ergotamine tartrate and heart valve damage

Posted By Kay  on November 26, 1998 at 20:08:12:







I have been taking cafergot suppositories for migraines since 1993.  I cut the suppository into fourths, and take one-fourth approximately every other day; sometimes every day.  I do not take anywhere near the maximum recommended dosageof 5 per week.  I am wondering if I risk heart valve damage similar to that of Redux?  I read that the heart valves of affected Redux patients looked similar to those with ergotamine-induced valve damage.  I sometimes suffer from tightness in the throat and shortness of breath.  I had a negative treadmill test and normal EKG 7 months ago.  I know I need to taper off; my daily headaches are probably rebound headaches.  Can cafergot cause throat tightness? What is the likelihood that Cafergot is causing heart valve damage?  What symptoms should I look for?  How do I taper off my usage safely?  Thank you very much.