Almotriptan Malate: Early Treatment in Acute Migraine

Abstract

Almotriptan is a selective serotonin agonist used for the relief of moderate to severe migraine headaches. Clinical trials have begun to evaluate its use in the 'early' treatment of migraines, described as when a triptan is administered within 1 hour of the onset of headache for mild pain. These trials have demonstrated higher pain-free rates, decreased recurrence of migraines, and a reduction in the need for rescue medication compared to when the treatment is delayed until the pain is moderate to severe in intensity or beyond 1 hour of headache onset. Tolerability and safety of almotriptan for 'early' use is similar to standard administration of the medication.