Ever hesitated before taking a migraine pill, worried about the side effects? You’re not alone. Migraines can be brutal—the pounding head, the nausea, even light feeling like knives. For many adults, Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) offers fast relief by blocking migraine signals in the brain.
But before starting any medication, it’s natural to ask: What about Nurtec side effects? Are they mild, rare, or something more serious? In this guide, we’ll break down what studies and doctors have found, so you can understand the risks, the common side effects, and when to call your doctor.
Nurtec Side Effects: What Patients Should Know
Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) is generally considered safe, with a strong safety profile backed by clinical trials. In a study of 682 adults taking Nurtec for acute migraine, only about 2% reported nausea compared with 0.4% in the placebo group. For those using it as prevention, the results were similar: out of 370 patients, 2.7% reported nausea and 2.4% experienced mild stomach pain. That means nearly 97% had no issues at all.
Still, like any medication, Nurtec can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but a few rare ones may require medical attention.
Now, let's see the most common and also rare side effects of Nurtec, plus tips on how to manage them safely in the next section.
6 Common Nurtec Side Effects and How to Manage Them
1. Nausea
Nausea is the most common side effect. Sometimes it’s caused by the drug itself, other times by the migraine.
How to manage it:
-
Take Nurtec with a light snack
-
Sip cold water after taking it
-
Ask your doctor about anti-nausea medications
Nausea usually fades within an hour. If it persists, your provider may suggest adjusting the timing.
2. Abdominal Pain
Some patients notice mild stomach aches, especially when using Nurtec for prevention.
What to do:
-
Avoid taking it on an empty stomach
-
Rest or lie down briefly after dosing
-
Use a warm compress if discomfort lingers
Persistent or worsening pain should be reported to your doctor.
3. Indigestion
Feeling bloated or overly full can occur, since Nurtec may briefly slow digestion.
Tips that help:
-
Avoid heavy meals before taking it
-
Take a short walk after eating
-
Try ginger tea for relief
This usually settles within a day or two.
4. Allergic Reactions (Rare)
Mild cases may include rashes or itchiness. In rare situations, swelling of the face, lips, or throat may occur.
Seek emergency help if you notice:
-
Trouble breathing
-
Rash with fever
-
Face swelling or chest tightness
These reactions are very rare (affecting less than 1% of users) but require immediate action.
5. Liver Concerns
Since Nurtec is processed by the liver, those with liver conditions should be cautious.
Watch for warning signs:
-
Yellowing skin or eyes
-
Dark urine
-
Ongoing abdominal pain
Doctors may recommend blood tests for long-term users.
6. Heart-Related Issues (Very Rare)
Nurtec can occasionally affect heart rate in sensitive individuals.
Be cautious if you have:
-
Rapid heartbeat or chest pressure
-
A history of heart disease
-
Medications like amiodarone or ranolazine (drug interactions possible)
Always let your provider monitor your condition.
Rare but Notable Side Effects
-
Blurred vision or light flashes
-
Dizziness or faintness
-
Headaches that worsen with overuse
These are uncommon but should not be ignored. Your doctor may adjust the dose or frequency.
Nurtec Side Effects: Quick Recap
| Side Effect | Frequency | Management Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | Common | Take with food, sip water |
| Abdominal pain | Sometimes | Rest, use warm compress |
| Indigestion | Occasional | Light meals, hydration, ginger tea |
| Rash/itchiness | Rare | See a provider if persistent |
| Liver issues | Rare | Monitor symptoms, blood tests |
| Heart concerns | Very rare | Check interactions, doctor monitoring |
Why Do Side Effects from Nurtec Happen?
Every medication shifts something in the body. Nurtec works by blocking CGRP receptors, a signal involved in migraine pain. Blocking that pathway also touches other processes, which explains small reactions.
Reasons side effects happen can include:
-
The body is adjusting during the first few doses.
-
Interactions with other drugs or supplements.
-
Sensitivity to the CGRP inhibitor mechanism itself.
-
Pre-existing stomach, liver, or circulation conditions.
Doctors stress that the serious side effects Nurtec causes are uncommon. Still, knowing what might trigger them helps patients avoid surprises.
When Do Nurtec Side Effects Usually Appear?
Timing matters. Some patients ask right away: when do Nurtec side effects start? Usually, the answer is “fast.” If nausea is going to show up, it happens within hours of the first tablet.
Patterns doctors see most often:
-
First dose: nausea or stomach upset if it’s going to happen.
-
First week: occasional dizziness or fatigue.
-
Over months: very rare cases of constipation or weight change.
And the other common question: how long do Nurtec side effects last? For most, they fade within a day. If something lingers, it’s time to check in with a doctor.
Who Is More Likely to Experience Side Effects?
Not everyone shares the same risks. Some groups stand out as more likely to notice reactions. Doctors flag them early to make sure treatment stays safe.
People at higher risk:
-
Allergy history: A rare Nurtec allergic reaction can include swelling of the face, lips, or throat. This has been reported in less than 1% of users.
-
High blood pressure: The label includes warnings about worsening readings. This is one of the Nurtec warnings and precautions patients need to know.
-
Circulation problems: Raynaud’s phenomenon can flare up, leaving toes or fingers cold or painful.
-
Liver or kidney issues. Medication may clear more slowly, raising exposure.
-
Pregnancy and breastfeeding. There’s not enough long-term data yet, so doctors tread carefully.
Higher Risk Groups
|
Group |
Concern |
Suggested Action |
|
Allergy-prone |
Swelling or breathing difficulty |
Call emergency care if severe |
|
Hypertension patients |
Blood pressure may increase |
Monitor readings regularly |
|
Circulation issues |
Raynaud’s symptoms |
Report changes quickly |
|
Liver or kidney problems |
Slower drug clearance |
Close monitoring by a doctor |
|
Pregnant or breastfeeding |
Safety not confirmed |
Discuss alternatives to Nurtec |
These details help answer who should not take Nurtec. Anyone with uncontrolled conditions should get extra medical advice before starting.
How to Manage and Reduce Side Effects Safely
Side effects don’t always mean stopping the drug. Most are mild and manageable with a few changes. Patients often ask, “How to manage Nurtec side effects at home?” Doctors usually share the same practical tips.
1. Daily Basics
-
Drink more water. It helps ease nausea and digestion.
-
Eat lighter meals before taking a tablet. Heavy foods can worsen stomach upset.
-
Keep a migraine diary. Track dosage, side effects, and relief.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments
-
Stick to a sleep routine. Poor rest makes migraines worse and makes the body more sensitive to medication.
-
Reduce alcohol and caffeine. Both can interact with migraines and worsen symptoms.
-
Exercise gently. Regular movement improves circulation and lowers triggers.
3. Medical Support
If reactions keep happening, providers may adjust timing or explore other options like Ubrelvy vs Nurtec side effects comparisons or Emgality vs Nurtec for prevention.
The key message: Side effects are easy to handle if you stay consistent with habits and follow medical advice. Patients often report that relief far outweighs short-lived discomfort.
What to Do if Side Effects Don’t Go Away
Sometimes, the problem doesn’t pass. Patients ask, “What to do if Nurtec side effects don’t go away?” The answer is to reach out, not wait.
Situations that need medical attention:
-
Nausea lasting several days.
-
Allergic swelling or breathing trouble.
-
Blood pressure that keeps climbing.
-
Circulation changes that cause pain or color shifts in fingers or toes.
Most people never face these, but ignoring them isn’t wise. Doctors may suggest a switch, review for CGRP inhibitor side effects, or test different migraine medication side effects to compare outcomes.
Are the Benefits of Nurtec Worth the Risks?
Here’s the question every patient and doctor weighs: relief or risk. For most, the balance is clear. Migraines cost hours, sometimes whole days. Nurtec cuts through the pain quickly and, in many cases, prevents attacks from showing up at all.
Points to consider:
-
Studies show nausea affected only 2–3% of patients.
-
An analysis of 5.4 million reports identified just over 10,000 linked to rimegepant, with rare new signals like belching or motion sickness.
-
Severe outcomes remain extremely uncommon.
For many, the benefits dominate. When compared with Nurtec's long-term side effects, which are rare, the trade-off makes sense. Relief means more normal days. And for those still unsure, there are always alternatives to Nurtec to discuss with providers.
Precautions You Should Always Keep in Mind
1. Take It Only When Needed
Nurtec is not for chronic migraines. It’s only for acute relief or episodic prevention. Don’t pop it like candy.
2. Don’t Double Up Doses
One dose in 24 hours is the rule. More won’t work faster. It can backfire and make things worse.
3. Skip If You’re Allergic
If you've had reactions to similar drugs, tell your provider before starting.
4. Be Careful With Liver or Kidney Issues
These organs help flush the drug. If they’re not strong, Nurtec can build up in your system.
5. Don’t Self-Treat During Pregnancy
Nurtec hasn’t been studied enough during pregnancy. Your doctor will guide you.
6. Be Watchful While Breastfeeding
Nurtec can pass through milk. We don’t know how it affects newborns. Always talk to your pediatrician.
What to Do in Case of Overdose?
Overuse doesn’t mean more relief. It might bring on:
-
Headache rebound
-
Stomach upset
-
Dizziness
Call your provider. Or if it’s serious, call poison control at 1-800-222-1222.
Final Thoughts
Living with migraines is exhausting; they often strike without warning and disrupt your day. For many people, Nurtec ODT provides meaningful relief without the drowsiness or heavy drawbacks of some other treatments. Like any medication, Nurtec side effects can occur, but they are usually mild and temporary. The rare but serious reactions are well-documented and carefully monitored by doctors. Most patients find that the benefits outweigh the risks, and if side effects don’t improve, alternative options are available. The safest approach is to stay in touch with your doctor and discuss what works best for your migraine management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Nurtec cause weight gain or hair loss?
Current data shows these effects are uncommon. Report them if they appear.
Is Nurtec safe for long-term use?
Studies confirm strong safety over months of preventive treatment.
Does Nurtec affect sleep?
Most patients report no impact on sleep patterns.
Can Nurtec interact with vitamins or supplements?
Yes, share your full list with your doctor to avoid hidden interactions.
How fast does Nurtec work?
Many patients feel relief in about two hours after a dose.
What to avoid when taking Nurtec?
Avoid grapefruit juices, cyclosporine, amiodarone, anti-seizure medications, and supplements like St. John's wort with Nurtec as they can make Nurtec less effective.
Does Nurtec cause long-term side effects?
No, it doesn't cause long-term effects. Nausea can resolve once the body gets adjusted to the medication.
Does Nurtec cause constipation?
No, constipation is not the side effect of Nurtec. It can occur due to other reasons such as other medications.
Does Nurtec raise blood pressure?
No, this medication doesn't raise blood pressure. High blood pressure can be the side effects of other medications like sumatriptan used to treat migraines.
Can Nurtec trigger a rebound headache if used too often?
Yes. Taking it more than prescribed can lead to rebound migraines. Always wait at least 24 hours between doses.
Can I take Nurtec alongside birth control pills?
Yes. There’s no known interaction between Nurtec and oral contraceptives.
Does Nurtec interact with caffeine or energy drinks?
Caffeine doesn’t cancel out Nurtec. But high caffeine may worsen nausea. Use in moderation.
What if I miss a preventive dose of Nurtec?
Skip it. Don’t double up the next day. Just return to your schedule and talk to your doctor if this happens often.
Reviewed by
