Relpax 40: Uses, Side Effects, Interaction, Warnings & Dosage

Introduction

Relpax 40 is used to treat migraines, cluster headaches and any other associated ailments like vomiting and other acute symptoms of cluster headaches and vomiting. Due to its efficiency in providing relief from these ailments, Eli Lilly manufactures these pills on a large scale.

The active ingredient here is Eletriptan hydrobromide. 20- 40 mg of this drug has proven to be effective in providing instant relief from acute symptoms of cluster headaches.

In this article, we’ll be taking you through the various aspects of Relpax 40, such as its uses, side effects, warnings, dosage and alternatives. Based on this, you can decide its suitability for your ailments.

Let’s start by understanding the causes and symptoms of cluster headaches.

What Are Cluster Headaches?

Cluster headaches are bouts of painful headaches occurring in cluster periods which last from anywhere to a week for days or months. Pain is in the form of severe, one-sided headache, or behind the eyes. It is accompanied by drooping of eyelids, tears and nasal discharge, followed by periods of remission (complete absence of headaches for varied periods).

The exact cause of these isn’t known. Some of the triggers include:

• Alcohol or smoking
• Strong smells like perfumes or deodorants
• Blinding lights
• High altitudes

However, some of these won’t trigger a cluster headache during remission.

Bonus Read: Know more about the symptoms, causes and more about cluster headaches.

How Does Relpax 40 Treat Cluster Headaches?

Cluster headaches are believed to be caused by dilation of brain vessels. The active ingredient in Relpax 40, eletriptan hydrobromide, affects a neurotransmitter called serotonin. This causes the brain vessels to narrow down and reduces nausea, headache and symptoms of a migraine for most people.

It stops pain signals from the brain and prevents the release of any other pain-inducing substances. However, it does not prevent the attacks completely but only reduces their frequency.

Uses of Relpax 40

Relpax 40 can only be used to treat headaches that have already begun. It falls under the category of triptan medicine, also known as selective serotonin receptor agonists.

Relpax 40 and its generic counterparts can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Migraines: Relpax 40 can be used for migraines. About 70% of people feel better within a few hours. However, people with skin sensitivity should consult a GP before consumption.
  Migraines are reportedly caused due to constriction of brain vessels. Relpax helps in dilating and reducing their activity and provides temporary relief.
• Altitude sickness: This topic needs more research. According to a randomized survey, eletriptan provided relief from altitude sickness.

Now that we’re familiar with the uses of Relpax 40, let us see the dosage options.

Dosage of Relpax 40

Relpax 40 contains 48.5mg of eletriptan hydrobromide, which equals 40mg of eletriptan, and comes in a film-coated, orange tablet. It is round-shaped and convex. The dose can be repeated after 2 hours, if necessary.

The tablet contains more eletriptan than Relpax 20 and should be used mindfully. Also, not to forget, the tablets can be taken with or without food and water.

A single dose consists of 1 whole tablet. The daily dosage should not exceed 80mg, i.e. not more than 2 tablets a day. Moreover, the tablet best works when taken at the earliest sign of a headache.

Side Effects of Relpax 40

Relpax 40, like any other tablet, has certain side effects. These can be into 2 groups based on their frequency of occurrence.

Common Side Effects

• Mild headache (not as severe as the actual cluster period)
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach complaints/cramps
• Heaviness or pressure in any part of the body
• Redness or warmth in or under any body parts (flushing)
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Weakness or numbness in body parts

These side effects are common and not threatening. They tend to disappear with minimal medication. Additionally, Consult a doctor if they persist.

Rare Side Effects

• Serotonin syndrome (type of disorder where the neurotransmitter levels increase).
• Chest pain (Angina)
• Seizures
• Hyperventilation (or low supply of oxygenated blood to the heart)
• Stroke (symptoms are trouble speaking, confusion, or vision problems)
• Brain haemorrhage
• Blue fingers or toes/numbness

Get immediate medical help if hallucinations, unexpected fever, or agitation occurs. Rare side effects require immediate attention and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Stop using the Relpax 40 immediately if the symptoms occur after consumption and seek a diagnosis.

Interactions

The most frequently researched and checked interactions of Relpax 40 include:

• Cymbalta (duloxetine)
• TraMADol
• Tizanidine
• Trazodone
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Propranolol
• 5-hydroxytryptophan

There are only two lifestyle interactions which include high cholesterol and obesity. Apart from these two, there are no major clinical hazards.

The interactions are similar to Relpax 20, but since Relpax 40 has a higher eletriptan concentration, one should proceed with care.

Warnings

• Before using the drug, share your medical history with the practitioner
• Do not drive or use machinery while under the influence of this drug
• During pregnancy, use the medicine only if necessary. Consult a doctor before doing so
• Breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before using it since the drug can be passed on through breast milk
• Do not use the medicine if you have heart or circulatory problems
• High blood pressure patients shouldn’t use Relpax 40 without a doctor’s prescription

Alternatives to Relpax 40

There are a few alternatives, cheaper and costlier than Relpax 40, that can be used instead. Some of the popular options include:

• Frova (frovatriptan)
• Maxalt (rizatriptan)
• Cafergot (ergotamine/caffeine)
• Imitrex (sumatriptan)
• Amerge (naratriptan)
• Onzetra (sumatriptan)
• Axert (almotriptan)

All the above medicines are prescription drugs and should not be used without a doctor’s prescription.

Conclusion

Relpax comes in two forms: Relpax 40 and Relpax 20. Relpax 40 has a higher concentration of eletriptan and should be used cautiously. Most importantly, it is advised to consult a doctor before using it.

We have shed light on Relpax 40, its uses, dosages, interactions, side effects and warnings. Ideally, it should be used if the less powerful version doesn’t seem to provide relief.

The article has provided substantial information which will help you figure out its suitability for you.

We hope you find this information useful and put it to the right use!