Cafergot
3244730
117737881
2007-03-25T12:24:58Z
DoorsAjar
3170431
Made a correction in Mechanism of Action
'''Cafergot''' is the proprietary name of a [[medication]] consisting of [[ergotamine tartrate]] or [[ergoline]] and [[caffeine]]. This combination is used for the treatment of [[vascular headache]]s, such as [[migraine]] headache.
[[Image:Ergotamine.png|thumb|The molecular structure of ergotamine]]
[[Image:Caffeine_molecule.png|thumb|The molecular structure of caffeine]]
==Use==
Correct timing of use is important. Cafergot is an abortive headache treatment, which prevents the development of the headache, rather than a treatment for an established headache. The medication should be administered at the first sign of headache.
==Mechanism of action==
The causes of migraine are not fully understood, but dilation of blood vessels in the brain may play a part in causing the headache pain. Ergotamine tartrate and caffeine both are vasoconstrictors, substances which act to constrict blood vessels.
==Adverse effects==
Because the vasoconstrictive effects of ergotamine and caffeine are not selective for the brain, adverse effects due to systemic vasoconstiction can occur. Cold feet or hands, angina pectoris or dizziness are some examples.
Ergotamine, if used frequently over a prolonged period of time, can cause dependence in the patient. If dependence occurs then cessation of ergotamine use can precipitate the same headaches which the drug was being used to treat. For this reason frequency of use must be restricted.
[[Category:Drugs]]
{{Pharma-stub}}