Does Sumatriptan Lead To Kidney Damage?
I currently use Imitrex 100mg 1 tab or 2 tabs for migraine headaches. I have always thought that my kidney function was related to high doses of NSAIDS. I now believe that it may be from sumatriptan injectable for a few years prior. My creatinine is currently 1.30 and my GFR ranges between 46 and 49. I am Caucasian female, age 68, overweight, have high cholesterol at 270, and began smoking 6 years ago.
My past history has been a competitive runner for 30 years. My weight changed with a knee injury.
Is sumatriptan a medication that I should consider stopping?
Is there a safe alternative?
My email is YYYY@YYYY
Thank you
Sumatriptan toxicity and alternative
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXX, thanks for asking from HCM.
I can understand your concern. The kidney damage in your case is unlikely to be due to Sumatriptan. It is safe for kidney. Long term use can rarely cause kidney damage. It mainly affects cardiovascular and nervous system.
So the kidney damage is most probably due to NSAIDs which are known to cause its toxicity.
Safe alternative in terms of renal toxicity is not needed. However if you want to change it because of its effects on cardiac function, you can use
Oxycodone
Hydrocodone after proper prescription.
You can even consult your doctor about it. I think if you have symptomatic relief, try o focus more on "preventive therapy" rather than "abortive therapy (sumatriptan)".
Preventive therapy drugs which are safe for you include
: Propranolol
: Amitriptyline
: Valproate
: Avoid bright light, mental stress, chocolate, cheese, late night work, sudden season change, emotional breakthrough.
Hope it will help you. If still in doubt, do let me know.
Thanks. Take care.