Dr. Robbins Says….

Several new triptans (Imitrex-type meds) have come on the market in the past year and a half;  Axert (almotriptan) came out 1.5 years ago, and more recently Frova.  There are pluses and minuses to each.

Axert is relatively mild, with very few chest symptoms;  it is well tolerated, but does not always pack the impact (work as well) as Imitrex.  Frova is longer-lasting, with a half-life of 26 hours, which can be both good and bad.  I will explain more about Frova later.  Frova is mild, takes longer (up to 2 hours) to work, and is good for longer-developing,  slower onset, more moderate migraines.

A recent study investigated this important subject;  even if a headache med. works, nobody is happy if they gain 30lb.  Surprisingly, Prozac topped the list of weight gainers;  even more than the tricyclic nortryptylline.  Depakote did, as we know, cause weight gain, but less than Prozac.  Topomax (topiramate) was the only one to cause weight loss.  In utilizing headache meds, we are always trying to avoid side effects, and weight gain is a primary one.