Pizotifen
Brand Names [Top]

Sanomigran
Also Used In These Combined Preperation(s) [Top]

None
Member of these group(s) [Top]

Drug for migraine
Notes [Top]
Prescription Required: Yes
Dependence Level: Low
Overdose Danger Level: Medium

Description [Top]

This is an antihistamine drug that has a chemical structure similar to that of the tricyclic antidepressants, and also has similar anticholinergic effects. It is used to prevent migraine headaches in people who suffer frequent, disabling attack. The exact mechanism by which it works is not known, but it is thought to be due to its blocking action on chemicals (histamine and serotonin) that act on the blood vessels in the brain. Pizotifen has also been used to relieve the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome, a disorder in which excess production of serotonin causes attacks of flushing and diarrhoea. The main disadvantage of prolonged use of the drug is that it sometimes stimulates appetite and as a result often causes weight gain. It is usually prescribed only for people with whom simpler measures for the prevention of migraine (such as avoidance of stress and foods that trigger attacks) have failed.

How Taken [Top]

Tablets
Liquid
If An Overdose is Suspected [Top]

It is unlikely that an extra unintentional dose will cause concern, but a large overdose may cause drowsiness, nausea, palpitations and fits. If any occur then notify your doctor.

Possible Adverse Reactions [Top]

Drowsiness is a common effect of this drug but it can be minimised by commencing with a low dose which is gradually increased.

Possible Side Effects [Top]

Symptom Frequency Consult a Doctor if
Severe, All or Stop*.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Weight gain Common Severe
Increased appetite Common Severe
Dizziness Common Severe
Drowsiness Common Severe
Nausea Rare Severe
Muscle pains Rare Severe
Dry mouth Rare Severe
Blurred vision Rare Severe

* If Stop is shown next to your symptom consult your doctor before you are due to take the next dose.

Possible Interactions With Other Drugs [Top]

Anticholinergics: The weak anticholinergic effects of pizotifen are likely to be increased by other anticholinergic drugs, including tricyclic antidepressants. MAOIs: A dangerous rise in blood pressure may occur if pizotifen is taken with MonoAmine Oxidase Inhibitors. Sedatives: All drugs that have a sedative effect on the central nervous system are likely to increase the sedative properties of pizotifen. These include sleeping drugs, anti-anxiety drugs, narcotic analgesics and antihistamines.

Consult Your Doctor If You Are Taking This Drug and... [Top]

You have long-term kidney problems
You have glaucoma
You have prostate trouble
Points To Be Aware Of [Top]

Pregnancy: Safety of this drug during pregnancy has not yet been established, so discuss this with your doctor. Nursing: Although this drug passes into the breast milk, at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely. Discuss this with your doctor. Driving: Because this drug may cause dizziness, drowsiness and/or blurred vision you should avoid driving and hazardous activities until you know how it affects you. Alcohol: Avoid alcohol as it may increase the sedative effects of this drug.

Effects Of Prolonged Use [Top]

Pizotifen often causes weight gain during long-term use.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------