Zomig (zolmitriptan)

Zomig^® (zolmitriptan) is a medicine used to treat migraines in adults. It is a type of drug called a serotonin receptor agonist. Zomig provides symptom relief, but it does not prevent future migraines.^1,2

Zomig was first approved as a swallowable tablet. It is now also available in a dissolving tablet (Zomig ZMT) and as a nasal spray. The tablets and dissolving tablets are available in generic forms under the name zolmitriptan.^3,4

What are the ingredients in Zomig?

The active ingredient in Zomig is zolmitriptan.²

How does Zomig work?

Zomig is classified as a triptan. This means it specifically targets (5‑HT)1B/1D serotonin receptors. The zolmitriptan in Zomig binds (sticks) to these receptors. Researchers believe that Zomig works by binding to these receptors in neurons (nerve cells) and on blood vessels in the brain. This causes the blood vessels to constrict and blocks chemicals that would increase inflammation.^1,2

Zomig also reduces substances that trigger head pain and may be involved in migraine, such as nausea, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound. Zomig works best when it is taken at the first sign of a migraine. It does not prevent a migraine or reduce the number of migraines you have.^2,3

Zomig can be used for migraines with or without aura. Aura is the visual or sensory symptoms some people with migraines experience before the head pain.²

What are the possible side effects?

Tablet side effects

The most common side effects of Zomig tablets include:³

• Pain, tightness, or pressure in the neck, throat, or jaw
• Dizziness
• Tingling
• Weakness or lack of energy
• Sleepiness
• Feeling warmth or cold
• Nausea
• Heaviness sensation
• Dry mouth

Nasal spray side effects

The most common side effects of Zomig nasal spray include:²

• Unusual taste
• Tingling
• Dizziness
• Skin sensitivity, especially the skin around the nose

These are not all the possible side effects of Zomig. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Zomig. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Zomig.

Other things to know

Before starting treatment with Zomig, tell your doctor if you have:²

• High blood pressure or high cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Liver problems
• Obesity
• Smoking
• A personal or family history of heart disease or stroke
• A history of circulation problems, like varicose veins, blood clots, Raynaud’s disease, or ischemic bowel disease
• Gone through menopause
• Depression

There is not enough data to know if Zomig is safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding. Before starting treatment with Zomig, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. They can help you decide if Zomig is right for you.²

People with any of the following health conditions should not use Zomig or zolmitriptan:²

• History of heart disease or coronary artery vasospasm
• Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome or other cardiac accessory conduction pathway disorders
• History of stroke, transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke), or hemiplegic or basilar migraine
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Ischemic bowel disease
• Allergy or sensitivity to zolmitriptan

People taking certain medicines should not use Zomig, including:²

• Recent use (within 24 hours) of another selective serotonin receptor agonist or another triptan
• Recent use of an ergotamine-containing medication
• Use of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) inhibitor in last 14 days

Before beginning treatment for migraine, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

For more information, read the full prescribing information of Zomig.