Midrin (isometheptene mucate, dichloralphenazone and acetaminophen) for migraines : an introduction

Update: Midrin is no longer available in the US. Read Teri Robert’s article for most recent news and alternative treatments

Midrin for migraines is a combination of isometheptene mucate, dichloralphenazone and acetaminophen. It is used to treat migraines, but not for preventing migraines.

This prescription medication combines:

• isometheptene mucate, which constricts (narrows) brain vessels that have dilated (widened);
• dichloralphenazone, which is a sedative and a hypnotic (to relax the body); and
• acetaminophen, the active ingredient in many pain relievers, including Tylenol.

It is sold under various names including:

• Iso-Acetazone
• Isocom
• Isopap
• Midchlor
• Midrin
• Migratine
• Mitride
• Amidrine
• Duradrin

How Midrin for migraines works

Midrin is thought to narrow the blood vessels that may have widened causing migraine symptoms. It also prevents spasms and seizures. For more detailed information on Midrin’s mechanism of action see drugfx.com.

Forms of Midrin available

Oral capsule

Midrin dosing for migraines

Midrin is usually taken as soon as the migraine begins. Typically adults take two capsules, then can take one capsule every hour (up to five capsules in a 12-hour period) until the pain subsides.

For this medication, doctors often recommend stopping it gradually rather than suddenly stopping it.

Most common side effects of Midrin for migraines

• Dizziness
• Rash
• Drowsiness

Who should not take Midrin for migraine prevention

Midrin should not be taken by people who have kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure, physical heart defects or who have glaucoma. Also those patients who take antidepressants called MAO inhibitors should not take Midrin for migraines. Midrin should not be taken with alcoholic beverages. Women who are pregnant, become pregnant or may become pregnant should tell their doctors immediately before beginning Midrin.

As always, the best source for advice on preventing your migraines is your own migraine specialist. These medication descriptions are provided only for informational purposes. You should begin no medication regimen without first checking with your physician. Again, this information should in no way substitute or be mistaken for medical advice.

Written by: Otesa Miles / Reviewed by: John-Claude Krusz, PhD, MD | Last review date: November 2010. Click the References Link below for a complete list of references.

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