Nurtec Side Effects: What You Need to Know

When it comes to managing acute or episodic migraines (affecting over 35 million adult Americans), Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) is an effective treatment option. While the medication brings relief, it can also cause some side effects, ranging from mild to serious. Understanding all the possible side effects can help you use this treatment with safety. Let's explore the blog and learn about all the Nurtec side effects and tips to minimize them.

Key Nurtec Side Effects to be Aware of

Some individuals may experience mild or serious side effects while taking Nurtec ODT (rimegepant).

Common Side Effects

The following are the common side effects that are temporary and manageable:

• Nausea: The frequently reported effect that may occur for a short period after swallowing the dose. You can prevent it by taking the medication in a smaller dose or with food.

• Abdominal Pain: Some people taking the medication each day to prevent the migraine symptoms may experience temporary mild stomach pain. Having the medication with food and lying down after taking the medicine can help reduce pain.

• Indigestion: It comes with burping, bloating, or a feeling of fullness rapidly after you take it. These symptoms resolve on their own with time.

Note: If these stay for a longer period or bother you, see a doctor for effective ways to manage them.

Serious Side Effects

Sometimes, serious side effects can occur in rare cases. These can be severe and stay for a longer period and need to be managed quickly. Those effects include:

• Allergic Reactions: Some people might develop the symptoms of allergic reaction such as skin rashes, itchiness, flushing, swelling in the face, tongue, or throat, making it difficult to breathe, or swelling under the hands, eyelids, lips, or feet

• Liver Problems: Some people, especially those living with a history of liver disease can experience liver issues. Symptoms of liver issues may include dark urine, persistent stomach pain, or yellowing of the eyes or skin. Regular monitoring is very crucial for people at risk.

• Heart-Related Problems: Though rare, some people might experience heart-related issues like high blood pressure or fast heart rate. So, people with pre-existing heart conditions should be very careful.

Rare, Notable Side Effects

Although these side effects are rare, they need immediate attention:

• Vision Issues: In rare cases, people may develop blurred vision or any visual disturbance.

• Severe Headaches: In some cases, acute migraines might lead to rebound headaches or more severe migraine attacks.

• Dizziness: Some people may experience excessive dizziness or fainting, particularly while standing.

Important Note: If you experience any adverse side effects, see the doctor immediately. If symptoms are highly severe, call 911 or 1-800-222-1222. You can also report your symptoms to the FDA by contacting 800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Warnings and Precautions While Using Nurtec ODT (rimegepant)

Be mindful of these guidelines when using Nurtec (rimegepant):

• Don't take for chronic migraine: Nurtec is only FDA-approved for the treatment of acute migraines or prevention of episodic migraines. Don't use it for chronic migraine which is for more than 15 days in one month.

• Use as recommended: Take it as prescribed (75 mg which is 1 tablet in 24 hours); do not exceed the recommended dosage.

• Avoid if you're allergic: Do not use the medication if you are allergic to Nurtec or any of its ingredients. So, read the label carefully.

• Prefer liver and kidney safety: If you are living with pre-existing liver or kidney issues, avoid it as medication might build up in the system and may worsen the condition. So, always discuss it with your doctor.

• Be careful during pregnancy and breastfeeding: Not well-studied during pregnancy, so visit your gynecologist. You can also enroll in the Migraine Observational Nurtec Pregnancy Registry (MONITOR) which gathers information regarding the safety of Nurtec (in case you become pregnant during Nurtec treatment). Also, the medications can pass to breast milk and cause effects on the newborn but those effects aren't well-known. So, talk to your doctor.

• Don't overuse: Avoid frequent use of Nurtec as it might lead to rebound headaches. Seek medical help immediately or call 911 or 800-222-1222 in case someone takes too many doses.

• Discuss your medications: Inform your doctor if you're taking Fluconazole, Rifampin, Amiodarone, Ranolazine, ciprofloxacin, or any other medications, herbal products, or supplements. The drug interaction can reduce the effectiveness of the medication or worsen the symptoms.

• Be cautious about age: Nurtec is recommended for individuals above 18 years having migraine with or without aura. Older people above 65 years can safely take the medication under the guidance of a doctor.

Note: Always speak with the doctor for personalized advice to ensure the effective and safe use of the medication. 

How to Reduce the Side Effects of Nurtec ODT?

You can follow these steps to reduce the side effects of Nurtec:

• Consult with a Doctor: If you have a history of heart issues, severe allergies, or liver disease, seek guidance from a doctor before using Nurtec.

• Take with Food: To prevent nausea or stomach discomfort, take it with a meal or snack.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking a lot of water the entire day as it helps reduce the risk of dizziness, nausea, and dry mouth.

• Follow Prescribed Dosage: Always take the prescribed dosage to lower the chances of rebound headaches or other side effects.

• Adjust Timing: If you often experience dizziness or fatigue after taking the medication, have it in the evening when you are going to bed.

• Avoid Alcohol: In certain cases, alcohol might increase the chances of side effects like dizziness or liver strain, so avoid or limit alcohol with Nurtec.

• Monitor Your Health: Keep track of any new symptoms and report them to your doctor, especially if they interfere with your daily life.

• Take Rest: If you experience fatigue or dizziness, take a rest and allow your body to recover.

• Regular Check-Ups: If you have had kidney or liver issues, keep a watch over your health by visiting the doctor who can help detect the signs early.

• Inform Your Doctor: If any side effects worsen or persist, speak with your doctor. They might adjust the dosage or prescribe other treatment options.

Final Thoughts

Though well-tolerated, Nurtec side effects- from mild to severe can occur during the treatment. Those side effects may include nausea, abdominal pain, indigestion, or allergic reactions. Hence, you need to follow the prescribed dose, monitor the symptoms, and report the adverse effects immediately to the doctor. The healthcare providers will help adjust the dosage or provide alternative options for better health.

If you have any concerns or doubts when deciding whether Nurtec is the right choice or not, see a doctor for personalized advice. 

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only. Always consult a medical professional before using any medicine in case of serious problems.