Indications  

Cafergot is a prescription medication used to treat or prevent vascular headaches (headache pain caused by dilated blood vessels in the head), including migraines, migraine variants, and histaminic cephalalgia. 

Cafergot is classified as an ergot alkaloid drug that contains two active ingredients: ergotamine and caffeine. Ergotamine works by narrowing dilated blood vessels. However, caffeine enhances the absorption of ergotamine and helps constrict widened blood vessels. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Cafergot and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. For any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

Cafergot dosage is individualized based on the medical condition and response to the treatment.  

For optimal efficacy, take Cafergot at the first sign of a headache; delayed administration may reduce effectiveness. Start with 2 tablets at the onset of an attack, followed by 1 tablet every half hour as needed for complete relief. Do not exceed 6 tablets per headache attack or 10 tablets within 7 days. 

Adhere strictly to Cafergot dosage instructions; refrain from exceeding the recommended amount or frequency of use. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Cafergot. If any of them last or worsen, tell your doctor promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Upset stomach 
• Restlessness 
• Trouble sleeping 
• Dizziness 

Serious Side Effects 

• Signs of high blood pressure: 
  • Very bad headache or dizziness 
  • Passing out 
  • Change in eyesight 
• Chest pain or pressure 
• Slow heartbeat 
• Swelling 
• Dizziness or passing out 
• Muscle pain or weakness 
• Change in color of hands or feet from pale to blue or red 
• Numbness, pain, tingling, or cold feeling of the hands or feet 
• Any sores or wounds on the fingers or toes 
• Signs of heart valve problems (rare): 
  • Fast or abnormal heartbeat 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Swelling in the arms or legs 
  • Significant weight gain 

Call your doctor and ask for medical help if you experience any of the above-mentioned severe symptoms. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Cafergot may cause a severe allergic reaction. Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following symptoms of a severe allergic reaction: 

• Rash 
• Hives 
• Itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever 
• Wheezing 
• Tightness in the chest or throat 
• Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Cafergot. Tell your doctor promptly if you experience any other effects not listed above. 

Cautions 

Before taking Cafergot, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to: 

• Ergotamine 
• Caffeine 
• Other ergot alkaloids such as dihydroergotamine 
• Other medicines 
• Any ingredients present in Cafergot tablets 

To ensure Cafergot is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Blood circulation problems (e.g., in your legs, arms/hands, or stomach) 
• Certain types of headaches: hemiplegic or basilar migraine 
• Heart problems: chest pain, irregular heartbeat, previous heart attack 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Personal or family history of substance use disorder: overuse or addiction to drugs/alcohol 
• Stroke or “mini-stroke” (transient ischemic attack-TIA) 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products, to minimize the possibility of drug interactions that could impact Cafergot’s efficacy or raise the likelihood of adverse effects. 

Separate your dose of Cafergot if you are also taking “triptan” migraine drugs (such as sumatriptan or rizatriptan). Consult your doctor to determine the appropriate time interval between your doses of these medications. 

Be cautious of caffeine-containing products as they may increase heart rate or blood pressure. Inform your pharmacist if you are also taking cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or other headache products, and ask for instructions on safe use. 

The use of Cafergot can affect the accuracy of certain medical tests, such as dipyridamole-thallium imaging tests and urine catecholamine 5-HIAA levels, leading to incorrect results. Inform your doctors and all laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication. 

Cafergot is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harm to the developing fetus. Patients should consult their doctor about reliable contraception methods, such as condoms or birth control pills, and inform them immediately if they become or suspect they are pregnant. 

Ergotamine can transfer into breast milk and may cause adverse effects on a nursing infant. Seek medical advice before breastfeeding while taking this medication.