Therapeutic Classification: vascular headache suppressants
Pharmacologic Classification: five ht1 agonists
Absorption: Well absorbed (70%) following oral administration.
Distribution: Extensively distributed to tissues.
Metabolism/Excretion: Primarily metabolized in the liver. 60% excreted unchanged in urine; 30% metabolized by the liver.
Half-Life: 6 hr (↑ in renal impairment).
Contraindicated in:
Use Cautiously in:
- Mild to moderate renal impairment (dose should not exceed 2.5 mg/24 hr; initial dose should be ↓);
- Mild to moderate hepatic impairment (dose should not exceed 2.5 mg/24 hr; initial dose should be ↓);
- OB: Safety not established in pregnancy;
- Lactation: Safety not established in breastfeeding;
- Pedi: Safety and effectiveness not established in children;
- Geri: Age-related ↓ in renal function and ↑ likelihood of CAD greatly ↑ risk of fatal adverse events in older adults.
Exercise Extreme Caution in:
- Cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, cigarette smoking, obesity, diabetes, strong family history, menopausal women, or men >40 yr); use only if cardiovascular status has been evaluated and determined to be safe and 1st dose is administered under supervision.