Ergotamine

Ergotamine should be used in patients not benefited by simple. If given early in attack, relief is often dramatic and lower doses suffice. It is a potent vasoconstrictor and also has alpha- adrenergic blocking action. It is used in the acute management of migraine and related vascular headaches but not for prophylaxis.

Ergotamine Indication:

Migraine, cluster headache and vascular headache.

Ergotamine Dosage

1 mg is given at half hour intervals till relief is obtained. Maximum: 6mg.

Ergotamine Contraindication

Coronary, peripheral or occlusive vascular disease. Severe hypertension, coronary artery disease. Impaired hepatic or renal functions. Pregnancy, lactation, septic conditions.

Special precautions while taking Ergotamine

Do not exceed the indicated dose.

Pediatrics: Not usually prescribed

Pregnancy: Not usually prescribed

Lactation: not recommended

Elderly: use with caution.

Side effects of Ergotamine

Nausea, vomiting. GI disturbances, pallor, coldness and tingling of the extremities.

Ergotamine Drug interaction

Smoking, beta-blockers and methylsergide increases risk of vascular occlusion. Simultaneous use of oral contraceptives increase risk of thrombosis. Erythromycin increases plasma concentration of Ergotamine.

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