Maxalt Side Effects

By: Isabel Prontes

Break Studios Contributing Writer

For migraine sufferers, it is important to be aware of Maxalt side effects, especially if you are considering using the medication. Maxalt is a prescription drug that is used for the pain relief and management of migraine headaches. The medication comes in oral tablet form, and apart from headaches, also helps to relieve other common migraine symptoms, including light and sound sensitivity, vomiting and nausea. The generic name for Maxalt is Rizatriptan Benzoate.

  1. Minor side effects of Maxalt can occur in some patients. The medication's most common side effects include feelings of weakness, exhaustion, sleepiness, dizziness, unusual sensations (such as pricking, burning and tingling), dry mouth, throat, jaw and neck pain and chest-related issues (check tightness, heaviness, pressure and pain). These side effects tend to subside once the body adapts to the new drug.
  2. Severe Maxalt effects are rare but possible. If you experience any severe effects of the medication, you must notify your doctor as soon as possible, or seek emergency medical assistance. These side effects are extreme and sudden abdominal pain, shortness of breath, passing out, vision disturbances (such as vision loss), tremors, slurred speech, cold toes and fingers (which can sometimes even turn blue in color), coordination problems, confusion, sweating more, convulsions and irregular, slow or rapid heartbeat.
  3. Allergic reactions to Maxalt also can be problematic. Watch out for indications of an allergic reaction to the medicine, such as wheezing, unusual swelling, hives, itchiness and skin rashes with no apparent or obvious causes. Allergic reactions require medical help as soon as possible.
  4. Maxalt can cause negative drug interactions with various antidepressants. Be sure to inform your doctor of any antidepressants you might be taking before getting a prescription for Maxalt. Some signs of bad drug interactions are having trouble walking, muscle spasms, fever and hallucinations (where you imagine the presence of things that are not actually there).
Posted on: Mar. 28, 2011