Rizatriptan vs. Sumatriptan — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 14, 2024
Rizatriptan and Sumatriptan are both triptans used to treat migraines, but Rizatriptan often works faster and may be more effective in relieving pain within 2 hours.
Difference Between Rizatriptan and Sumatriptan
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Rizatriptan is a migraine medication known for its rapid onset of action, typically relieving symptoms within 2 hours of ingestion. On the other hand, Sumatriptan is also effective for migraine relief but may take slightly longer to reach full efficacy.
While both medications function as serotonin receptor agonists, triggering vasoconstriction of cranial blood vessels, Rizatriptan may be more potent in its action, providing quicker symptom relief compared to Sumatriptan.
Patients often report that Rizatriptan has fewer side effects, which includes sensations of pressure or tightness in the chest and neck. Conversely, Sumatriptan users may experience these side effects more prominently.
The effectiveness of Rizatriptan in treating migraine symptoms after they have begun is notable, often resulting in significant pain relief. Sumatriptan, while effective, sometimes requires a second dose to achieve complete migraine alleviation.
Both medications are available in various forms, such as tablets, nasal sprays, and injections. However, Rizatriptan is typically preferred for those seeking faster oral medication results, whereas Sumatriptan injections can be used for rapid relief when oral medication is not suitable.
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Comparison Chart
Onset of Action
Typically works within 2 hours.
May take slightly longer to relieve migraine.
Potency
Considered more potent in rapid symptom relief.
Effective, but sometimes requires additional dosing.
Side Effects
Generally fewer side effects.
More common experiences of chest tightness.
Forms Available
Tablets, orally disintegrating tablets.
Tablets, nasal spray, injections.
Preferred Use
Preferred for rapid oral relief.
Injections offer fastest relief when needed.
Compare with Definitions
Rizatriptan
Known for its fast-acting relief capabilities.
Rizatriptan provided relief within two hours of administration.
Sumatriptan
Available in several forms, including nasal sprays and injections.
When her migraines are unbearable, she uses Sumatriptan injections.
Rizatriptan
Generally recommended to be taken at the onset of a migraine.
As soon as her migraine began, she took a dose of Rizatriptan.
Sumatriptan
Also used to treat migraines by constricting blood vessels around the brain.
Sumatriptan is her go-to treatment for severe migraines.
Rizatriptan
It primarily affects serotonin receptors to alleviate pain.
Rizatriptan targets specific receptors to reduce headache intensity.
Sumatriptan
Recommended for quick relief when taken in injection form.
For rapid migraine relief, he opted for a Sumatriptan injection.
Rizatriptan
Available in orally disintegrating tablets which dissolve on the tongue.
He prefers Rizatriptan because he can take it without water.
Sumatriptan
Can cause side effects like nausea and sensations of warmth or pressure.
After taking Sumatriptan, he felt a slight pressure in his chest.
Rizatriptan
A medication used to treat acute migraine headaches in adults.
She took Rizatriptan as soon as she felt migraine symptoms.
Sumatriptan
Sometimes requires a second dose for full migraine relief.
She took a second dose of Sumatriptan two hours after the first as the headache persisted.
Rizatriptan
Rizatriptan, sold under the brand name Maxalt among others, is a medication used for the treatment of migraine headaches. It is taken by mouth.Common side effects include chest pain, dizziness, dry mouth, and tingling.
Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan, sold under the brand name Imitrex among others, is a medication used to treat migraine headaches and cluster headaches. It is taken by mouth, in the nose, or by injection under the skin.
Rizatriptan
An oral drug of the triptan class, C15H19N5, used in its benzoate form to treat migraine headaches.
Sumatriptan
A triptan drug, C14H21N3O2S, used also in the form of its succinate to treat migraine headache and cluster headache.
Rizatriptan
(medicine) A triptan agonist used in the treatment of migraine
Sumatriptan
A drug used for the treatment of migraine headaches.
Common Curiosities
Can Sumatriptan cause side effects?
Yes, it can cause chest tightness, nausea, and other effects.
Is Rizatriptan better than Sumatriptan?
Rizatriptan may provide faster relief with fewer side effects, but individual responses can vary.
What is Rizatriptan used for?
To treat migraine headaches by narrowing blood vessels around the brain.
How quickly does Rizatriptan work?
It often works within 2 hours of ingestion.
How do you take Rizatriptan?
It is available in tablet form or as an orally disintegrating tablet.
Can everyone use Rizatriptan or Sumatriptan?
They are not suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain cardiovascular conditions.
What forms does Sumatriptan come in?
It is available as tablets, nasal sprays, and injections.
What should you do if Sumatriptan does not relieve your migraine?
A second dose might be necessary, but always consult a healthcare provider.
How do these medications affect serotonin levels?
Both medications work by stimulating serotonin receptors to reduce inflammation and constrict blood vessels.
Are there any dietary restrictions while taking these medications?
Generally, there are no specific dietary restrictions, but alcohol can exacerbate side effects.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
