ABSTRACT
Rizatriptan is absorbed rapidly and completely from the GI tract following oral ingestion. However, the bioavailability of rizatriptan is only moderate, primarily due to significant first-pass hepatic metabolism. Rizatriptan pharmacotherapy commonly has been associated with chest pain, decreased mental acuity, dizziness, feeling of heaviness, neck stiffness, pressure sensation, warm/cold sensations, and weakness. Clinical data concerning rizatriptan overdosage are not available. In the absence of such data, rizatriptan overdosage should be treated as a medical emergency requiring symptomatic support of body systems with attention to increasing rizatriptan elimination. The metabolism of rizatriptan may be decreased among these patients and result in significant increases in blood concentrations and resultant toxicity. Avoid prescribing rizatriptan pharmacotherapy to women who are pregnant. If rizatriptan pharmacotherapy is required, advise patients of potential benefits and possible risk to themselves and the embryo, fetus, or neonate. Collaboration with the patient’s obstetrician is indicated.
