Ergotamine

Information about Ergotamine

Ergotamine Uses

Ergotamine is used in Acute migraine headache.

How Ergotamine works

Migraine headaches are thought to result from the dilatation of blood vessels in the head. Ergotamine is a serotonin receptor antagonist. It works by maintaining the level of serotonin (chemical messenger) in the brain, thus prevents the transmission of pain. It also inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory neuropeptide (chemical messenger) which is responsible for migraine pain. Again, it works on the activation of 5-HT1D receptors to narrow down the blood vessels to alleviate the pain.

Common side effects of Ergotamine

Nausea, Vomiting, Muscle pain, Leg pain
CONTENT DETAILS
Written By
Dr. Swati Mishra
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Khushbu Goel
DM, MD
Last updated
19 Mar 2020 | 04:08 AM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Ergotamine

ErgacapMercury Laboratories Ltd
₹671 variant(s)
ErgotabJagsonpal Pharmaceuticals Ltd
₹671 variant(s)
MethermatMakers Laboratories Ltd
₹171 variant(s)

Expert advice for Ergotamine

  • Ergotamine helps in the treatment of an acute attack of migraine.
  • Take it as soon as you notice the first sign of migraine. 
  • Some tips that may help avoid a migraine attack:
    • Have your meals at the same time everyday
    • Avoid bright lights and extreme temperatures
    • Avoid loud music and noisy places
    • Avoid chocolates,  cheese, processed food, alcohol and smoking
    • Get sufficient sleep and avoid stress
  • It should be taken at night-time before going to bed.
  • It may cause sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how Ergotamine affects you.
  • Do not stop taking the medication suddenly as it can cause worsening of headaches.

Frequently asked questions for Ergotamine

Ergotamine

Q. Is Ergotamine safe to use?

Ergotamine should not be used regularly even if you adhere to the prescribed dosage. It should not be used for prevention of migraine. There is a risk of developing ergotism which may result in decreased blood supply to the brain and may cause limb weakness, blurred vision, and slurred speech.

Q. How should Ergotamine be taken?

Take one tablet at the first sign of migraine. If the headache does not stop within 30 minutes, take half or one more tablet. Take half or one tablet every 30 minutes until the headache stops or you have taken the maximum of 3 tablets. If the headache still continues, contact your doctor. It is not recommended to take more than three tablets (6 mg) in 24 hours or 6 tablets (12 mg) in 1 week. Consult your doctor if more medicine is required.

Q. What are the symptoms of overdosage of Ergotamine?

The symptoms of overdosage of Ergotamine may include vomiting, numbness, tingling sensation, pain, blue hands and feet. Additionally, there may be a lack of pulse , dizziness or lightheadedness, faintness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, and even coma and seizures. The stomach of such patients should be cleared if vomiting has not occurred.

Q. Can I take other anti-migraine medicines along with Ergotamine?

It is important not to take zolmitriptan, almotriptan, sumatriptan, rizatriptan, and frovatriptan for 24 hours after taking Ergotamine. In addition, do not take Ergotamine for 6 hours after taking any of these medicines. Eletriptan (also used to treat migraine) and Ergotamine should not be taken within 24 hours of each other.

Q. What are the serious side effects of Ergotamine?

The serious side effects of Ergotamine include leg weakness, chest pain, rapid or slow heartbeat, dizziness, and muscle pain in the legs or arms. Ergotamine may also cause blue hands and feet, swelling, itching, pain, burning, or tingling in the fingers and toes. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Q. Can Ergotamine cause dependence?

Yes, Ergotamine may cause dependence. It should not be used on a regular basis or to prevent a migraine attack. Its regular use can cause dependence and rebound headaches which in turn may lead you to take Ergotamine more often.

Q. What should be avoided while taking Ergotamine?

Grapefruit juice should be avoided while taking Ergotamine as it can increase the risk of side effects. Do not smoke or drink alcohol while taking this medicine. If you feel drowsy after taking Ergotamine do not drive or use heavy machinery. Also, you should avoid getting pregnant and breastfeeding your baby, as Ergotamine may have harmful effects on the baby.

Q. What fungus produces Ergotamine?

Ergotamine is obtained from Claviceps species, mainly from clavicles purpurea.

Q. What class of medicine is Ergotamine?

Ergotamine belongs to ergot alkaloid class of medicines. It works by preventing blood vessels in the head from expanding and causing headaches.

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