Know anyone taking meds for migraines AND depression? -- Warning from FDA

[Bozita]

Since migraines are a frequent factor in depression, this warning would seem to be directed to an awful lot of people.

I haven't read or heard a word.

http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/advisory/SSRI_SS200607.htm

FDA Public Health Advisory

Combined Use of 5-Hydroxytryptamine Receptor Agonists (Triptans), Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or Selective Serotonin/Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) May Result in Life-threatening Serotonin Syndrome

The FDA has important new safety information about taking triptans (drugs used to treat migraine headaches) together with certain types of antidepressant medicines. The antidepressant medicines of concern are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and selective serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Names of the triptans, SSRIs and SNRIs are provided below.

A life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome may occur when triptans are used together with a SSRI or a SNRI.

Serotonin syndrome occurs when the body has too much serotonin, a chemical found in the nervous system. Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include restlessness, hallucinations, loss of coordination, fast heart beat, rapid changes in blood pressure, increased body temperature, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Serotonin syndrome may be more likely to occur when starting or increasing the dose of a triptan, SSRI or SNRI.

The FDA has determined that serotonin syndrome occurs with combined use of triptans and a SSRI or SNRI through reports describing serotonin syndrome in people taking these medications together. Each of these types of medicine increases serotonin levels on its own, as well.

more...

[Redstone]

1. I didn't know there was such a thing as too much seretonin.

Thanks for the alert.

Redstone

[mahatmakanejeeves]

2. This was on "House" last night.

It was a rerun.

[Bozita]

5. The FDA piece is dated July 19, 2006

"House" ... on a re-run?

How'd that happen?

[ncrainbowgrrl]

3. If this pertains to you, feel free to discuss it with your doctor.

This warning is a general one, and has been given in the past. This is not a new medical finding, nor is it a reason to panic if you are taking these medications together successfully. However, it is a good reminder of the importance of telling one's physician about all medications (OTC and prescription) and supplements that you are currently taking before they prescribe any additional medication for your current condition.

[rasputin1952]

6. I am going to add, talk to your, or any pharmacist as well...

these people are trained for med interactions and are wonderful contacts for such things.

Like stated above: ALL meds, OTC and Rx need to be known to your Health care Professionals!

Most interactions are rare, but some may indeed be serious.

Make sure you know what you are taking and write them down! Stick w/one pharmacist so your records are kept in just on just one site.

BTW: for Rx Meds, call around, you'd be surprised at price differences!

[alfredo]

4. So I guess it might be a good idea

to skip the Zoloft on days you have a migraine and take Imitrex.

It would be easy for me because my migraines start at night, so by the time I crawl out of bed I know I will be taking Imitrex.

[lastknowngood]

7. If you do have them cut out their intake of nitrates and nitrites

My wife and at least 8 friends who had weekly or at least monthly headaches have been migraine free for up to 20 years. They are poison and build up in the system.

[Bozita]

8. We gotta keep this notice alive (really bad pun)

kick