Sublingual Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are now available! Learn More

Sumatriptan 25 mg Rectal Suppository

The Sumatriptan 25 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form designed for insertion into the rectum. Upon administration, it dissolves or melts, facilitating the release of sumatriptan for local or systemic absorption. This formulation is specifically used in the treatment of migraine headaches and cluster headaches. It provides an alternative route of administration for patients who may experience nausea and vomiting with oral medications, ensuring more consistent absorption and relief from headache symptoms.

Want a different strength?
Click the Text Us button below.
To prescribe, you must be a verified prescriber.
To prescribe, you must be in a state where we hold an active out-of-state pharmacy license.
Starting at
Must be E-Prescribed
Get Started
Generate LeafletShow Leaflet
This medication requires a prescription from your doctor
Are you a prescriber? Sign Up
Trusted by 55,278 patients to date.
A group of faces of our past satisfied patients.
A svg symbol of a mortar and pestle with ingredients going in.
Custom made in our compounding labs.
Sliders that show the customization of ingredients.
Personalized treatment for better results.
User with a gear showing the personalization of the formulation.
All strengths and ingredients are tailored to your needs.
This medication is not available at retail pharmacies. It is compounded, and may be more effective at treating you or your patient.
Suppository
65d78a1cf6a54f20a859d88c
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Loading icon rotating.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Dosing Calculator

Get general dosing information for a patient by using this calculator.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Loading icon rotating.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Formula Information

A small arrow pointing down

Sumatriptan 25 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form designed for insertion into the rectum, where it dissolves or melts to release the active medication, sumatriptan, for local or systemic absorption. This route of administration can be particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty swallowing oral medications or for those experiencing nausea and vomiting, which are common symptoms associated with migraine headaches. Sumatriptan is a selective serotonin receptor agonist that works by constricting blood vessels in the brain, thereby relieving the pain of a migraine headache. It also blocks the release of substances that can trigger migraine symptoms such as pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.

The rectal suppository form of sumatriptan provides an alternative to oral and injectable routes, offering a potentially faster onset of action compared to oral tablets and a non-invasive option compared to injections. This can be particularly advantageous during a severe migraine attack when rapid relief is desired. The 25 mg dose of sumatriptan in the suppository allows for precise dosing and the potential for dose adjustments based on the patient's response and tolerability.

Sumatriptan is indicated for the acute treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura and is not intended for prophylactic therapy or for the management of hemiplegic or basilar migraine. It is important to note that sumatriptan should not be used within 24 hours of treatment with another 5-HT1 agonist, or an ergotamine-containing medication. Patients with a history of coronary artery disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or those who have had a stroke or transient ischemic attacks should not use sumatriptan. As with any medication, there are potential side effects, and patients should be counseled on what to expect and when to seek medical attention.

For prescribers considering this formulation for their patients, it is essential to review the patient's medical history, current medications, and the frequency and severity of migraine attacks to determine the appropriateness of sumatriptan rectal suppositories. Pharmacokinetic properties, such as the rate of absorption and peak plasma levels, may differ between the rectal suppository and other dosage forms of sumatriptan, which can influence the clinical response.

At Bayview Pharmacy, we are committed to providing high-quality compounded medications tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Our team of knowledgeable compounding pharmacists is available to answer any questions and provide additional information regarding the use of Sumatriptan 25 mg Rectal Suppositories for the treatment of migraine headaches. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Drug Interactions

A small arrow pointing down

Sumatriptan is a medication commonly used to treat migraine headaches by narrowing blood vessels around the brain and reducing substances in the body that can trigger headache pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other migraine symptoms. When formulated as a 25 mg rectal suppository, sumatriptan is used for its rapid onset of action and is particularly useful for patients who may have nausea and vomiting with their migraines, making oral administration challenging.

However, sumatriptan has several important drug interactions that both patients and prescribers should be aware of. Sumatriptan should not be used within 24 hours before or after using another migraine headache medicine, including other triptans or ergot-type medications such as dihydroergotamine or methysergide. Combining these medications can cause a dangerous condition called serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening.

Additionally, the use of sumatriptan with antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include mental status changes, autonomic instability, neuromuscular aberrations, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients should be monitored closely for signs of serotonin syndrome, especially during the initiation of therapy, with dose increases, or when another serotonergic drug is initiated.

Sumatriptan is metabolized by monoamine oxidase (MAO), and therefore, the concurrent use of MAO inhibitors (MAOIs) or use of sumatriptan within two weeks of discontinuation of MAOI therapy can lead to increased sumatriptan levels and a higher risk of side effects, including serotonin syndrome. Caution is advised when sumatriptan is prescribed to patients taking MAOIs.

Sumatriptan may also interact with other medications that can increase the risk of side effects, such as other drugs that affect serotonin levels, including St. John's wort, tramadol, and tryptophan. Blood pressure medications, particularly those that can also increase serotonin levels like angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, may also interact with sumatriptan.

Patients with certain medical conditions, such as coronary artery disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe liver disease, or a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), should avoid using sumatriptan due to the increased risk of serious cardiovascular side effects. Sumatriptan can cause blood vessels to constrict and may exacerbate these conditions.

It is essential for patients to inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins, to avoid potential drug interactions. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of sumatriptan rectal suppositories or potential drug interactions, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy for further assistance.

How Does it Work

A small arrow pointing down

The Sumatriptan 25 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form designed to be inserted into the rectum, where it dissolves or melts to release the active medication, sumatriptan, for absorption. Sumatriptan is a selective serotonin receptor agonist that works by targeting serotonin (5-HT) receptors in the brain. Specifically, it binds to the 5-HT1B and 5-HT1D receptors located on blood vessels in the brain and on sensory nerves that trigger migraine headaches. By activating these receptors, sumatriptan causes vasoconstriction, or narrowing, of the blood vessels, which is believed to alleviate the headache by reducing the blood flow and the associated inflammation that contributes to migraine pain.

Additionally, sumatriptan may inhibit the release of certain substances that cause pain, inflammation, and vasodilation during a migraine attack. This dual action helps to relieve the symptoms of migraines, including headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. The rectal suppository form of sumatriptan is particularly useful for patients who experience nausea and vomiting with their migraines, as it bypasses the gastrointestinal tract and can provide relief even when oral medications are not well-tolerated or are ineffective.

When the suppository is inserted rectally, the body's warmth causes it to melt, allowing the sumatriptan to be absorbed through the rectal mucosa directly into the bloodstream. This route of administration can lead to rapid absorption and quick onset of action, which is crucial for the treatment of acute migraine attacks. The rectal route also avoids first-pass metabolism in the liver, which can occur with oral medications, potentially leading to more consistent blood levels of the drug and improved efficacy.

It is important for patients and prescribers to understand that while sumatriptan can be very effective in treating migraine attacks, it is not intended for the prophylactic treatment of migraines or for the treatment of other types of headaches, such as tension headaches. Sumatriptan should only be used after a clear diagnosis of migraine has been established. As with any medication, there are potential side effects and contraindications, so it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if sumatriptan is appropriate for an individual patient's condition.

For more detailed information on the Sumatriptan 25 mg Rectal Suppository, or if you have any questions regarding this formulation, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to provide guidance and support to both patients and prescribers to ensure safe and effective treatment of migraine headaches.

Other Uses

A small arrow pointing down

Sumatriptan rectal suppositories, containing 25 mg of the active ingredient, are commonly used for the treatment of migraine headaches. They can provide relief from migraine symptoms by narrowing blood vessels around the brain and reducing substances in the body that can trigger headache pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other migraine symptoms. While the primary indication for the use of sumatriptan suppositories is for migraine attacks, they may also have utility in the treatment of cluster headaches, which are characterized by severe, unilateral headache attacks accompanied by symptoms such as tearing, nasal congestion, or eyelid drooping. The rectal administration route can be particularly beneficial in patients who experience nausea and vomiting during migraine attacks, making oral medication unsuitable or less effective.

When considering the use of sumatriptan rectal suppositories for indications other than those listed, it is important to carefully consider the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the medication. Due to the fact that suppositories bypass the gastrointestinal tract, they may offer advantages in terms of absorption, especially in the presence of GI dysfunction. However, their use for conditions outside of migraine or cluster headache treatment is not well established and should be approached with caution under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Clinical evidence supporting other uses of sumatriptan suppositories is limited, and safety and efficacy for conditions outside of the approved indications have not been established. Hence, healthcare professionals should be involved in decisions related to off-label uses, and patients should only use these suppositories as prescribed and directed.

Additional considerations for the use of sumatriptan suppositories should include a thorough patient history and assessment to ensure that there are no contraindications such as coronary artery disease, history of stroke or transient ischemic attacks, peripheral vascular disease, or uncontrolled hypertension. It is also necessary to assess the potential for drug interactions, adverse effects, and to make individual risk-benefit assessments for each patient. For detailed information regarding the formulation, potential off-label uses, precautions, and any other concerns, healthcare providers and patients are encouraged to reach out to the compounding pharmacists at Bayview Pharmacy for personalized assistance and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

A small arrow pointing down

What is a Sumatriptan 25 mg Rectal Suppository?

A Sumatriptan 25 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form that contains the medication sumatriptan at a dose of 25 mg. It's designed to be inserted into the rectum where it dissolves or melts, releasing the medication for local or systemic absorption to help relieve migraine headaches.

How does a Sumatriptan Rectal Suppository work?

After insertion, the suppository dissolves at body temperature, releasing the sumatriptan into the lining of the rectum for absorption into the bloodstream. Sumatriptan works by narrowing blood vessels in the brain, stopping pain signals from being sent to the brain, and blocking the release of certain natural substances that cause pain, nausea, and other symptoms of a migraine.

How do I use a Sumatriptan Rectal Suppository?

To use a suppository, wash your hands thoroughly first. Unwrap the suppository and lie on your side with your lower leg straightened out and your upper leg bent. Gently insert the suppository into the rectum, pointed end first, using your finger. Remain lying down for a few minutes to ensure the suppository stays in place. Wash your hands again after application.

Who should not use Sumatriptan Rectal Suppositories?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to sumatriptan or if you have a history of heart disease, angina, blood circulation problems, ischemic bowel disease, severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a history of stroke or heart attack. It is also not recommended for those with certain types of migraine headaches like hemiplegic or basilar migraines.

Are there any side effects of using Sumatriptan Rectal Suppositories?

Yes, some common side effects include feelings of tingling/prickling, warmth, flushing, dizziness, drowsiness, or tiredness. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly. Serious side effects such as changes in heartbeat, severe stomach/abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, seizure, or signs of a stroke should be reported immediately.

Can Sumatriptan Rectal Suppositories be used for regular headaches?

No, Sumatriptan Rectal Suppositories are specifically formulated to treat migraines. They are not indicated for the treatment of common tension headaches or other less severe types of headaches.

How should I store my Sumatriptan Rectal Suppositories?

Store suppositories at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Follow the specific storage instructions on the packaging or ask your pharmacist.

How quickly do Sumatriptan Rectal Suppositories take effect?

While individual responses can vary, typically relief from migraine symptoms can begin within 15 minutes to an hour after the suppository has been inserted.

Can I use a Sumatriptan Rectal Suppository while pregnant?

You should only use this medication during pregnancy if it is clearly needed and directed by your doctor. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using sumatriptan rectal suppositories during pregnancy.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Sumatriptan Rectal Suppository?

If you miss a dose of your suppository, use it as soon as you remember if you are still having migraine symptoms. If your migraine has passed, or if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Can I drink alcohol while using Sumatriptan Rectal Suppositories?

Alcohol can exacerbate certain side effects of sumatriptan, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. It may be best to limit or avoid alcohol while using this medication. If you have concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Related Formulas

Related Products
Formulas and/or material listed are not to be interpreted as a promise, guarantee or claim of therapeutic efficacy or safety. The information contained herein is not intended to replace or substitute for conventional medical care, or encourage its abandonment. Every patient is unique, and formulas should be adjusted to meet their individual needs.
NEW PRESCRIPTION ORDER FORM
1
Circle for steps.
Patient Information
2
Circle for steps.
Prescriber and Prescription Information
3
Circle for steps.
Fax order form to Bayview Pharmacy at 401-284-4506.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.