Triptans Overview

Triptans are a class of medications specifically used to treat migraine headaches. This guide will cover the essential information you need to know about triptans.

Key Characteristics of Triptans

• Drug Name Suffix: Triptans can easily be recognized as their names end with '-triptan.'
• Common Drugs:
  • Sumatriptan: The most commonly encountered triptan, used approximately 99% of the time.
  • Other Triptans: Include Zolmatriptan and Rixatriptan.

Clinical Use

• Triptans are primarily used to treat the pain associated with migraine headaches.
• These medications are often administered in combination with NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) to stop a migraine after it has begun.

Memorization Tips

• Sumo Wrestler Analogy: Remembering a sumo wrestler can help recall Sumatriptan (Sumo for Sumatriptan).
  • The analogy suggests that just like a sumo wrestler taking a hit to the head, triptans treat headaches.

Recap

• Medication Class: Triptans are recognized by their '-triptan' suffix.
• Primary Drug: Sumatriptan, though others like Zolmatriptan and Rixatriptan exist.
• Usage: Effective in treating migraine headaches, often alongside NSAIDs.

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For more resources on this topic, including fact lists and interactive review images, check the provided resources in the video description.

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