Can Imitrex cause a stroke

Answer 1

Yes. Research has shown that patients with migraine with aura are at increased risk of stroke. This risk is highest during instances of status migrainosus (migraines that last longer than 72 hours) or migraines with prolonged aura (aura that lasts longer than one to two hours). Inflammation in the blood vessels in the head and neck can temporarity decrease blood flow to the brain, causing a stroke, or a stroke like event. Migraines with aura also caused an increased risk of white matter lesions on the brain. It is not known if these lesions actually cause changes in cognitive function. In addition, there is a rare hereditary disease called CADASIL (cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy). Migraine with aura is one of its main initial symptoms. This is a degenerative disease with no cure, that causes repeated strokes and dementia.

Answer 2

Imitrex does constrict blood vessels (that is the way it relieves a migraine). It has been reported to cause strokes which is why it is not recommended in people who may be prone to a stroke. Higher doses than recommended increase the possibility that it could cause a stroke.

Answer 3

Yes, it is true that Migraine can sometimes cause stroke. When this happens, it is known as Migraineous Stroke. Additionally, sometimes the effects of a Migraine attack such as increased blood pressure, may result in stroke. Migraine itself increases the risk for cardiovascular disease in many patients, and that increased risk may result in stroke. Medications taken by Migraineurs for their attacks, either abortives, preventives or rescue medicines may also result in stroke. Migraine itself may resemble stroke, which may confuse and frighten patients who suffer stroke symptoms related to their attacks.

For appropriate diagnosis and treatment of Migraine and other headache conditions, please seek the help of a board certified Migraine and headache specialist who has received additional training in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of these headache disorders and diseases.