Compare Relpax vs. Imitrex

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

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Relpax (eletriptan)

Prescription only

Imitrex (Sumatriptan)

Prescription only
Treats migraine headaches.

Relpax (eletriptan) is a first choice medicine to treat migraines, but it can be expensive.

Treats migraine headaches.

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

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3.9/ 5 average rating with 31 reviewsforImitrex
Upsides
  • Relpax (eletriptan) works as well as other first choice medicines for migraines.
  • Relpax (eletriptan) comes in 2 different strengths.
  • 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.
Downsides
  • Relpax (eletriptan) is only available as a brand name.
  • Relpax (eletriptan) can cause dizziness and might make you more likely to fall.
  • If you have more than 3 migraines a month, Relpax (eletriptan) isn't a good choice because of its side effects.
  • 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.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Pill
  • Injection
  • Nasal spray
Price
Lowest price
$23.30
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Lowest price
$10.99
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Reviews
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31 reviews so far
74%
saidit'sworth it
68%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle

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Side effects
8possible side effects
  • Nausea
    4%
  • Headache
    4%
  • Weakness
    4%
  • Tingling or prickling sensation
    3%
  • Dizziness
    3%
  • Sleepiness
    3%
  • Flushing
    2%
  • Dry mouth
    2%
See more detailed 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
Risks and risk factors
  • Heart attack and rhythm problems
    • Heart rhythm problems
    • History of chest pain
    • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Stroke
    • History of a stroke
  • Medication overuse headache
    • Using Relpax (eletriptan) for more than 10 days a month
  • Serotonin syndrome
    • Tricyclic antidepressants
    • Fentanyl
    • Tramadol
    • Buspirone
    • ADHD medicines
    • Triptans
  • Higher blood pressure
    • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Blood vessel issues
    • High blood pressure
    • History of stroke
    • History of heart attack
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • 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
Learn more about Relpax (eletriptan)
Learn more about Imitrex (Sumatriptan)