Eletriptan

Definition

Eletriptan is a medication used to treat acute migraine headaches. It works by narrowing blood vessels around the brain and reducing substances that trigger headache pain.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eletriptan is classified as a triptan, specifically a serotonin receptor agonist.
2. It is most effective when taken at the first sign of a migraine headache.
3. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea.
4. Eletriptan should not be used in patients with cardiovascular diseases or uncontrolled hypertension due to its vasoconstrictive effects.
5. It is metabolized primarily by the liver enzyme CYP3A4.

Review Questions

• What class of drugs does eletriptan belong to?
• Why should eletriptan be taken at the onset of a migraine?
• List two common side effects of eletriptan.

Related terms

Sumatriptan: Another triptan drug used to treat migraines. It also narrows blood vessels around the brain.

Serotonin Receptor Agonists: A class of drugs that activate serotonin receptors to alleviate migraines.

Migraine Headache: A type of headache characterized by severe pain, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.