What triggers a migraine?

Most experts agree that migraine pain is caused by swollen blood vessels around the brain and certain nerves in the brain. However, the exact cause of migraines is not known. What is known is that certain things can trigger a migraine in some people. You will find some common triggers listed below.

Food and drink triggers:
  • Foods and drinks that contain additives, such as MSG (monosodium glutamate). Plus artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, which are found in most sugar-free foods
  • Chocolate
  • Nitrates, which are found in cured meats such as hot dogs, pepperoni, and cold cuts
  • Pickled or marinated foods
  • Aged cheeses
  • Alcohol
  • Overuse of caffeine
  • Fasting or skipping meals
Hormonal and environmental triggers:
  • Sudden changes in hormones before or during your period
  • Bright lights, glare, or reflected sunlight
  • Weather changes, such as falling temperatures or changes in humidity
  • Changes in air pressure, for example, when you are flying in a plane
  • Odors such as perfume, paint, dust, and certain flowers
  • Smoking or being around someone who smokes
Stress and sleep triggers:
  • Being worn out from too much activity, lack of sleep, or even too much sleep
  • Stress and worry during or after a stressful event
  • Intense emotions such as depression
Other medication triggers:
  • Birth control pills and hormone therapy
  • Overuse of headache pain medications, which can lead to rebound headaches



Important safety information

RELPAX is indicated for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. Only your doctor can decide if RELPAX is right for you.

RELPAX should be taken as a single 40-mg tablet. If needed, and as directed by your healthcare professional, an additional 40-mg tablet can be taken at least 2 hours later. No more than two 40-mg tablets should be taken in any 24-hour period.

Most common side effects are dizziness, nausea, weakness, feeling sleepy, pain or pressure sensation in the chest or throat. Tell your doctor about any side effects you have.

If you have certain types of heart disease, a history of stroke, TIA, or uncontrolled blood pressure, you should not take RELPAX. Very rarely, certain people, even some without heart disease, have had serious heart-related problems. Talk to your doctor if you have risk factors for heart disease such as smoking, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, or if you are pregnant or nursing.

RELPAX, as with other drugs in its class (triptans), can cause serotonin syndrome, particularly when used with certain medications (SSRIs and SNRIs) commonly used to treat depression.

RELPAX should not be used within at least 72 hours of treatment with the following medicines: Nizoral®, Sporanox®, Serzone®, TAO®, Biaxin®, Norvir®, and Viracept®.

All brands are trademarks of their owners.

Click here for RELPAX prescribing information.

The health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a health care provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made with a health care provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient.

The product information provided in this site is intended only for residents of the United States. The products discussed herein may have different product labeling in different countries.

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