IMPORTANT WARNING:     

Why is this medication prescribed?     

The combination of ergotamine and caffeine is used to prevent and treat migraine headaches. Ergotamine is in a class of medications called ergot alkaloids. It works together with caffeine by preventing blood vessels in the head from expanding and causing headaches.

How should this medicine be used?     

The combination of ergotamine and caffeine comes as a tablet to take by mouth and as a suppository to insert rectally. It is usually taken at the first sign of a migraine headache. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ergotamine and caffeine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

To use the tablets, follow these steps:

• Take two tablets at the first sign of a migraine.
• Lie down and relax in a quiet, dark room for at least 2 hours.
• If the headache pain does not stop within 30 minutes, take one or two more tablets.
• Take one or two tablets every 30 minutes until the headache pain stops or you have taken six tablets.
• If the headache pain continues after you have taken six tablets, call your doctor. Do not take more than six tablets for one headache unless your doctor specifically tells you to do so.
• Do not take more than six tablets in 24 hours or 10 tablets in 1 week. If you need more, call your doctor.

To use the suppositories, follow these steps:

• If the suppository feels soft, place it in ice cold water (before removing foil wrapper) until it hardens.
• Remove the wrapper and dip the tip of the suppository in water.
• Lie down on your left side and raise your right knee to your chest. (A left-handed person should lie on the right side and raise the left knee.)
• Using your finger, insert the suppository into the rectum, about 1/2 to 1 inch in children and 1 inch in adults. Hold it in place for a few moments.
• Wash your hands thoroughly; then lie down and relax in a dark, quiet room for at least 2 hours.
• If the headache pain does not stop within 1 hour, insert another suppository.
• If the headache pain continues after you have inserted two suppositories, call your doctor. Do not use more than two suppositories for one headache unless your doctor specifically tells you to do so.
• Do not use more than five suppositories in 1 week. If you need more, call your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine     

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?     

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from light and excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose     

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• vomiting
• numbness
• tingling sensation
• pain
• blue hands and feet
• lack of pulse
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• fainting
• drowsiness
• unconsciousness
• coma
• seizures

What other information should I know?     

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

If you take large doses of this medication for a long time, you may have a severe headache for a few days after stopping the medication. If the headache lasts for more than a few days, call your doctor.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Brand names     

Other names