Ever found yourself hesitating before taking a migraine pill because you feared the side effects? You’re not alone. For millions dealing with acute migraine episodes, fast relief matters. Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) offers that relief.
But like any medication, it comes with its own set of effects, some mild, some rare, and a few worth watching out for.
This blog uncovers what you need to know about Nurtec side effects.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Nurtec and How Does It Work?
Nurtec ODT is a quick-dissolution tablet. It works by blocking CGRP, a protein that helps trigger migraine pain. By stopping this protein, Nurtec calms the nerves and eases the inflammation that leads to headaches. It’s used in two ways:
To stop a migraine attack as it starts
To prevent episodic migraines
Less than 1% of people using this medication experienced reactions like rash or shortness of breath, still, it’s important to stay alert.
This drug doesn’t act like traditional painkillers. It goes after the source of migraine signals. That’s why it’s effective for many, but also why side effects may happen.
6 Common Nurtec Side Effects and How to Manage Them
1. Nausea
Nausea is the most common side effect. Sometimes it happens due to the drug. Other times, the migraine itself is to blame.
How to manage it:
Take Nurtec with a light snack
Sip cold water after swallowing
Ask your doctor for anti-nausea options
The nausea usually fades within an hour. If it stays, your doctor might suggest switching your dose timing.
2. Abdominal Pain
Some patients report mild stomach aches, especially when taking Nurtec regularly for prevention.
What to do:
Never take Nurtec on an empty stomach
Lie down for a while after taking it
Use a warm compress if the pain lingers
Persistent pain is rare. But if it gets worse, talk to your provider.
3. Indigestion
Feeling too full or bloated quickly? You’re not imagining it. Nurtec can slow digestion for a bit.
Tips that help:
Avoid heavy meals before the tablet
Walk around after meals to ease digestion
Drink ginger tea; many patients find this helpful
It should settle in a day or two as your system adjusts.
4. Allergic Reactions
Mild ones may include rashes or itchiness. Rarely, swelling of the face, lips, or throat might occur.
Emergency signs include:
Trouble breathing
Rash with fever
Face puffiness or a tight chest
Even though it affects less than 1% of users, allergic reactions need quick action. Don’t wait. Call 911 or visit the ER.
5. Liver Issues
Because Nurtec is processed by the liver, people with liver conditions may accumulate more of the drug.
Watch for:
Yellowing skin or eyes
Dark-colored urine
Long-lasting stomach pain
Always share your medical history with your doctor. Routine blood tests may be suggested.
6. Heart-Related Problems
Nurtec may trigger mild heart rate changes in sensitive individuals.
If you have:
Fast heartbeat
Chest pressure
History of heart disease
Let your doctor monitor you. Avoid combining Nurtec with drugs like amiodarone or ranolazine.
Rare, Notable Side Effects
Although these side effects are rare, they need immediate attention:
Blurred vision or flashes of light
Dizziness or feeling faint, especially while standing
Worsening headaches if used too often
These side effects often mean the dose or timing needs to change. Don't ignore them.
Nurtec Side Effects: A Quick Recap
Side Effect | Frequency | Suggested Step |
Nausea | Common | Take with food or ask for meds |
Abdominal pain | Sometimes | Rest post-dose |
Indigestion | Occasionally | Light meals, hydration |
Rash or itchiness | Rare | See provider |
Liver concerns | Rare | Get blood tests if needed |
Heart rate issues | Very rare | Check for drug interactions |
Precautions You Should Always Keep in Mind
1. Take It Only When Needed
Nurtec is not for chronic migraines. It’s only for acute relief or episodic prevention. Don’t pop it like candy.
2. Don’t Double Up Doses
One dose in 24 hours is the rule. More won’t work faster. It can backfire and make things worse.
3. Skip If You’re Allergic
If you've had reactions to similar drugs, tell your provider before starting.
4. Be Careful With Liver or Kidney Issues
These organs help flush the drug. If they’re not strong, Nurtec can build up in your system.
5. Don’t Self-Treat During Pregnancy
Nurtec hasn’t been studied enough during pregnancy. Your doctor will guide you.
6. Be Watchful While Breastfeeding
Nurtec can pass through milk. We don’t know how it affects newborns. Always talk to your pediatrician.
Best Ways To Avoid Nurtec Side Effects
Stick to a Schedule. Don't guess. Follow the dosage.
Use With Food Even though it's an oral-dissolve tablet, a little food can help the stomach.
Track Your Symptoms Use a migraine diary. Note when you take Nurtec and how you feel afterward.
Stay Hydrated. Dehydration makes nausea worse. Keep water nearby.
Talk Before Mixing Meds If you're on heart, liver, seizure, or infection drugs, check first.
Who Should Not Take Nurtec?
Nurtec is safe for most adults over 18. But avoid it if:
You’re pregnant and haven’t talked to your doctor
You have severe liver or kidney conditions
You’re already using CGRP medications daily
You’ve had allergic reactions to it before
Elderly patients above 65 can use it too, but with proper guidance.
What to Do in Case of Overdose?
Overuse doesn’t mean more relief. It might bring on:
Headache rebound
Stomach upset
Dizziness
Call your provider. Or if it’s serious, call poison control at 1-800-222-1222.
Final Thoughts
Nurtec is reliable. It eases migraine pain for many who struggle every month. But knowing what to expect helps make it even safer.
Though well-tolerated, Nurtec side effects, from mild to severe, like nausea, stomach ache, or allergies, may occur, but they're usually short-lived. Stick to the dose. Eat something before the pill. Keep your doctor in the loop.
Don’t let fear hold you back. With the right approach, Nurtec can be part of your migraine management.
अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्नों
What to avoid when taking Nurtec?
Avoid grapefruit juices, cyclosporine, amiodarone, anti-seizure medications, and supplements like St. John's wort with Nurtec as they can make Nurtec less effective.
Does Nurtec cause long-term side effects?
No, it doesn't cause long-term effects. Nausea can resolve once the body gets adjusted to the medication.
Can Nurtec cause weight gain?
No, Nurtec does not lead to weight gain. Other medications such as divalproex or amitriptyline used to prevent migraine headaches can increase weight.
Does Nurtec cause constipation?
No, constipation is not the side effect of Nurtec. It can occur due to other reasons such as other medications.
Will Nurtec make you sleepy?
No, sleepiness is not a side effect of Nurtec. Other medications like triptans or ubrogepant (to treat migraine) or divalproex or amitriptyline (to prevent migraine) can make you sleepy.
Does Nurtec raise blood pressure?
No, this medication doesn't raise blood pressure. High blood pressure can be the side effects of other medications like sumatriptan used to treat migraines.
Can Nurtec trigger a rebound headache if used too often?
Yes. Taking it more than prescribed can lead to rebound migraines. Always wait at least 24 hours between doses.
Can I take Nurtec alongside birth control pills?
Yes. There’s no known interaction between Nurtec and oral contraceptives.
Does Nurtec interact with caffeine or energy drinks?
Caffeine doesn’t cancel out Nurtec. But high caffeine may worsen nausea. Use in moderation.
What if I miss a preventive dose of Nurtec?
Skip it. Don’t double up the next day. Just return to your schedule and talk to your doctor if this happens often.
लेखक
