Brand Name: Onzetra Xsail
Generic Name: sumatriptan nasal powder
Medication Class: Serotonin 5-HT receptor agonist

Similar Drugs: sumatriptan (Imitrex), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt), zolmitriptan (Zomig), amlotriptan (Axert), frovatriptan (Frova), eletriptan (Relpax)
Manufacturer: Avanir Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
FDA Approval Date: January 2016

What is Onzetra Xsail and its mechanism of action?

Onzetra Xsail is used to treat migraines. It is a powder that is inhaled by using a special breath-powered delivery device called Xsail. Migraine headaches are a type of a severe headache that affect millions of Americans. Migraine headaches can be debilitating and often significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. There is no cure for migraines. Current treatments are used to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks and enable patients to return to normal functioning. The exact cause of migraines is unknown. Dilated blood vessels in the brain may play a role in the development of migraines.

The medication in Onzetra Xsail is sumatriptan, a selective 5-hydroxy-tryptamine (5-HT_1B/1D) receptor agonist. Sumatriptan stimulates 5-HT₁ receptors on blood vessels in the brain and reduces vasodilation of the blood vessels (constricts blood vessels). Sumatriptan also blocks the effect of chemicals that cause inflammation and pain. Other sumatriptan products are available as tablets, transdermal patch, nasal spray (solution), and subcutaneous injection.  

What is Onzetra Xsail used for treating?

Onzetra Xsail is used to treat acute migraines with or without aura in adults.

How effective is Onzetra Xsail?

The effect of Onzetra Xsail for treating acute migraine attacks was studied primarily in female caucasians between the ages of 19 to 64 years old.

The study evaluated headache relief, defined as a reduction from moderate to severe pain to mild or no pain. Two hours after receiving treatment, 68% of the patients in Onzetra Xsail group achieved headache relief, versus 45% in the placebo group. The Onzetra Xsail group also had fewer episodes of migraine-associated nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia compared to placebo. 

Next: Side Effects of  Onzetra Xsail