What are the side effects of Maxalt (Rizatriptan)?

From the Guidelines

Rizatriptan, a medication used to treat migraine headaches, can cause several side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting 1. Less common but more serious side effects may include chest pain, tightness, or heaviness in the chest, throat, or jaw, as well as numbness or tingling in the face, arms, or legs 1.

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Less Common Side Effects

• Chest pain
• Tightness or heaviness in the chest, throat, or jaw
• Numbness or tingling in the face, arms, or legs It is recommended to take rizatriptan at a dose of 5-10mg, as needed, and not to exceed 30mg in a 24-hour period 1. Patients should be cautious when taking rizatriptan, especially if they have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or stroke 1. It is also important to note that rizatriptan can interact with other medications, such as ergotamines, MAOIs, and SSRIs, and may worsen certain conditions, such as hypertension and coronary artery disease 1. If side effects occur, patients should consult their healthcare provider for further guidance.

From the FDA Drug Label

Rizatriptan benzoate tablets may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you think you are having any of the serious side effects of rizatriptan benzoate tablets including: Heart attack Stroke. Blood vessel problems Serotonin syndrome. The most common side effects of rizatriptan benzoate tablets in adults include: Feeling sleepy or tired Pain or pressure in your chest or throat Dizziness

The possible side effects of Maxalt (Rizatriptan) include:

• Serious side effects:
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Blood vessel problems
  • Serotonin syndrome
• Common side effects:
  • Feeling sleepy or tired
  • Pain or pressure in your chest or throat
  • Dizziness 2, 2, 2

From the Research

Side Effects of Maxalt (Rizatriptan)

The side effects of Maxalt (Rizatriptan) are generally mild and transient. According to the studies, the most common side effects include:

• Dizziness 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
• Weakness 4
• Fatigue 4, 5, 6, 7
• Nausea 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
• General digestive complaints 5
• General neurological complaints 5
• Somnolence 5, 6, 7
• Asthenia 5, 6, 7
• Pain and pressure sensations 5
• Chest pain (reported by 1 to 3% of rizatriptan recipients) 5, 6, 7

Comparison with Other Medications

Rizatriptan has been compared with other medications, such as sumatriptan, zolmitriptan, and naratriptan, in terms of side effects. The studies suggest that:

• Rizatriptan has a similar incidence of adverse events as sumatriptan 5
• Rizatriptan has a lower incidence of adverse events than zolmitriptan 6, 7
• Rizatriptan has a higher incidence of adverse events than naratriptan 6, 7