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Relpax is a prescription oral medication used to treat acute migraine attacks in adults. It contains the active ingredient eletriptan, which belongs to a class of drugs called triptans (selective serotonin 5-HT1B/1D receptor agonists). Relpax works by narrowing dilated blood vessels in the brain and reducing inflammation associated with migraine attacks. This helps relieve symptoms such as headache pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound. The medication is available as oral tablets and is taken at the first sign of a migraine attack. It is not intended for preventing migraines or for treating other types of headaches, such as cluster headaches.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Eletriptan hydrobromide |
| Brand Name | Relpax |
| Manufacturer | Pfizer Inc. |
| Drug Class | Serotonin (5‑HT1B/1D) receptor agonist (Triptan) |
| FDA‑Approved Indication | Acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults |
| Status | FDA‑Approved |
| Limitations of Use | • Not for prophylaxis of migraine • Not indicated for cluster headache |
| Dosage Forms & Strengths | Oral tablets: 20 mg and 40 mg |
| Onset of Action | Peak plasma levels occur about 1–2 hours after an oral dose, and clinical relief may begin within 30 minutes |
| Common Side Effects | Asthenia (weakness), nausea, dizziness, somnolence |
| Serious Risks / Warnings | • Myocardial ischemia, infarction, Prinzmetal’s angina • Arrhythmias (ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation) • Cerebrovascular events (stroke, hemorrhage) • Vasospasm reactions (GI ischemia, Raynaud’s) • Serotonin syndrome (especially with SSRIs/SNRIs) • Hypertensive crisis • Anaphylaxis/angioedema |
| Contraindications | • Coronary artery disease or vasospasm • History of stroke/TIA, hemiplegic or basilar migraine • Wolff‑Parkinson‑White syndrome or accessory conduction disorders • Peripheral vascular disease, ischemic bowel disease • Uncontrolled hypertension • Use within 24 hours of another triptan or ergotamine • Use within 72 hours of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) • Hypersensitivity to eletriptan |
| Use in Specific Populations | • Pregnancy: Limited human data are available; animal studies have shown potential fetal risk • Lactation: Eletriptan is excreted in human milk; breastfeeding should be avoided for 24 hours after dosing • Pediatric: Not established; efficacy not proven in adolescents • Geriatric: Similar efficacy; monitor blood pressure closely • Hepatic impairment: Not recommended in severe impairment |
| Storage | Store at controlled room temperature. Protect from moisture |
| Legal Status | Prescription only (Rx) |
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According to FDA labeling, Relpax is approved for:
Do not take Relpax if you:
Important Information: Relpax should also not be used within 24 hours of other triptan medications or ergot-type migraine drugs.
If you are prescribed Relpax (eletriptan) for migraine treatment, follow these administration guidelines:
Consider the following doses for Relpax (eletriptan) for acute treatment of migraine attacks:
| Patient Group / Condition | Recommended Dose | Maximum Dose | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults with acute migraine | 20 mg or 40 mg taken orally at the first sign of a migraine | 80 mg in 24 hours | If the migraine improves but returns, a second dose may be taken after at least 2 hours. |
| Adults requiring stronger relief | 40 mg taken orally | 80 mg per day | Higher doses may provide greater relief but may also increase the risk of side effects. |
| Second dose for recurring migraine | Same as the initial dose | Must not exceed 80 mg in 24 hours | Do not repeat the dose if the first dose does not relieve the migraine. |
| Patients with severe liver impairment | Not recommended | — | Relpax use should be avoided in severe hepatic impairment. |
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Relpax (eletriptan) works by activating serotonin (5-HT1B/1D) receptors in the brain. This action helps narrow dilated blood vessels and reduce the release of inflammatory neuropeptides involved in migraine attacks. By targeting these pathways, Relpax can help relieve migraine symptoms such as nausea, headache pain, and sensitivity to light or sound.
| Common Side Effects | Rare or Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Heart attack or other serious heart problems |
| Dizziness | Stroke or cerebrovascular events |
| Weakness or fatigue | Serotonin syndrome (when used with certain antidepressants) |
| Drowsiness (somnolence) | Severe increase in blood pressure |
| Chest or throat tightness/pressure | Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, trouble breathing) |
| Flushing or feeling warm | Reduced blood flow to the heart or other organs |
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Clinical studies have evaluated the effectiveness of Relpax (eletriptan) in the acute treatment of migraine attacks in adults. Evidence from published clinical trials shows that eletriptan provides rapid pain relief and improved migraine outcomes compared with placebo and some other migraine treatments.
A review published on PubMed analyzed multiple clinical trials and found that eletriptan, a selective 5-HT1B/1D serotonin receptor agonist, effectively relieved moderate to severe migraine attacks. Some studies reported measurable improvement within about 30 minutes, with significant relief typically occurring within 2 hours.
The same analysis reported that:
Additional randomized trials also demonstrated that eletriptan significantly increased headache relief rates compared with placebo, with response rates reaching around 60–67% in some treatment groups.
Together, these findings support the role of Relpax as an effective first-line triptan option for the acute management of migraine attacks in adults when taken at the onset of symptoms.
Relpax (eletriptan) may interact with certain medications that affect serotonin levels or drug metabolism in the liver. Patients should inform their provider about all prescription drugs, OTC medications, and supplements they are taking before using Relpax.
| Drug/Drug Class | Drug Examples | Potential Interaction |
|---|---|---|
| Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors | Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Clarithromycin, Ritonavir | May significantly increase eletriptan blood levels; use within at least 72 hours of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated. |
| Other triptan medications | Sumatriptan, Rizatriptan, Zolmitriptan | Increased risk of vasospasm and cardiovascular side effects; avoid use within 24 hours. |
| Ergot‑type migraine medications | Ergotamine, Dihydroergotamine | May cause prolonged blood vessel constriction; avoid within 24 hours. |
| SSRIs / SNRIs (antidepressants) | Sertraline, Fluoxetine, Venlafaxine | May increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. |
| MAO inhibitors | Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine | May increase eletriptan exposure and risk of adverse effects. |
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Patients should always consult their provider before combining Relpax with other medications to reduce the risk of potentially serious interactions.
Alternatives to Relpax (eletriptan) are typically other triptan medications used for migraine treatment. The most appropriate option depends on the patient’s medical history, migraine severity, and treatment response. Common Relpax alternatives include:
Relpax is one of several triptan medications used for migraines. Compared with some triptans, eletriptan may provide longer-lasting relief for certain patients.
The cost of Relpax (eletriptan) in the U.S. can be high, which may make migraine treatment difficult for some patients without adequate insurance coverage. Polar Bear Meds helps patients access medications by connecting them with licensed Canadian pharmacies that dispense prescription drugs in accordance with pharmacy regulations.
Patients who choose to order Relpax online from Canada through Polar Bear Meds may find prices lower than many U.S. retail pharmacies. A valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is required, and the medication should only be used under medical supervision.
New customers may also receive 10% off with the coupon code “WELCOMEPB10.” Orders are typically shipped via Xpress Post within about 3–5 business days, although delivery times and pricing may vary depending on pharmacy supply, location, and other factors.
Polar Bear Meds ships prescription medications to patients across the United States through licensed partner pharmacies.
The information provided on this drug page is for general informational purposes only. This page is not intended to replace any professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing your Relpax (eletriptan) dose. In case of a medical emergency, severe side effects, suspected overdose, or allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention. Patients should consult a healthcare provider if migraines become more frequent or if medication is needed more than 10 days per month.
Dr. Jackson Miller is a board-certified medicine physician & hospitalist. He is a healthcare professional with a strong background in patient care. With years of experience and a patient-first approach, he believes the foundation of good health is a patient who feels informed and empowered. He contributes to medical content review, drawing on his background in clinical practice and patient education. He focuses on presenting health information in a clear, accurate, and accessible way to help readers make informed decisions. His work emphasizes clarity, evidence-based guidance, and understandable explanations of medical topics.
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