Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT Side Effects: Common, Mild, and Serious Explained

Overview

If you're dealing with migraines, your healthcare provider may recommend Maxalt or Maxalt-MLT (rizatriptan benzoate) as a treatment option.

Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT are prescription medications designed to alleviate migraine attacks, whether accompanied by aura or not. These treatments are suitable for adults and some pediatric patients.

Maxalt is available as a swallowable tablet, while Maxalt-MLT (known as Maxalt Melt internationally) is a tablet that dissolves directly in your mouth.

Both medications contain the active ingredient rizatriptan benzoate and are taken only when a migraine occurs—not as a daily preventive measure.

For comprehensive details on Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT, refer to our detailed guide.

Like all medications, Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT can cause side effects ranging from mild to severe. Continue reading to understand these effects and how to manage them.

Common Side Effects of Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT

Users of Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT may experience various side effects. The most frequently reported include:

• Dizziness
• Excessive drowsiness
• Fatigue or low energy
• Sensation of tightness, heaviness, or pressure in the jaw, throat, neck, or chest
• Weakness

Further details on additional mild and serious side effects follow below.

Mild Side Effects to Watch For

In addition to the common side effects, some patients have reported:

• Dizziness
• Excessive sleepiness
• Fatigue
• Pressure or tightness in the jaw, throat, neck, or chest
• Weakness
• Memory loss*

*See the "Side Effects Explained" section for more information.

Most mild side effects are temporary and manageable. However, if symptoms persist or cause discomfort, consult your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue Maxalt or Maxalt-MLT without medical advice.

Additional mild side effects may occur; consult the prescribing information for a full list.

Note: The FDA monitors medication side effects post-approval. To report a side effect, visit MedWatch.

Serious Side Effects That Require Immediate Attention

Though rare, serious side effects can occur with Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT. These include:

• Elevated blood pressure
• Vasospasm (sudden narrowing of arteries)
• Severe heart issues such as heart attack or arrhythmia
• Stroke or cerebral bleeding
• Allergic reactions*†
• Rebound headaches*
• Serotonin syndrome*

If you experience any serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. For life-threatening symptoms or emergencies, call 911 or your local emergency services.

*Refer to the "Side Effects Explained" section below.
†While allergic reactions are possible, their occurrence in clinical studies remains unclear.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT Side Effects

Here are answers to common queries regarding these medications’ side effects.

Are the side effects of Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT the same?

Yes, both forms share the same active ingredient, rizatriptan, so their side effect profiles are similar despite differences in administration (tablet vs. dissolvable wafer). For personalized advice, consult your doctor.

Can Maxalt or Maxalt-MLT be used for cluster or tension headaches?

These medications are not FDA-approved for cluster or tension headaches and are rarely prescribed off-label for these conditions. Discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider if you suffer from these headache types.

Is there a higher risk of side effects with a 10 mg dose compared to 5 mg?

Taking 10 mg may increase the likelihood of side effects compared to 5 mg. Brand-name versions are only available in 10 mg, while generics come in 5 mg. Consult your doctor about dose adjustments or tablet splitting.

Understanding Specific Side Effects

Rebound Headache

Overusing Maxalt or Maxalt-MLT can lead to rebound headaches, characterized by an increase in migraine frequency.

Management: Avoid exceeding prescribed doses and inform your doctor if migraines worsen in frequency.

Memory Loss

Rarely, memory loss may occur, presenting as forgetfulness, misplacing items, repetitive questioning, or disorientation.

Management: Report these symptoms promptly to your healthcare provider for possible medication adjustments.

Serotonin Syndrome

A rare but serious condition caused by excessive serotonin levels, especially when combined with certain antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs). Symptoms include restlessness, nausea, sweating, tremors, rapid heartbeat, and muscle rigidity.

Management: Discontinue the medication and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

Allergic Reactions

Possible allergic responses range from mild rash and itching to severe swelling and breathing difficulties.

Management: Mild reactions can be treated with antihistamines or topical creams under medical guidance. Severe reactions require emergency care. Discuss continuation or alternative treatments with your doctor.

Tracking Side Effects
Keep a detailed record of any side effects, including dosage, timing, symptoms, and impact on daily life. Sharing this information with your healthcare provider helps optimize your treatment.

Precautions and Considerations Before Using Maxalt or Maxalt-MLT

Discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting these medications, especially if you have:

• Heart conditions like coronary artery disease
• Hemiplegic or basilar migraines
• Ischemic bowel disease
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Phenylketonuria (PKU) – Maxalt-MLT contains phenylalanine and may not be suitable
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• History of transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke
• Known allergies to these drugs or their ingredients

Alcohol and Maxalt/Maxalt-MLT

There are no known direct interactions between alcohol and these medications. However, alcohol can trigger migraines in some individuals. Consult your doctor about safe alcohol consumption during treatment.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of Maxalt and Maxalt-MLT during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Speak with your healthcare provider to weigh potential risks and benefits.

Questions to Discuss With Your Doctor

To ensure safe and effective use, consider asking your doctor:

• How can I best manage any side effects from Maxalt or Maxalt-MLT?
• Do my health conditions increase my risk of side effects?
• Could my other medications interact and increase side effect risks?

For ongoing support and insights, subscribe to Healthline’s migraine newsletter.

Pharmacist Q&A

Q: Does age affect the risk of side effects from Maxalt or Maxalt-MLT?

A: While data is limited for those over 65, aging can affect how your body processes medications and increase side effect risks. Older adults often take multiple medications, raising the possibility of interactions. Your doctor may start you on a lower dose and adjust as needed. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Information provided is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.

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