Intranasal zolmitriptan

Intranasal zolmitriptan has recently been launched in the US and Canada and is a novel formulation of the antimigraine drug zolmitriptan. This drug has been used extensively in its oral formulation. The intranasal formulation offers a more rapid onset of action. Pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated that it is absorbed rapidly into the systemic circulation and traces can be seen in the brain within 5 min. The onset of efficacy in the Real Life Intranasal Zolmitriptan Exposure (REALIZE) study was measurable at 10 min and at 15 min in the US 22 study, which demonstrates rapid absorption and effect at the 5-HT1B/1D receptors. This article reviews the initial studies of intranasal zolmitriptan; three of the most recent studies will be examined in detail.