Sanomigran (pizotifen)

How does it work?

Sanomigran tablets and elixir contain the active ingredient pizotifen, which is a medicine used in the prevention of migraine headaches. (NB. Pizotifen is also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine.)

Although the cause of migraine attacks is not fully understood, it is thought that the widening of blood vessels in the brain causes the pain associated with migraine attacks.

It is also believed that a chemical called serotonin (also known as 5HT) is released in the brain at the beginning of an attack. Serotonin triggers the release of other chemicals that cause blood vessels in the brain to widen. Serotonin itself causes blood vessels in the brain to narrow.

Pizotifen blocks serotonin (or 5HT) receptors in the brain. Blocking these receptors stops blood vessels in the brain from dilating and contracting. Pizotifen also blocks histamine receptors in the brain. Histamine is responsible for causing inflammation and widening of blood vessels. Blocking the action of histamine prevents inflammation and stops the blood vessels from widening.

By stopping these changes to the blood vessels in the brain, pizotifen helps prevent migraines from occuring. It reduces the frequency and severity of attacks of migraine and other types of vascular headache such as cluster headaches. However, the medicine won't stop an attack once it has started.

What is it used for?

Prevention of recurrent migraines.

Prevention of cluster headaches and other vascular headaches.

Warning!

This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Alcohol should be avoided.

This medicine should be taken regularly to prevent your migraine headaches. It should not be taken to treat an attack, as it will not stop a migraine once it has started.

You should not stop taking this medicine suddenly unless directed by your doctor, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, difficulty sleeping and nausea. When you stop treatment it is recommended that this is done gradually. Follow the instructions given by your doctor.

People with diabetes should be aware that Sanomigran elixir contains a sweetening agent that may affect their blood sugar levels.

Use with caution in

Decreased kidney function.

Difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention).

Closed angle glaucoma.

History of epilepsy.

Not to be used in

Children under two years of age.

Sanomigran tablets contain lactose and should not be taken by people with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, severe lactase deficiency or glucose-glactose malabsorption.

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine for use during pregnancy has not been established. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine may pass into breast milk in small amounts. The manufacturer states that it should be avoided in mothers who are breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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