Eletriptan (Relpax) and other triptans for migraine

Eletriptan 40 mg and 80 mg tablets were listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme as authority required (streamlined) on 1 October 2010 (Table 1).^1,2 Eletriptan has been available overseas for several years.³ Avoid use within 48 hours of cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole, erythromycin, protease inhibitors), as this causes increased plasma concentrations of eletriptan.⁴

All triptans are effective for migraine^5,6 but individual response cannot be predicted.⁷ If the first triptan fails, try another.

Table 1.
Summary of triptans listed on the PBS⁸

Generic	Brand names	PBS listing*
		Authority required (streamlined)	Authority required	Special patient contribution†
Eletriptan	Relpax
Naratriptan	Naramig
Rizatriptan	Maxalt
Sumatriptan	Imigran Sumagran Sumatab
Zolmitriptan	Zomig
* Restricted to people with past migraines that have usually failed to respond to analgesics † Unless exempted, this is payable in addition to the relevant patient copayment for concessional and general patients. Exemptions may be granted for people where adverse events, drug interactions, patient confusion or adverse clinical consequences preclude the use of other triptans. Refer to www.pbs.gov.au for details