Maxalt dosage: How to use rizatriptan for migraines

If you get migraine attacks, knowing the right Maxalt dosage can make a big difference. Maxalt (rizatriptan) is a fast-acting triptan that stops migraine pain for many people. Below are clear, practical rules most doctors follow—use them as a starting point, then check with your prescriber for personal advice.

Typical dosing and how to take it

For most adults the usual dose is 5 mg or 10 mg taken by mouth at the first sign of a migraine. If the first dose only helps a little, you may take a second dose after 2 hours. Do not take more than the maximum in a day—talk to your doctor about your exact limit, but commonly the total is kept below 30 mg in 24 hours.

If your doctor prescribes the lower 5 mg dose, take that. Some people start with 5 mg to check how they react and move to 10 mg later if needed. Take Maxalt with or without food. Keep a clock so you don’t accidentally take a repeat dose too soon.

Safety tips, interactions, and special situations

Certain medicines and health conditions change how you should use Maxalt. If you take a beta-blocker like propranolol or have liver problems, doctors often recommend using the lower 5 mg dose. Don’t combine Maxalt with other triptans or ergots within 24 hours—mixing can increase side effects. Also, tell your doctor about antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) because rare serotonin effects can happen when combined.

Watch for chest pressure, shortness of breath, or severe dizziness after taking Maxalt. These are reasons to stop and get medical help. If you have heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or stroke risk factors, your provider will check if a triptan is safe for you before prescribing.

For pregnant or breastfeeding people, discuss risks and benefits with your clinician. Pediatric dosing and rules differ—do not use adult instructions for kids unless a pediatrician tells you to.

Keep a migraine diary for a few weeks: note dose, time, pain level before and after, and any side effects. That makes follow-up visits more useful and helps your doctor fine-tune the dose. If Maxalt stops working as well or you need it very often, mention it—overuse can cause rebound headaches and needs a plan.

Final quick checklist: take 5–10 mg at migraine start, wait 2 hours for a repeat dose if needed, avoid mixing with other triptans or ergots within 24 hours, use lower doses if on propranolol or with liver issues, and call your doctor about heart symptoms or frequent use. When in doubt, ask your prescriber—personal factors matter more than generic rules.