A triptan for migraine · Written by the Lyng Pharmacy team, based on NHS and BNF guidance · Updated August 2026
Also sold asImigran, Imigran Recovery
Type of medicineTriptan (migraine treatment)
Available asTablets, nasal spray, injection
How you get itPharmacy for diagnosed migraine; also prescription
Sumatriptan treats a migraine attack rather than preventing one. Timing is everything: taken early in the headache phase it often stops an attack, and taken hours in it frequently does not. It is available from pharmacies for people with an established migraine diagnosis.
How and when to take it
Take one tablet as soon as the headache starts — not during the aura, and not once the attack is well established.
If it works but the headache returns later, a second dose can be taken after at least two hours. If the first dose does not work at all, a second dose for the same attack will not help either; take a different painkiller instead.
Maximum of two doses in 24 hours for pharmacy use. The nasal spray or injection may suit better if vomiting is part of your attacks.
Who should not take it
A history of heart attack, angina, stroke or mini-stroke
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Peripheral arterial disease
Hemiplegic, basilar or ophthalmoplegic migraine
Severe liver problems
Anyone over 65, or under 18, without medical advice
Anyone whose headaches have not been diagnosed as migraine
Tell us if you take an SSRI or SNRI antidepressant, or St John’s wort — there is a small risk of serotonin syndrome in combination. Do not take within 24 hours of ergotamine or another triptan.
Side effects and rebound headache
Tingling, warmth, flushing, a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the chest or throat, drowsiness and dizziness are common and usually brief.
Seek urgent help for chest pain or tightness that is severe or persists, or for weakness, numbness or slurred speech.
Using a triptan on 10 or more days a month can cause medication-overuse headache — daily headaches driven by the treatment itself. If you are reaching for one that often, come and talk to us or your GP about preventive treatment instead.
Always read the label. This page is general information, not advice for your situation. Doses, warnings and interactions differ between products and between people. Check the leaflet inside your medicine, and ask our pharmacist if anything is unclear — that conversation is free and takes two minutes.
Questions about Sumatriptan?
1 Lyng Lane, West Bromwich B70 7RW · Mon–Fri 8:30am–6pm, Sat 9am–1pm · 0121 500 5756
As soon as the headache starts — not during the aura, and not once the attack is well established. Early use is what makes the difference.
Can I take a second dose if the first did not work?
No. If the first dose does not work at all, a second will not either — use a different painkiller. A second dose is only for a headache that returns after responding.
Can I buy sumatriptan from a pharmacy?
Yes, for adults with an established migraine diagnosis, after a consultation. There are several conditions that rule it out, which is why we ask.
Can triptans cause more headaches?
Yes — using one on 10 or more days a month can cause medication-overuse headache. Preventive treatment is a better route if you need them that often.
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