Rizatriptan

Rizatriptan is a prescription medication that has been approved to relieve symptoms of migraine headaches. The medication works by causing blood vessels in the head to return to their normal state after dilating during a migraine. There are a number of possible side effects with this drug, including dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea.

Rizatriptan (Maxalt)

What Is Rizatriptan?

Rizatriptan benzoate (Maxalt^®) is a prescription medication that is used to treat migraine headaches. It will not help to prevent migraines, but it can help to treat a migraine that has already started.

A form of rizatriptan that will dissolve in the mouth (rizatriptan orally disintegrating tablets) is available and is especially helpful for people who have difficulty swallowing tablets during a migraine due to nausea or vomiting.

(Click What Is Rizatriptan Used For? for more information on what this product is used for, including possible off-label uses.)

Side Effects

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with rizatriptan. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.

Some of the most common side effects of rizatriptan include:

Dizziness
Drowsiness
Fatigue or weakness
Nausea
Abnormal sensations such as tingling, burning, or pricking (paresthesia)
Chest pain, including chest tightness, chest pressure, or chest heaviness
Dry mouth
Neck pain, jaw pain, or throat pain.

(Click Side Effects of Rizatriptan to learn about the specific side effects of this drug, including serious side effects to look out for. You can also read about other possible side effects by going to Maxalt and Heart Problems.)

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