Isometheptene Mucate/Dichloralphenazone/Acetaminophen

A to Z Drug Facts

 Action Isometheptene mucate acts as sympathomimetic to constrict dilated cranial and cerebral arterioles. Dichloralphenazone is mild sedative that reduces emotional reaction to pain of vascular and tension headaches. Acetaminophen is mild analgesic.

 Indications Relief of tension and vascular headaches. FDA has classified drug as possibly effective in treatment of migraine headaches.

 Contraindications Glaucoma; severe cases of renal disease; hypertension; organic heart disease; hepatic disease; MAO inhibitor therapy.

 Route/Dosage

Migraine Headache

ADULTS: PO 2 capsules at once, followed by 1 capsule q hr until headache is relieved (max 5 capsules in 12 hr period).

Tension Headache

ADULTS: PO 1 to 2 capsules q 4 hr (max 8 capsules/day).

 Interactions

MAO inhibitors: May result in severe headache, hypertension, hyperpyrexia, and possible hypertensive crisis.

 Lab Test Interferences None well documented.

 Adverse Reactions

CNS: Transient dizziness or drowsiness. DERM: Rash.

 Precautions

Pregnancy: Pregnancy category undetermined. Lactation: Undetermined. Children: Safety and efficacy not established. Special risk patients: Observe caution in patients with hypertension or peripheral vascular disease and after recent CV attacks. Hepatotoxicity: Can occur with chronic ingestion of acetaminophen. Chronic alcohol abusers are especially at risk.

 Administration/Storage

• Administer at first sign of migraine headache.
• Administer with full glass of water.
• Store at room temperature in dry place in tightly closed container.

 Assessment/Interventions

• Obtain patient history, including drug history and any known allergies.
• Assess frequency, duration, location, and characteristics of chronic headaches.
• Monitor BP and pulse periodically during therapy.
• Notify physician if hypertension occurs.
• If relief from headache is not obtained, notify physician.

 Patient/Family Education

• Instruct patient to take drug at first sign of impending headache.
• Encourage patient to rest in quiet, dark room after taking drug.
• Advise patient not to drink alcoholic beverages.
• Instruct patient to notify physician of dizziness or skin rash.
• Instruct patient to notify physician if headache persists.

Books@Ovid
Copyright © 2003 Facts and Comparisons
David S. Tatro
A to Z Drug Facts