Ergotamine

Ergotamine

Ergotamine is an alkaloid with a brute or molecular formula: C33H35N5O5.
Ergot helps to alleviate migraines by restricting blood vessels in the brain.
Typically, it is used as therapy against acute attacks of migraine when they do not respond to analgesics.
The molecule is structurally similar to neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and adrenaline. This allows it to bind to their receptors, acting as an agonist. The anti-migraine effect is due to the constriction of extracerebral intracranial vessels, mediated by the 5-HT1B receptor, and inhibition of neurotransmission in the trigeminal by the 5-HT1D receptors.
Ergotamine is taken orally at the first signs of a migraine attack according to the formulations indicated by the doctor.
Possible adverse effects of ergotamine include: dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
It is also important to contact a doctor immediately in case of manifestations such as: skin rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips and tongue, chest pains, rapid, slow or irregular heartbeat , muscle aches, weakness in limbs, numb, cold, blue or stinging hands or feet, persistent headache, persistent dizziness, shortness of breath, swelling, weakness.

Ergotamine can cause dizziness which can interfere with the ability to drive or operate dangerous machinery and which can be aggravated by alcohol so it is important to inform your doctor before taking it, also for any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs or foods of the other medicines, herbal medicines and supplements you are taking, in particular antifungals, HIV drugs, delavirdine, efavirenz, antibiotics, beta blockers, zileuton, droxidopa or sympathetic mimetics.
In addition, the drug should not be given to children and should be given with caution to the elderly, who may be more sensitive to its effects.

Warning: The information given is not medical advice and may not be accurate. The contents are for illustrative purposes only and do not replace medical advice.