How should I take caffeine and ergotamine?
Take caffeine and ergotamine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand
these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take caffeine and ergotamine at the first sign of an attack.
For the oral tablets, two tablets should be taken at the first sign of a vascular headache;
followed by one additional tablet every half hour if needed, up to six tablets per attack.
Use the rectal suppositories as directed by your doctor. One suppository should be
administered at the first sign of a vascular headache; followed by one additional suppository after one
hour if needed, up to two suppositories per attack.
Do not use more than six tablets or two suppositories per headache. Do not use more than ten
tablets or five suppositories in seven days. If your symptoms are not being adequately treated, talk to
your doctor.
Store caffeine and ergotamine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since caffeine and ergotamine is taken on an as-needed basis, missing a dose is not usually a
problem.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of a caffeine and ergotamine overdose include nausea, vomiting, numbness in the
fingers or toes, confusion, drowsiness, convulsions, and possibly death.
What should I avoid while taking caffeine and ergotamine?
Do not take more than six tablets per headache. Do not take more than ten tablets in 7 days. If
your symptoms are not being adequately treated, talk to your doctor.
What are the possible side effects of caffeine and ergotamine?
Stop taking caffeine and ergotamine and seek emergency medical attention or contact your
doctor immediately if you experience.
-
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat;
swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
-
chest pain;
-
numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes;
-
muscle pain in the arms or legs;
-
leg weakness;
-
changes in heart rate;
-
swelling; or
-
itching.
Other, less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to take caffeine
and ergotamine and talk to your doctor if you experience nausea or vomiting.
Caffeine and ergotamine may be habit forming when used for long periods of time. Larger
doses may be needed for
headache relief, and withdrawal effects may occur when caffeine and
ergotamine therapy is stopped.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side
effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
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