Ergotamine

Ergotamine

Ergotamine is a medication used to treat certain types of headaches and migraines. It is derived from ergot, a fungus that grows on rye and other grains. Ergotamine works by constricting blood vessels in the brain and inhibiting the transmission of pain signals.

History

Ergotamine was first isolated from ergot in 1918 by Arthur Stoll and Albert Hofmann at the pharmaceutical company Sandoz. It was initially used to induce childbirth and to stop bleeding after delivery, but its use in obstetrics was discontinued due to severe side effects.

Medical uses

Ergotamine is primarily used to treat migraine attacks. It is often combined with other medications, such as caffeine, to increase its effectiveness. Ergotamine is not used for routine headache or tension headache.

Side effects

Common side effects of ergotamine include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. More serious side effects can include muscle pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers and toes. In rare cases, ergotamine can cause a serious condition called ergotism, which can lead to gangrene and the need for amputation.

Pharmacology

Ergotamine acts as a vasoconstrictor, narrowing blood vessels in the brain. It also inhibits the release of a neurotransmitter called substance P, which is involved in pain transmission.

See also

• Ergot
• Migraine
• Vasoconstrictor
• Substance P

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