Applies to ergotamine: oral tablets, rectal suppositories, sublingual tablets.
Warning
- Possible serious and/or life-threatening cerebral and/or peripheral ischemia when used concomitantly with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (see Interactions); concomitant use contraindicated.138 139 140
Side effects include:
Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, numbness and tingling of the fingers and toes, muscle pain in the extremities, weakness in the legs.
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to ergotamine: compounding powder, sublingual tablet.
General
The most commonly reported adverse effects have included nausea and vomiting.[Ref]
Cardiovascular
Serious vasoconstrictive have occurred, more commonly with long-term therapy at relatively high doses, however, they have been reported with short-term or normal doses.
Nervous system
Reports of cerebral ischemia, including 1 death, have been reported for patients receiving ergotamine and protease inhibitors concomitantly. A black box warning is now required labeling for these drugs.
Cardiovascular
Frequency not reported: Ischemia, cyanosis, absence of pulse, cold extremities, precordial distress, EKG changes, gangrene, transient tachycardia, bradycardia, hypertension
Nervous system
Rare (less than 0.1%): Cerebral ischemia
Frequency not reported: Paresthesias, numbness, weakness
Gastrointestinal
Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting
Musculoskeletal
Frequency not reported: Musculoskeletal aches, pains, and cramps
Other
Frequency not reported: Vertigo
Hypersensitivity
Frequency not reported: Localized edema, itching
