Pizotifen: Difference between revisions

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'''Pizotifen''' is a medicine that is primarily used as a preventive treatment for [[migraine]] and other recurring [[headache]] disorders. It is a [[serotonin antagonist]] that inhibits the release of [[vasoactive substances]].
{{Short description|An article about the medication Pizotifen}}


== Mechanism of Action ==
== Overview ==
Pizotifen works by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called [[serotonin]] in the brain. Serotonin is a natural substance that acts as a messenger between nerve cells. It is thought to play a role in the dilation and constriction of blood vessels in the brain, which is believed to be related to the development of migraines.
[[File:Pizotifen_structure.svg|thumb|right|Chemical structure of Pizotifen]]
'''Pizotifen''' is a medication primarily used as a preventive treatment for [[migraine]] headaches. It is known for its ability to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Pizotifen is also used in the management of [[cluster headache]]s.


== Uses ==
== Pharmacology ==
Pizotifen is used to prevent migraines and other types of recurring headaches. It is not effective in treating a migraine attack that has already started, but it can help to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks when taken regularly.
Pizotifen is classified as a [[serotonin antagonist]] and an [[antihistamine]]. It works by blocking certain [[serotonin]] receptors in the brain, which are thought to be involved in the development of migraines. Additionally, it has some [[anticholinergic]] properties.
 
=== Mechanism of Action ===
Pizotifen acts by inhibiting the action of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can cause blood vessels in the brain to dilate, leading to migraine headaches. By blocking serotonin receptors, pizotifen helps to stabilize these blood vessels and prevent the onset of a migraine.
 
== Clinical Use ==
Pizotifen is prescribed for the prevention of recurrent migraine attacks. It is not effective in treating an acute migraine attack once it has started. The medication is usually taken orally in the form of tablets.
 
=== Dosage and Administration ===
The typical starting dose of pizotifen is 0.5 mg taken once daily, usually at bedtime. The dose may be gradually increased based on the patient's response and tolerance, up to a maximum of 3 mg per day.


== Side Effects ==
== Side Effects ==
Common side effects of Pizotifen include drowsiness, weight gain, dry mouth, and increased appetite. Less common side effects can include depression, hallucinations, and problems with coordination.
Common side effects of pizotifen include drowsiness, increased appetite, and weight gain. Some patients may experience dry mouth, dizziness, or nausea. It is important for patients to discuss any side effects with their healthcare provider.


== Contraindications ==
== Contraindications ==
Pizotifen should not be used by people with glaucoma, difficulty passing urine, or an allergy to any of the ingredients in the medication. It should also be used with caution in people with a history of heart disease, liver disease, or kidney disease.
Pizotifen should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It is also contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle [[glaucoma]] or [[urinary retention]].


== Interactions ==
== Related Pages ==
Pizotifen can interact with a number of other medications, including other migraine medications, antidepressants, and antihistamines. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting Pizotifen.
 
== See Also ==
* [[Migraine]]
* [[Migraine]]
* [[Serotonin]]
* [[Serotonin antagonist]]
* [[Vasoactive substances]]
* [[Antihistamine]]
 
* [[Cluster headache]]
[[Category:Medicine]]
[[Category:Pharmacology]]
[[Category:Neurology]]


{{stub}}
[[Category:Antimigraine drugs]]
[[Category:Serotonin antagonists]]

Latest revision as of 11:32, 15 February 2025

An article about the medication Pizotifen


Overview[edit]

Chemical structure of Pizotifen

Pizotifen is a medication primarily used as a preventive treatment for migraine headaches. It is known for its ability to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Pizotifen is also used in the management of cluster headaches.

Pharmacology[edit]

Pizotifen is classified as a serotonin antagonist and an antihistamine. It works by blocking certain serotonin receptors in the brain, which are thought to be involved in the development of migraines. Additionally, it has some anticholinergic properties.

Mechanism of Action[edit]

Pizotifen acts by inhibiting the action of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can cause blood vessels in the brain to dilate, leading to migraine headaches. By blocking serotonin receptors, pizotifen helps to stabilize these blood vessels and prevent the onset of a migraine.

Clinical Use[edit]

Pizotifen is prescribed for the prevention of recurrent migraine attacks. It is not effective in treating an acute migraine attack once it has started. The medication is usually taken orally in the form of tablets.

Dosage and Administration[edit]

The typical starting dose of pizotifen is 0.5 mg taken once daily, usually at bedtime. The dose may be gradually increased based on the patient's response and tolerance, up to a maximum of 3 mg per day.

Side Effects[edit]

Common side effects of pizotifen include drowsiness, increased appetite, and weight gain. Some patients may experience dry mouth, dizziness, or nausea. It is important for patients to discuss any side effects with their healthcare provider.

Contraindications[edit]

Pizotifen should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It is also contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma or urinary retention.

Related Pages[edit]