|
|
|
Dihydroergotamine |
|
|
What is Dihydroergotamine and why is it prescribed? Dihydroergotamine is used for relief of migraine headache attacks, whether or not preceded by an aura. This nasally administered remedy contains the same active ingredient as D.H.E. 45, an injectable form of the drug. It constricts the blood vessels, and may defeat migraine through this action. Dihydroergotamine is for use only during a genuine attack of classic migraine. Do not attempt to prevent migraines with this drug, and do not use it for tension headaches, cluster headaches, or unusual types of migraine such as hemiplegic or basilar migraine. How should you take Dihydroergotamine? Follow your doctors directions for taking Dihydroergotamine. Dihydroergotamine comes in single-dose ampuls, each with an accompanying nasal sprayer. Do not open an ampul until needed. Once opened, the drug must be used within 8 hours to be fully effective. Take Dihydroergotamine at the first sign of a developing migraine. Assemble the ampul and sprayer according to package directions, pump the sprayer 4 times to prime it with medication, then spray once in each nostril. While spraying, do NOT tilt your head back or inhale through your nose. Wait 15 minutes, then spray once in each nostril again. After the second spray, discard the sprayer and the ampul's cap. To be prepared for the next attack, remember to load a new ampul and sprayer into the assembly case that comes with the medication. Dihydroergotamine will be effective even if you have a stuffy nose, a cold, or allergies. Dihydroergotamine is not for regular use. Use it only during a migraine attack. Store Dihydroergotamine at room temperature away from heat and light. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Are there any Dihydroergotamine side effects? Dihydroergotamine side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Dihydroergotamine side effects may include altered sense of taste, dizziness, drowsiness, nasal inflammation, nausea, sore throat, and vomiting. Less common Dihydroergotamine side effects may include diarrhea, dry mouth, fatigue, hot flushes, loss of strength, sinus inflammation, stiffness, and tingling sensation. Rare Dihydroergotamine side effects may include abdominal pain, altered sense of smell, cold clammy skin, confusion, conjunctivitis, cramps, decreased sensation, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, earache, ear ringing, excessive muscle tone, feeling cold or ill, feeling of well-being, fever, hiccups, increased urination, increased sweating, impaired concentration, indigestion, insomnia, intolerance to light, itching, lack of muscle tone, loss of voice, muscle aches, muscle weakness, nervousness, rapid or throbbing heartbeat, rash, red/purple blotches on the skin, respiratory tract infection, swelling, tearing abnormalities, tremor, vision abnormalities, and yawning. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Dihydroergotamine? If Dihydroergotamine is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Completely avoid other migraine remedies and ergotamine-based drugs, and check with your doctor before combining Dihydroergotamine with Azithromycin (Zithromax), Clarithromycin (Biaxin), Erythromycin (Ery-Tab, Eryc), Nicotine (from any source, including cigarettes, patches, or inhalers), Phenylpropanolamine (Propagest), Propranolol (Inderal), Pseudoephedrine (Afrin, Sudafed), or Troleandomycin (Tao). Are there any special warnings about Dihydroergotamine? If you have heart disease, Dihydroergotamine could trigger a serious problem. Risk factors for this disorder include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, a family history of heart disease, smoking, and passing menopause. Your doctor will probably want to observe your reaction to the first dose of Dihydroergotamine if any of these factors apply. Because Dihydroergotamine constricts blood vessels, you should use it with caution if you have circulation problems in your arms, legs, fingers, or toes. Use Dihydroergotamine cautiously if you are being treated for high blood pressure; it occasionally aggravates the problem. Alert your doctor immediately if you have any of the following side effects: pain in the arms and legs, numbness or tingling in your fingers or toes, coldness, pallor, weakness in the legs, chest pain, temporary speeding or slowing of the heart rate, swelling, itching, or a bluish color in your fingers and toes. |
|
|
Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
|
|
Copyright 2008 MyMedications.net. All rights reserved. |
|
