Ergotamine compounds are used to treat moderate migraine pain after analgesics and nonsteroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have proved ineffective. The drug ergotamine is an ergot compound that is available in oral, inhalant, under-the-tongue (sublingual) and suppository form. Oral forms of the drug should be used for symptoms with slow onset, whereas suppository forms are favored for rapid-onset migraines. It should be noted that its overuse may provoke the development of chronic daily headaches.
Migraine Headache Prevention
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Dr. Michael Breus, PhD , Psychology, answeredMaking sure you get enough sleep if you’re prone to headaches or migraines won’t always stave off pain, though. What’s more important is keeping the same sleep schedule. Ever gotten a headache or migraine on a day you slept in? Well, yes: you can get too much sleep! If your body is used to rising at 6 am during the workweek and you suddenly switch to 9 am on the weekend, guess what: you’ve just given your nervous system a reason to summon pain. The body likes routines. And it especially likes consistent sleep routines.
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See All 2 AnswersWhile on vacation, it's easy to get dehydrated, which can bring on a migraine. For this reason, it's important to drink plenty of fluids. If you have a history of migraines, you can talk to your doctor about possible preventative medications or medications that can stop a migraine if it starts. -
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Dr. Audrey L. Halpern, MD , Neurology, answeredAt parties and holiday meals, the food and drink is in abundance, and you look forward to it every year. Different foods and drinks may trigger headaches in different people, and it may take time for you to figure out if you have food and drink triggers, and what they are. The amount of food you eat may also play a role. And what about those smells? People coming to the party are dressed to impress, but too often are scented to the max. Scented candles and other holiday decorations and smoke may also be present, lingering in the air, awaiting your arrival.
With planning, you can reduce the likelihood of triggering a migraine. Firstly, don’t skip meals earlier in the day in anticipation of a large holiday meal. Skipping meals may in and of itself trigger a migraine. Avoid your food and drink triggers entirely, if possible. If you don’t know what they are, try to stay away from cured meats and aged cheeses (skip the pepperoni and cheese plate), hot dogs (pigs in blankets), pizza, highly spiced foods, deli meats, and monosodium glutamate (MSG). Opt for white wine or light-colored liquor over red wine and darker liquors. Or no liquor at all. Try to stick to the most natural and unprepared foods, veggies, fruit, simple grilled meats, and breads. Eat chocolate and other sugary things in moderation.
As for the smells, if you’re close enough to the hostess, you can contact her ahead and talk with her about your problem; maybe she can limit the scented candles. Let your friends know ahead of time that perfumes and colognes may set off your migraines, and ask if they can refrain for this event. -
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Dr. Ellen S. Rome, MD , Pediatrics, answered
The onset of migraines is often affected by menstruation and certain foods. In this video, Dr. Rome and Dr. Roizen reveal the many triggers that could be causing your teen's migraines.
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See All 2 AnswersThis is not really answerable as different medications are effective in different people. The most commonly used ones are amitriptyline, propranolol, topiramate, and divalproex. Others are occasionally effective, but that list is very long.
The most important consideration is that the medications are tolerated and taken for long enough at a sufficient dose before determining whether it is effective.