For people who live with migraines, even a normal day can be derailed by sudden, intense pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and overwhelming fatigue. Finding a medication that brings real, fast relief can make all the difference. Reyvow (lasmiditan) is a prescription medication developed specifically to treat acute migraine attacks, helping patients regain control when migraines strike. 

Reyvow belongs to a newer class of migraine medications known as serotonin (5-HT₁F) receptor agonists, also called ditans. Unlike older migraine drugs such as triptans, which constrict blood vessels, Reyvow works without affecting blood flow making it an important option for patients who cannot take triptans due to cardiovascular concerns. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019, Reyvow represents a modern, targeted approach to migraine management, offering relief when symptoms begin. 

What does Reyvow do? 

Reyvow is used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults. It is not meant for the prevention of migraines but rather to relieve symptoms once an attack begins. 

When taken at the onset of a migraine, Reyvow can help reduce or eliminate pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Many patients report being able to return to daily activities within a few hours after taking the medication. 

Clinical studies show that Reyvow provides meaningful relief: in trials, up to 40% of patients were pain-free within two hours of taking a dose, and many also reported being free from their most bothersome migraine symptoms, such as nausea or light sensitivity (FDA, 2024). 

Because Reyvow works through a different mechanism than triptans, it can be a valuable alternative for people who experience side effects or have health conditions that prevent them from using triptan medications. 

How does Reyvow work? 

Reyvow’s active ingredient, lasmiditan, targets serotonin 5-HT₁F receptors in the brain. These receptors play a key role in controlling pain pathways and inflammation involved in migraine attacks. 

During a migraine, the trigeminal nerve, a major pain pathway in the head becomes activated, leading to the release of inflammatory chemicals and transmission of pain signals to the brain. Lasmiditan binds to 5-HT₁F receptors on these nerve endings, helping block the release of pain-causing neurotransmitters and calm nerve activity. 

This action helps stop a migraine attack without constricting blood vessels, unlike triptans that target 5-HT₁B and 5-HT₁D receptors. Clinically, this makes Reyvow a safer option for individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, or a history of stroke, who may not be able to take vasoconstrictive migraine drugs. 

The medication’s non-vascular mechanism is a major advancement in migraine care focusing directly on pain signaling rather than blood vessel changes. 

Reyvow side effects 

Reyvow is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Most are mild and tend to resolve as the body adjusts to the medication. 

Common side effects may include: 

• Dizziness or fatigue 
   

• Tingling sensations (paresthesia) 
   

• Drowsiness or sedation 
   

• Nausea 
   

• Dry mouth 

Because Reyvow can cause significant drowsiness, patients are advised not to drive or operate machinery for at least 8 hours after taking it,  even if they feel fully awake. This safety precaution is required by the FDA because the medication may impair coordination and alertness longer than patients expect. 

Serious side effects (rare) may include: 

• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling of the face or throat 
   

• Serotonin syndrome, especially if taken with other serotonergic drugs like certain antidepressants (symptoms include agitation, confusion, sweating, or muscle stiffness) 

People with liver disease, kidney disease, or a history of substance use disorder should discuss these conditions with their doctor before starting Reyvow. It should also be used cautiously in patients taking medications that affect serotonin levels. 

If any severe or unexpected reactions occur, medical attention should be sought immediately. 

Reyvow dosage 

Reyvow, an oral tablet, treats acute migraine attacks, not as a daily preventive. Take a single dose at migraine onset; do not exceed one dose in 24 hours or combine with other migraine-specific medications without medical advice. Dosage is individualized by a healthcare provider. 

Doctors monitor patients for side effects like dizziness, fatigue, or coordination changes. Due to Reyvow’s sedative effects, providers assess a patient’s routine and other medications for safe use. Older adults or those with liver/kidney issues may need dose adjustments or closer observation. Consistent communication with the provider ensures safety and effectiveness. 

Does Reyvow have a generic version? 

As of 2025, Reyvow (lasmiditan) does not have a generic version available in the United States. It is sold exclusively under the brand name Reyvow, manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company. However, international versions may exist in other markets. 

As a new, patented drug, a generic version is years away. Patients can inquire about savings programs or insurance coverage. Once available, generic versions must meet FDA quality, safety, and effectiveness standards. 

Conclusion 

Reyvow (lasmiditan) is an innovative treatment designed to stop migraines quickly and effectively especially for patients who cannot use traditional migraine medications. By targeting the brain’s pain pathways without constricting blood vessels, it provides a much-needed alternative for those with cardiovascular risks or poor response to triptans. 

While causing drowsiness, Reyvow is a safe and effective migraine treatment when used responsibly and with medical supervision. It can significantly reduce migraine pain and improve quality of life. Open communication with a healthcare provider is vital to monitor effects and side effects, ensuring Reyvow is a trusted part of a personalized migraine management plan. 

References 

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2024). Reyvow (lasmiditan) prescribing information. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov 
    

2. Mayo Clinic. (2024). Lasmiditan (oral route) description and precautions. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org 
    

3. MedlinePlus. (2024). Lasmiditan: Drug information. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov 
    

4. National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2024). Migraine treatment advances: Ditans and gepants. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov