Dihydroergotamine

Dihydroergotamine is a medication that is prescribed for migraine headaches. It works by tightening the blood vessels in the brain so that the brain stops releasing substances that cause headaches. This medication can be taken by injection or by nasal spray.

Warnings/Side Effects

This medication can cause heart damage, heart attacks and strokes if used too often. The medication should only be used to relieve pain from an already existing migraine headache. It should not be used to try to prevent the onset of migraines or to treat symptoms of other types of headaches.

Patients who inject the medication are at risk of infection if they re-use needles. They should dispose safely of syringes after using them and should use a sanitized, new syringe for each new dose of the medication they give themselves.