The device delivers a subcutaneous injection of sumatriptan, without the use of a needle. Autoinjectors with needles have been previously available in Europe and North America.Phase III studies with an iontophoretic transdermal patch (Zelrix/Zecuity) started in July 2008. This patch uses low voltage controlled by a pre-programmed microchip to deliver a single dose of sumatriptan through the skin within 30 minutes. Zecuity was approved by the US FDA in January 2013. Sales of Zecuity have been stopped following reports of skin burns and irritation. Society and culture
Legal status
In the United States, it is available only by medical prescription. This requirement for a medical prescription also exists in Australia. However, it can be bought over the counter in the UK and Sweden.In Russia versions of sumatriptan, which are not registered in the National registry of medications, may be regarded as narcotic drugs (derivatives of dimethyltriptamine). Generics
Glaxo patents for sumatriptan expired in February 2009. At that time, Imitrex sold for about $25 a pill. Par Pharmaceutical then introduced generic versions of sumatriptan injection (sumatriptan succinate injection) 4- and 6-mg starter kits and 4- and 6-mg filled syringe cartridges, and 6-mg vials soon after.Mylan Laboratories Inc., Ranbaxy Laboratories, Sandoz (a subsidiary of Novartis), Dr. Reddys Laboratories, and other companies have been producing generic versions of sumatriptan tablets in 25-, 50-, and 100-mg doses. Generic forms of the drug are available in U.S. and European markets after Glaxos patent protections expired in the respective countries.
Sumatriptan, sold commonly under  brand names Imitrex and Treximet among others, is a medication used to treat migraine headaches and cluster headaches. It is taken orally, intranasally, or by subcutaneous injection. Therapeutic effects generally occur within three hours.Its primary effect as a serotonin 5-HT1B/1D receptor agonist can create common side effects such as chest pressure, fatigue, vomiting, tingling, and vertigo. Serious side effects may include serotonin syndrome, heart attacks, strokes, and seizures. With excessive medication overuse headaches may occur. It is unclear if use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is safe. The mechanism of action not entirely clear. It is in the triptan class of medications.Sumatriptan was patented in 1982 and approved for medical use in 1991. It is on the World Health Organizations List of Essential Medicines. It is available as a generic medication. In 2019, it was the 98th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than seven million prescriptions. It is also available as the combination product sumatriptan/naproxen. Medical uses
Sumatriptan is effective for ending or relieving the intensity of migraine and cluster headaches. It is most effective when taken early after the start of the pain. Injected sumatriptan is more effective than other formulations.Oral sumatriptan can be used also in the treatment of post-dural puncture headache. Adverse effects
Overdose of sumatriptan can cause sulfhemoglobinemia, a rare condition in which the blood changes from red to green, due to the integration of sulfur into the hemoglobin molecule. If sumatriptan is discontinued, the condition reverses within a few weeks.