Key takeaways
- Both are triptans, but they are separate medicines with different products and labeling.
- Migraine diagnosis, attack pattern, cardiovascular history, other medicines, and prior response require review.
- These medicines are discussed for acute treatment, not as automatic substitutes or universal prevention plans.
How they compare
EDITORIAL GUIDETopicSumatriptansumatriptan succinateRizatriptanrizatriptan benzoate
Medication familyTriptan (selective serotonin receptor agonist)Triptan (selective serotonin receptor agonist)
Common discussionAcute treatment of migraine in eligible patientsAcute treatment of migraine in eligible patients
Product formMultiple product forms, including oral tabletsOral tablet and orally disintegrating tablet products
AccessPrescription requiredPrescription required
DecisionRequires an individual clinician reviewRequires an individual clinician review
Primary sources
Labeling can change. Use the current FDA prescribing information and speak with a licensed clinician or pharmacist before making a treatment decision.