How does it work?

Methysergide belongs to a group of medicines called the ergot alkaloids. It is used in the prevention of migranes. Although the cause of migraine attacks is not fully understood, it is thought that the widening of blood vessels in the brain causes the pain associated with migraine attacks. It is also believed that a chemical called serotonin is released in the brain at the beginning of an attack. Serotonin triggers the release of other chemicals which cause blood vessels in the brain to widen. Serotonin itself causes blood vessels in the brain to narrow. Methysergide blocks serotonin (or 5HT) receptors in the brain. Blocking these receptors stops blood vessels in the brain from dilating and contracting. By stopping these changes methysergide prevents migraines from occuring. Methysergide has severe side effects and is only used if other treatment options have failed, or the headaches are so severe or regular that this level of treatment is warranted.

What is it used for?

Diarrhoea caused by the release of serotonin from carcinoid tumors of the gastrointestinal tract (carcinoid disease)

Prevention of cluster headaches

Prevention of migraines

Warning!

Regular clinical supervision and periodic withdrawl of treatment is essential so that adverse effects are recognised and minimised. This medicine should not be taken for longer than 6 months without a drug free interval.

Avoid abrupt withdrawl as it may cause rebound headaches.

Not recommended for the treatment of migranes.

Use with caution in

Peptic ulcer

Not to be used in

A general weight loss and wasting occurring in the course of a chronic disease or emotional disturbance (cacehetic conditions)

Breastfeeding

Children

Coronary heart disease

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function

Diseases affecting connective tissue, eg scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis (collagen vascular diseases)

Diseases of the urinary tract

Infection of the blood or tissues (septicaemia)

Inflammation of connective tissue, commonly the skin (cellulitis)

Inflammation of the vein's wall (phlebitis)

Lung disease

Narrowing of blood vessels in the extremities

Pregnancy

Thickening of arterial walls

Valvular heart disease

Very high blood pressure

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Take this medication with or after food.

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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