Migrafen

Indications

Pizotifen is used to prevent migraine and cluster headache attacks in people who have them often. It does not stop an attack that has already started. Doctors sometimes also prescribe it to improve poor appetite.

How It Works

It blocks serotonin and histamine, natural chemicals that are thought to play a part in the blood vessel changes behind migraine. Taken every day, it makes attacks less frequent and less severe.

Dosage and Administration

Adults: usually start with 0.5 mg at night and increase slowly, as advised by the doctor, to a usual dose of 1.5 mg a day, taken as one dose at night or divided through the day. The doctor may go higher in some cases. Children: as prescribed. It may take several weeks to see the full benefit. Do not stop suddenly after long use; the doctor will reduce the dose gradually.

Interactions

• Alcohol, sleeping pills, sedating antihistamines (such as Chlorpheniramine), and medicines for anxiety or pain that cause drowsiness can increase sleepiness.
• It may reduce the effect of some blood pressure medicines.

Contraindications

Allergy to pizotifen or any ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

Common: drowsiness, increased appetite and weight gain, dizziness, tiredness, dry mouth, nausea and constipation. Less often: low mood, anxiety, muscle pain or tingling. Children may become restless or excitable.

Get urgent medical help for:

• Swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash.
• Fits (seizures).
• Yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine.
• Severe low mood or thoughts of harming yourself.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Avoid in pregnancy unless the doctor considers it essential. It passes into breast milk, so it is not recommended while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

• Tell the doctor about glaucoma, difficulty passing urine (for example an enlarged prostate), kidney disease or epilepsy.
• It often causes drowsiness, especially at the start; do not drive or use machines if affected. Avoid alcohol.
• Watch your weight and eat sensibly, as appetite usually increases.
• Stopping suddenly after long use can cause low mood, shakiness, nausea or anxiety.

Overdose

Signs include severe drowsiness, dizziness, low blood pressure, fast heartbeat, fits (especially in children) and loss of consciousness. Get emergency medical help.

Therapeutic Class

Serotonin antagonist for migraine prevention (with antihistamine effects).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.