Examples

How It Works

Ergotamines narrow (constrict) blood vessels in the brain. It is not clear how they work to stop a migraine. These medicines are available in different forms depending on the drug, including tablets, nasal spray, suppositories, and injections.

Why It Is Used

Ergotamines may be used to stop or treat symptoms of an emerging migraine.

How Well It Works

Ergotamines have been used for many years to treat headache pain and other symptoms associated with migraines. But these medicines may not be as effective as other migraine medicines, such as triptans.¹

Dihydroergotamine can be effective in some people who do not get relief from triptans.¹

Side Effects

All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
• Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
• If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:

• Trouble breathing.
• Hives.
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor right away if you have:

• Signs of an overdose, such as:
  • Dizziness, weakness, or extreme drowsiness.
  • Seizures.
  • Severe nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea.
• Signs of a problem with blood circulation, such as:
  • Chest pain.
  • Confusion.
  • Fast or slow heartbeat.
  • Muscle pain or pain in the legs or arms.
  • Pale or blue-colored hands or feet.
  • Vision changes.

Check with your doctor if you have:

• Itching.
• Tingling or weakness in fingers or toes.
• Swelling in the feet, lower legs, or fingers.

Common side effects of this medicine include:

• Burning, tingling, dryness or pain in the nose (nasal spray).
• Change in the sense of taste (nasal spray).
• Diarrhea.
• Nausea.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)