ERGOTAMINES

As a migraine begins, blood vessels in the brain swell, contributing to pain that accompanies the severe headache. Migraine doctors prescribe ergotamines for patients who need a chronic migraine treatment but do not suffer from frequent migraine attacks. After a migraine has begun, ergotamines narrow blood vessels to ease the pain. Ergotamines match up with 5HT receptors, which are on the blood vessels in the brain. The ergotamines reduce the inflammation to narrow the blood vessels, taking the pressure of the blood vessels off of nearby tissue and ridding the pain. They can be administered through an injection, a nasal spray, a tablet or a suppository.

Ergotamines are sometimes known to be less effective than triptans; however, for patients who do not respond to triptans, migraine doctors may recommend dihydroergotamine, which provides relief from some migraines.

Though ergotamines can greatly reduce pain, risks for patients who take the medication still remain. Ergotamines can cause side effects like stomach irritation, uterus cramps, skin tingling, drowsiness and dizziness. The medication can also damage the inner lining of blood vessels. Dihydroergotamine can even cause negative effects, such as diarrhea. Patients should not take ergotamines if they suffer from certain conditions, like glaucoma, irregular heartbeat or kidney disease, as well as many other health conditions.