Compare Imitrex vs. Frova

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Imitrex (Sumatriptan)

Prescription only

Frova (frovatriptan)

Prescription only
Treats migraine headaches.

Imitrex (Sumatriptan) is an excellent choice for acute migraine relief, but you might need another medication to prevent headaches.

3.9/ 5 average rating with 31 reviewsforImitrex
Treats migraine headaches.

Triptans are the first-choice to treat migraines. Frova (frovatriptan) works just as well as other triptans for migraines, but doesn't work for other types of headaches like cluster headaches.

Upsides
  • Comes in several forms. Ask your doctor if you should use the pill, nasal spray, patch, or injection.
  • A combination of forms can be used if symptoms do not improve.
  • The nasal spray and injectable forms work very quickly.
  • It's generally safe to use if you are pregnant.
  • Comes in a generic form, so it can be pretty cheap.
  • Frova (frovatriptan) is available in generic.
  • Unlike other similar medicines, you can take up to 3 tablets of Frova (frovatriptan) every 24 hours.
  • Frova (frovatriptan) is first choice of medicines for treatment of migraine headaches.
Downsides
  • The oral and nasal versions of Imitrex (Sumatriptan) have an unpleasant after-taste.
  • Does not prevent migraine headaches; it only treats them once they start.
  • Must wait 1 hour before using second injection.
  • Can cause rebound (more) headaches if Imitrex (Sumatriptan) is used too often.
  • Need to have your blood pressure checked often, especially if you're pregnant.
  • Available as an oral tablet only, which may be difficult to swallow during bad migraine attack.
  • Doesn't prevent migraines.
  • Doesn't work for other types of headaches like cluster headaches.
  • Not recommended for children under 18 years old.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Injection
  • Nasal spray
  • Pill
Price
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Reviews
31 reviews so far
74%
saidit'sworth it
68%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle

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Side effects
6possible side effects
  • Pain and other pressure sensations
    6%
  • Atypical sensations
    5%
  • Paresthesia (all types)
    3%
  • Sensation warm/cold
    3%
  • Pain - location specified
    2%
  • Malaise/fatigue
    2%
See more detailed side effects
10possible side effects
  • Dizziness
    8%
  • Fatigue
    5%
  • Headache
    4%
  • Tingling or prickling sensation
    4%
  • Flushing
    4%
  • Dry mouth
    3%
  • Hot or cold sensation
    3%
  • Muscle pain
    3%
  • Indigestion
    2%
  • Chest pain
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Tightening of blood vessels (myocardial angina, ischemia, or infarction)
    • History of heart problems
    • High blood pressure
    • High cholesterol
    • Diabetes
    • Being overweight or obese
    • Smoking
  • Stroke
    • History of heart problems
    • High blood pressure
    • High cholesterol
    • Diabetes
    • Being overweight or obese
    • Smoking
  • Stomach bleeding
  • Serotonin syndrome
    • Patients taking SSRIs and SNRIs
  • High blood pressure
    • History of high blood pressure
  • Seizures
    • History of seizures
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Heart attack
    • Heart disease
    • history of chest pain/angina
    • uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Stroke
    • History of a stroke
  • Medication overuse headache
    • Using Frova (frovatriptan) for more than 2 to 3 days a week or 10 days a month
  • Serotonin syndrome
    • Tricyclic antidepressants
    • Fentanyl
    • Tramadol
    • Buspirone
    • ADHD medicines
    • Triptans
  • Increased blood pressure
    • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Blood vessel issues
    • High blood pressure
    • history of stroke or heart attack
See more detailed risks and warnings