Indications 

Axert is a prescription medication used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks in two groups: adults with a history of migraine with or without aura and adolescents aged 12-17 years with a similar history and a typical attack lasting for 4 hours or more. 

Categorized under the triptan class of drugs, Axert works by constricting cerebral blood vessels, inhibiting the transmission of pain signals, and impeding the release of endogenous substances that elicit migraine symptoms, such as pain and nausea. However, it does not prevent migraines or reduce headache frequency. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Axert and every time you get a refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or clarifications. 

Axert dosage is determined based on the patient’s medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications being taken. 

Typically, Axert is taken promptly at the onset of a migraine headache. A second tablet may be taken if symptoms improve but recur after 2 hours or more. However, if symptoms persist after the initial dose, a doctor should be consulted before taking a second tablet. Daily intake should not go beyond 25 mg. 

Follow the exact instructions for taking Axert and avoid taking it excessively or more frequently than your doctor prescribes. Contact your doctor if your headaches do not improve or become more frequent after taking this medication. 

Taking Axert for longer than recommended or more frequently may worsen your headaches. Avoid using Axert or any headache medication for over ten days per month. Contact your doctor if you require Axert to manage more than four headaches within 30 days. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Axert. If any of them last or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Dry mouth 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation 
• Dizziness 
• Drowsiness 
• Mild headache (not a migraine) 

Serious Side Effects 

• Lack of sensation or a prickling sensation, as well as a pale or bluish coloration, in fingers or toes 
• Signs of blood circulation problems: 
  • Weakness or heavy feeling in your legs 
  • Burning pain in your feet 
  • Leg cramps 
  • Hip pain 
  • Numbness or tingling in your legs 
• Indications of high levels of serotonin in the body 
  • Agitation 
  • Hallucinations 
  • Fever 
  • Fast heart rate 
  • Overactive reflexes 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Loss of coordination 
  • Fainting 
• Signs of stomach or intestinal problems: 
  • Severe stomach pain (especially after eating) 
  • Fever 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Constipation 
  • Bloody or tarry stools 

Stop taking Axert and call your doctor at once if you experience any of the above-mentioned severe side effects. 

Discontinue Axert use immediately and seek emergency medical attention if symptoms of a heart attack occur, including: 

• Chest pain or pressure spreading to the jaw or shoulder 
• Nausea 
• Sweating 
• Lightheadedness 

Allergic Reactions 

A severe allergic reaction to Axert is uncommon. However, seek emergency medical attention if you exhibit signs of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Axert. Inform your doctor if other side effects not listed above are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before taking Axert, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to almotriptan, other triptan migraine drugs, any other medications, or any ingredients present in Axert tablets. 

Prior to taking this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor, specifically any past instances of: 

• Impaired blood circulation (for instance, in your legs, arms/hands, or stomach) 
• Specific types of headaches (hemiplegic or basilar migraine) 
• Heart problems (like chest pain, irregular heartbeat, previous heart attack) 
• Stroke or “mini-stroke” (transient ischemic attack (TIA)) 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 

Inform your physician about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products, to minimize the possibility of drug interactions that could impact Axert’s efficacy or raise the likelihood of adverse effects. 

To reduce the risk of serious side effects, separate your Axert dose from ergotamine medication (such as dihydroergotamine) or other “triptan” drugs (such as zolmitriptan, rizatriptan) and ask your doctor about the recommended wait time between doses. 

Co-administration of other drugs that increase serotonin, such as certain street drugs, antidepressants, and St. John’s wort, can heighten the risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity. The likelihood of this condition may increase when initiating or augmenting the dosage of these drugs. 

Axert can cause dizziness or drowsiness, and alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can exacerbate these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in any activity that requires attentiveness until you can do so safely. Limit alcohol consumption and consult your doctor if you use marijuana (cannabis). 

The use of Axert during pregnancy should be considered only if the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider prior to intake. 

The excretion of almotriptan in human milk is uncertain. Seek the advice of a healthcare provider before taking this medication if nursing an infant.