Also indexed as: Imitrex®
Sumatriptan is a member of the selective serotonin receptor agonist family of drugs used to
treat, but not prevent, migraine headaches. Sumatriptan
is available in injection, nasal spray, and oral tablet forms.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)
 Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements
when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous
results. |
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)*
L-tryptophan*
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and
L-tryptophan
Sumatriptan works by stimulating serotonin receptors in the brain. 5-HTP and L-tryptophan are
converted to serotonin in the brain, and taking them with sumatriptan could increase
sumatriptan-induced side effects. However, no interactions have yet been reported with
sumatriptan and 5-HTP or L-tryptophan.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
Sumatriptan tablets may begin to work faster when taken with fluid on an empty stomach at the
first sign of migraine.1 2
References
1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Agents for Migraine,
Serotonin 5-HT1 Receptor Agonists. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St.
Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Jun 1996, 256a.
2. Holt GA. Food & Drug Interactions. Chicago: Precept
Press, 1998, 253.
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Medicines with Vitamins and Herbs
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purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro),
clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may
not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires July 2004.