Rizatriptan
Rizatriptan is a triptan medication used to treat acute migraine headaches with or without aura in adults and children. It works by binding to serotonin (5-HT) receptors on intracranial blood vessels and trigeminal nerves, causing vasoconstriction and reducing inflammatory pain signals associated with migraines. The medication is taken at the onset of a migraine attack and should not be used for migraine prevention.
Rizatriptan is a migraine-specific medication that relieves acute migraine symptoms by targeting serotonin receptors to constrict cranial blood vessels and reduce pain signaling.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N02CC04
- RxNorm
- 88014
- Generic
- Rizatriptan
- Class
- atc-n02
- Brands
- Maxalt, Rizafilm, Symbravo
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Acute treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults and children aged 6 years and older. It is designed for episodic use during active migraine attacks, not for preventive therapy.
Rizatriptan binds with high affinity to human 5-HT 1B/1D receptors located on intracranial blood vessels and sensory nerves of the trigeminal system. This binding causes vasoconstriction of cranial blood vessels and inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators, thereby relieving migraine headache pain and associated symptoms.
Should be taken at migraine onset for best efficacy. Contraindicated in patients with cardiovascular disease, stroke history, or basilar/hemiplegic migraine. Caution advised with concomitant use of SSRIs/SNRIs. Not recommended for patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Tablets and orally disintegrating tablets available.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy