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What is the most important information I should know about dihydroergotamine?

Some medications may increase the risk of dangerously decreased blood flow to the brain, heart, or extremities when taken with dihydroergotamine. In rare but severe cases, gangrene or other serious problems can result. Some, but not all, of these medications are listed below in the section "What other drugs will affect dihydroergotamine?". Do not take any other medications during treatment with dihydroergotamine without first talking to your doctor.

Notify your doctor immediately if you experience an irregular heartbeat; nausea; vomiting; weakness; or coldness, numbness, or pain in the hands, feet, arms, or legs.

Do not use more of this medication than is prescribed for you. If your symptoms are not being adequately treated, contact your doctor.

What is dihydroergotamine?

Dihydroergotamine affects vasoconstriction (narrowing of arteries and veins). Dihydroergotamine also affects blood flow patterns that are associated with vascular headaches.

Dihydroergotamine is used to prevent and to treat vascular headaches such as migraine and cluster headaches.

Dihydroergotamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using dihydroergotamine?

Some medications may increase the risk of dangerously decreased blood flow to the brain, heart, or extremities when taken with dihydroergotamine. In rare but severe cases, gangrene or other serious problems can result. Some, but not all, of these medications are listed below in the section "What other drugs will affect dihydroergotamine?". Do not take any other medications during treatment with dihydroergotamine without first talking to your doctor. Do not use dihydroergotamine without first talking to your doctor if you have

• peripheral vascular disease or poor circulation;

• arteriosclerosis or "hardening of the arteries";

• high blood pressure,

• heart disease (angina, history of heart attack, silent ischemia);

• liver disease;
• kidney disease; or

• a serious infection.

You may not be able to use dihydroergotamine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Dihydroergotamine is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that it is known to be very harmful if used during pregnancy. Dihydroergotamine can induce uterine contractions, and it can restrict blood flow to the fetus. Do not use dihydroergotamine if your are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Dihydroergotamine passes into breast milk and may be harmful to a nursing infant. Dihydroergotamine may also decrease milk production. Do not use dihydroergotamine if you are breast-feeding a baby.