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The Side Effects of Ergotamine

Ergotamine is a medication used in the prevention and treatment of severe headaches. This ergot derivative works by narrowing the blood vessels in the brain and in the process helps relieve pain associated with migraine headaches. As with any other type of headache medication, there are a number of side effects associated with its use.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • Some of the most common side effects reported by users include dizziness, nausea and vomiting. While they are considered the most common problems associated with using the drug, they are uncommon and do not affect most users.

    Severe Side Effects

    • There is also the possibility of experiencing some severe side effects while using Ergotamine. Some of these side effects include itching, hives, tightness of the chest, difficulty breathing, rash, swelling of the hands or feet, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, muscle pain and weakness, severe headache, severe dizziness and unusual swelling. These side effects only affect a small number of users and not common in most people.

    Important Safety Information

    • This medication may cause dizziness and drowsiness and therefore should never be taken while operating any type of machinery, including driving an automobile. Exercise extreme caution when allowing children or adults over 65 to use the drug as they are usually more sensitive to the above side effects.

    Usage

    • Always take Ergotamine at first sign of migraine headaches in conjunction with the dosage recommendations given by your doctor. The drug is administered in pill form and should never be broken up, chewed or swallowed. Place the pill underneath your tongue and allow the drug to dissolve. If more than one pill is needed, be sure to wait 30 minutes before taking your second dose.

    Warning

    • If you experience any of the aforementioned side effects while using the drug, contact your doctor immediately.

      If an overdose is suspected, head directly to your local emergency room for treatment.

      Ergotamine is used for the treatment of migraine headaches only and should never be used for any other ailment.

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