Is Generic Amerge (Naratriptan) Gluten-Free?

[Alison2]

Last month, generic versions of the migraine drug Amerge became available. I'm required to buy generics by my HMO, if possible, plus they are much cheaper. Both my pharmacist and I have tried with great difficulty to find out if the Naratriptan manufactured by Roxane Pharmaceuticals is gluten-free. The answer we finally received is that Roxane cannot guarantee that the medication is gluten-free because some of their ingredient suppliers do not test for gluten.

Does anyone know whether the Naratriptan manufactured by Roxane, Teva Pharmaceuticals of Paddock Pharmaceuticals is gluten-free? I've done research on gfmedications.com, glutenfreedrugs.com, etc. and Naratriptan is NOT listed at all. HELP -- I take this medication 10-12x/month to manage migraine pain/symptoms, and I'm almost out!

Thanks, Alison

[tarnalberry]

The statement you got from the manufacturer is a standard cover-your-arse statement, and many of us will forego the legal nuances and use such products.

BTW, if you are using rescue medications for migraines more than once a week, you should talk to your doctor about prophylactic treatment. Triptans aren't fabulous for taking often (though I understand, sometimes, there's no choice).

[cap6]

Some Teva generic drugs are made in India which I believe can use wheat as a binder. (correct if wrong please). I recently had to change a medication back to the name brand because of that.

[BethM55]

Last month, generic versions of the migraine drug Amerge became available. I'm required to buy generics by my HMO, if possible, plus they are much cheaper. Both my pharmacist and I have tried with great difficulty to find out if the Naratriptan manufactured by Roxane Pharmaceuticals is gluten-free. The answer we finally received is that Roxane cannot guarantee that the medication is gluten-free because some of their ingredient suppliers do not test for gluten.

Does anyone know whether the Naratriptan manufactured by Roxane, Teva Pharmaceuticals of Paddock Pharmaceuticals is gluten-free? I've done research on gfmedications.com, glutenfreedrugs.com, etc. and Naratriptan is NOT listed at all. HELP -- I take this medication 10-12x/month to manage migraine pain/symptoms, and I'm almost out!

Thanks, Alison

Hi, Alison. You might want to check out Petadolex, by Enzymatic Therapy. (enzy.com) It is a standardized extract of the herb butterbur, andhas been double blind studied as a migraine preventive. Information on the studies and research is on their website. As far as I know it's gluten free. I've used it successfully to fend off or lessen migraines. You might want to talk to your doctor about it if you want to try it, to be sure it is ok to take with your other medications.