Migranil 1.5

Generic

Pizotifen

 

Indications

Pizotifen is prescribed as a preventative therapy for migraine-related vascular headaches such as classical migraine, common migraine, and cluster headache. It is ineffective for alleviating migraine episodes that are already underway.

 

Pharmacology

Pizotifen acts by blocking the peripheral effects of serotonin and histamine in enhancing cranial vascular membrane permeability and plasmakinin transudation, while changing pain thresholds in migraines. Pizotifen inhibits serotonin signaling, which causes cranial vasoconstriction, as well as serotonin-enhanced platelet activity and aggregation, by inhibiting 5-HT receptors. There is evidence that it also suppresses bradykinin's peripheral effects. Pizotifen may block serotonin reuptake by blood platelets, affecting tonicity and reducing passive distension of extracranial arteries. The effects of pizotifen on appetite stimulation might be attributed to the medication working at the metabolic level rather than directly stimulating the appetite center.

 

Dosage & Administration

Adults: Usually 1.5 mg daily. This may be taken as a single dose at night or in three divided doses. Dosage should be adjusted to the individual patient requirements up to a maximum of 4.5 mg daily. Up to 3 mg may be given as a single dose.

Children (aged over 2 years): Up to 1.5 mg daily, usually as a divided dose, although up to 1 mg has been given as a single dose at night.

 

Interaction

Pizotifen may boost the central effects of sedatives, hypnotics, antihistamines (including many common cold treatments), and alcohol. Pizotifen counteracts the hypotensive action of adrenergic neurone blockers.

 

Contraindications

Pizotifen is not recommended for individuals who have a history of hypersensitivity to any of its components.

 

Side Effects

The most frequent adverse effects include hunger stimulation, weight gain, and sleepiness.

 

Pregnancy & Lactation

Although no adverse effects have been recorded, there is a lack of information on the use of Pizotifen during pregnancy. As a result, the medication should only be used during pregnancy if the possible benefit to the mother outweighs the potential danger to the fetus. Pizotifen's safety during breastfeeding has not been proved, thus women should avoid using it during breast-feeding.

 

Precautions & Warnings

Urinary retention and renal impairment should be considered. Drowsiness can impair driving ability and the operation of machinery.

 

Therapeutic Class

Antihistamines and other migraine medications.

 

Storage Conditions

Keep away from light and heat in a dry area. Keep out of children's reach.

 

Pharmaceutical Name

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.