Side Effects of Rizatriptan

As with any medication, there are potential side effects with rizatriptan. Some common side effects of rizatriptan include fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Most people, however, tolerate the medication well. In many cases, side effects are minor and may easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. If you experience more serious side effects -- such as severe chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, or bloody diarrhea -- be sure to report them to your healthcare provider.

Side Effects of Rizatriptan: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with rizatriptan benzoate (Maxalt®). However, not everyone who takes rizatriptan will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate rizatriptan well. When people do develop rizatriptan side effects, in most cases they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(The side effects discussed below are not a complete list of the side effects reported with rizatriptan. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of rizatriptan side effects with you.)
 

Common Rizatriptan Side Effects

Rizatriptan has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to the side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. Based on these studies, some of the most common side effects of rizatriptan include:
 
  • Dizziness -- up to 9 percent of people
  • Drowsiness -- up to 8 percent of people
  • Fatigue or weakness -- up to 7 percent of people
  • Nausea -- up to 6 percent of people
  • Abnormal sensations such as tingling, burning, or pricking (paresthesia) -- up to 4 percent of people
  • Chest pain, including chest tightness, chest pressure, or chest heaviness -- up to 3 percent of people
  • Dry mouth -- up to 3 percent of people
  • Neck pain, jaw pain, or throat pain -- up to 2 percent of people.
     

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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