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 of Zomig?
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
Serious side effects
Rarely, Zomig may cause serious side effects. These include:2
- Heart attack
- Increased blood pressure
- Stroke
- Changes in heart rhythm
- Problems with blood circulation
- Serious allergic reactions
- Stomach problems
Signs of serious side effects include:2,3
- Severe pain, tightness, pressure, or heaviness in the chest, throat, neck, or jaw that does not go away
- Slurring of speech
- Sudden weakness or numbness
- Changes in color to the fingers or toes (like paleness or a bluish tint)
- Allergic reactions, such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the eyes, face, lips, or throat
- Severe stomach pain
- Constipation or diarrhea
If you experience serious side effects with Zomig, seek immediate medical attention.2
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.
Things to know about Zomig
Before using Zomig, talk to your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially the following:2
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Liver problems
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Personal or family history of heart disease or stroke
- History of circulation problems, like varicose veins, blood clots, Raynaud’s disease, or ischemic bowel disease
- Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed
- Being past menopause
- Taking medicine for depression
Who shouldn't use Zomig?
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.
