Who can and cannot take or use sumatriptan

Most adults can have sumatriptan tablets or injections. But the nasal spray is only officially approved for people under the age of 65.

Sumatriptan is not officially approved for children. However, a specialist doctor may sometimes prescribe it for a child aged 6 years or over.

Sumatriptan is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to sumatriptan or any other medicine
• have a heart problem such as coronary heart disease, chest pain (angina), heart rhythm problems (arrhythmia) or you've had a heart attack
• have circulation problems in your legs (peripheral vascular disease)
• have had a stroke or "mini stroke" (transient ischaemic attack)
• have liver disease or other liver problems
• have seizures or fits
• are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant or breastfeeding
• are a heavy smoker or use nicotine replacement therapy (particularly if you've been through menopause, or if you're a man over the age of 40)
• have high blood pressure

You may be able to use sumatriptan if you've had high blood pressure in the past and it is now well controlled with treatment.

If you have a latex allergy, check with your doctor or a pharmacist before having sumatriptan injections. Some needle protectors may contain latex.