cafergot and heart damage

[Kay]

I have taken ergotamine tartrate (cafergot suppositories) to treat migraine headaches for 8 years.  I take approximately 2 suppositories per week ( in 1/3 increments every other day).  I know I should not take it so much,but I stay well below the maximum recommended dosage of 5 suppositories per week, and it has allowed me to have a better life.  Does this cause any type of heart damage, since it is a vasoconstrictor.  I have heard of heart valve damage similar to that of phen-fen users (white deposits on valves.  I do not have symptoms, except a little shortness of breath upon heavy exertion.  What do you know about heart damage with use of ergotamine over a long period of time?

[CCF CARDIO MD - CRC]

I don't know of any heart damage that has been reported but you could double check with your pharmacist.  Also you may want to see a neurologist.  There are newer treatments for migraine that work better than cafergot.  Good luck.

[Erik Demuyt]

My experience with ergotamine (I use it in "VASOGRAIN"-tablets) is not so good. It can stop an outbreaking migraine attack immediately, but very soon I experienced headaches every morning that only go away by taking the ergotamine !

I'm not sure if this is the case for everyone, but I think that ergotamine in the long run is more a cause than a solution to headaches...

PS: I'm trying to stop using it, but it's very hard.



Erik