Cafergot
(ergotamine / caffeine)
Treats migraine headaches.
Our bottom line
Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) can treat migraines, but you're more likely to have side effects.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (ergotamine / caffeine)
Upsides
- Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) works better than other medicines if your migraines usually last more than 2 days or if you have more frequent migraines.
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What to expect from Cafergot, on one page
Download Fact SheetDownsides
- Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) can't stop migraines from happening. They can only treat them.
- Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) can only be used for migraines. It doesn't work for other types of headaches.
- Smoking or using products that contain nicotine can make Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) less effective.
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What to expect from Cafergot, on one page
Download Fact SheetCafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) is a combination of ergotamine and caffeine. It tightens the blood vessels in your brain to relieve the pain of your headaches.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (ergotamine / caffeine)
Used for
- Migraine
- Vascular headache
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Suppository
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.- Medicine ShoppeGet free coupon$717.09
- Kroger PharmacyGet free coupon$717.24
What to expect when you take Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) for Migraine
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Full effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Changes in heart rate
- Muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tingling and prickling sensation
- Addiction and tolerance
Side effect rates for Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine)
Risks and Warnings for Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › Overdosing Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine)
- › Taking triptans (Imitrex, Axert, Maxalt, Amerge, Frova) for migraines
Don't take more Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) than what your doctor tells you, and don't take Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) if you're also taking triptans for your migraines. Doing either can damage your heart, legs and arms. Talk to your doctor or go to the emergency room right away if you notice changes in your heart beat, muscle pain, numbness, coldness or paleness in your hands and feet.
Common concerns from people taking Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?Research studies with real people or animals found harmful effects on unborn babies. If you’re pregnant, the risks to your unborn baby outweigh the benefits.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.