alternative, similar medications; odds are good one can be found that will provide relief.

Side Effects:

Side effects are rare and typically much less severe than the discomfort caused by a headache:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Flushing
• Mild dizziness

Patients with serious medical conditions, such as heart, liver, or kidney disease, should speak with a doctor about potential complications prior to using Zomig Nasal Spray.

Zomig is a powerful medication. In case of overdose, emergency medical attention is warranted.