What is the brand name for Sumatriptan?
The brand name for Sumatriptan is Imitrex.
PTCE Top 200 · #107
Sumatriptan
Imitrex
Sumatriptan is the generic name for the brand-name drug Imitrex. It is a triptan (migraine abortive) used to treat migraine (acute). On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Sumatriptan ranks #107 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Sumatriptan |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Imitrex |
| Drug class | Triptan (migraine abortive) |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | migraine (acute) |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Sumatriptan used for?
Triptan used for acute treatment of migraine attacks (with or without aura) and cluster headache (certain formulations).
What drug class is Sumatriptan?
Sumatriptan is a Triptan (migraine abortive) in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Sumatriptan
- arrow_rightTingling (paresthesia)
- arrow_rightFlushing/warmth
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightDrowsiness
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightChest/neck pressure (tightness)
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO‑A inhibitors: contraindicated (↑ sumatriptan levels)—avoid within 2 weeks
- arrow_rightErgotamines or other triptans: avoid within 24 hours (vasospasm risk)
- arrow_rightSSRIs/SNRIs and other serotonergic drugs: rare serotonin syndrome risk—monitor
Is Sumatriptan a controlled substance?
No. Sumatriptan is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Sumatriptan (PTCE mnemonic)
IMITrex IMIT-ates 5-HT — suma-TRIPTAN stops a migraine 'trip' at first sign. Chest tightness/coronary vasospasm; NO with CAD, ergots, MAOIs; ≤2 doses/24hr.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Triptans ABORT a migraine already underway — they don't prevent one. The -triptan suffix and the 'not with heart disease' caution are the tested points.
Sumatriptan FAQ
What is Sumatriptan used for?
Sumatriptan is used to treat migraine (acute). Triptan used for acute treatment of migraine attacks (with or without aura) and cluster headache (certain formulations).
What drug class is Sumatriptan?
Sumatriptan is a Triptan (migraine abortive) (CNS/Psych group).
Is Sumatriptan a controlled substance?
No. Sumatriptan is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Sumatriptan the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).