Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan is a migraine reliever (triptan) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Suminat 50. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
What it is used for
Stops a migraine attack once it has started.
How it works
A triptan that narrows widened brain blood vessels and blocks pain signals, stopping a migraine attack.
How to take it
Take 50 to 100 mg at the start of the headache (not the aura). A second dose after 2 hours if it returns; maximum 300 mg a day. Avoid using on more than 10 days a month.
Common side effects
- Tingling
- Warmth
- Tightness in chest or throat
- Drowsiness
Get medical help straight away if
- Chest pain lasting or severe
- Sudden severe headache unlike usual
- Agitation and fever (serotonin syndrome)
Be careful
Not for people with heart disease or uncontrolled BP; do not use too often.
Other medicines and interactions
Do not take with ergotamine or within 24 hours of another triptan. Serotonin syndrome risk with SSRIs and SNRIs; avoid with MAOIs.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Can be used in pregnancy when needed after medical advice; acceptable while breastfeeding.
Brands of Sumatriptan (1)
Common questions
What is Sumatriptan used for?
Stops a migraine attack once it has started.
How does Sumatriptan work?
A triptan that narrows widened brain blood vessels and blocks pain signals, stopping a migraine attack.
How should I take Sumatriptan?
Take 50 to 100 mg at the start of the headache (not the aura). A second dose after 2 hours if it returns; maximum 300 mg a day. Avoid using on more than 10 days a month.
What are the side effects of Sumatriptan?
Common: Tingling, warmth, tightness in chest or throat, drowsiness. Get help straight away for: Chest pain lasting or severe, sudden severe headache unlike usual, agitation and fever (serotonin syndrome).
Does Sumatriptan interact with other medicines?
Do not take with ergotamine or within 24 hours of another triptan. Serotonin syndrome risk with SSRIs and SNRIs; avoid with MAOIs.
Is Sumatriptan safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Can be used in pregnancy when needed after medical advice; acceptable while breastfeeding.
Does Sumatriptan need a prescription in India?
Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.
Which brands contain Sumatriptan?
Suminat 50.
Sources and further reading
- Sumatriptan: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
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