Cafergot

Uses
Cafergot (Caffeine/Ergotamine) is used to provide relief from migraines. This medicine is a combination of two ingredients, which work together to treat vascular headaches (migraine and cluster headaches). Ergotamine (one of the ingredients) helps to narrow blood vessels in the brain which may have become widened, resulting in headache pain. Narrowing these blood vessels helps to treat the headache. Caffeine is also added, as it helps to increase the absorption of ergotamine.

Dosage and Administration
You must see your doctor before taking Cafergot (Caffeine/Ergotamine) tablets. After a medical examination, your doctor will determine whether or not this medicine is suitable for you. If it is deemed suitable, you will be told how much to take. Adults are usually instructed to take 1 to 2 tablets when a headache is first noticed. This will generally be enough to relieve your symptoms.

However, if your headache persists, your doctor may suggest taking 2 more tablets. Patients are generally warned not to take more than 4 tablets in any period of 24 hours, and if 4 tablets have been taken on one day, it will be necessary to wait for another 4 days before another dose can be taken. Also, patients should never take more than 8 tablets per week.

Side effects
Patients who take Cafergot (Caffeine/Ergotamine) may sometimes experience side effects, such as:

• Itchiness
• Dizzy sensation
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feelings of weakness
• Nausea or vomiting (not due to migraines)

Talk to your doctor if any side effects occur. Rare but serious side effects may occur. You will need medical attention straight away if you notice muscular pain affecting the legs or arms, weakness affecting the legs, problems related to speech or balance, decreased urination, high blood pressure or any other serious symptoms.

Precautions
This medicine should not be used to prevent a headache, and is only meant to treat a headache that has begun already. In addition to this, it should not be used to treat common tension headaches.

In rare cases, a reduction in blood flow to the limbs or has occurred in patients who have taken this medicine, which could possibly result in a stroke. Discuss the risks of treatment with your doctor before taking this medicine.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Cafergot (Caffeine/Ergotamine) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.