Questions and Answers
What is the brand name of Ergotamine tartrate?
What is the drug classification of Ergotamine tartrate?
Ergot Alkaloids
What is the mechanism of action of Ergotamine?
Vasoconstriction of dilated blood vessels by stimulating alpha adrenergic and serotonergic (5-HT) receptors
Concurrent use with beta blockers may increase the risk of __________.
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Which of the following are side effects of Ergotamine tartrate? (Select all that apply)
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CYP34 inhibitors can elevate the serum level of ergotamine.
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What are the therapeutic effects of Ergotamine?
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Ergotamine is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme __________.
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Which of the following should be avoided due to potential interactions with Ergotamine? (Select all that apply)
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Ergotamine should be taken at the onset of the __________.
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What are the nursing implications for administering Ergotamine?
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Study Notes
Brand Name
- Ergotamine tartrate is marketed under the brand name Ergomar.
Drug Classification
- Classified as an Ergot Alkaloid.
Mechanism of Action
- Acts by vasoconstricting dilated blood vessels through stimulation of alpha adrenergic and serotonergic (5-HT) receptors.
- Higher doses may lead to alpha adrenergic blockade and resultant vasodilation.
Common Drug Interactions
- Using with beta blockers, hormonal contraceptives, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), or nicotine can heighten peripheral vasoconstriction risk.
- Dihydroergotamine can negate the anti-anginal effects of nitrates.
- Concurrent use of other vasoconstrictors should be avoided to prevent additive effects.
- Combining with triptans (almotriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, zolmitriptan) can cause prolonged vasoconstriction; a 24-hour interval is recommended between uses.
Side Effects/Adverse Effects
- CNS: Dizziness
- CV: Risk of myocardial infarction, hypertension, angina pectoris, arterial spasm, intermittent claudication
- GI: Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and extreme thirst (polydipsia).
- MS: Stiffness, muscle pain, stiff neck, and shoulders.
- Neuro: Weakness, numbness, or tingling in extremities.
- Misc: General fatigue.
Black Box Warning
- Inhibition of CYP34 can raise serum levels of ergotamine, increasing the risk of cerebral and/or peripheral ischemia. Avoid concurrent use of contraindicated drugs.
Therapeutic Effects
- Constriction of the dilated carotid artery bed provides resolution of vascular headache.
- Significant decrease in headache pain.
Nursing Implications - Preventing Interactions
- Ergot derivatives may enhance hypertensive effects of alpha-1 agonists.
- Metabolized by CYP3A4 in the liver; it’s crucial to avoid all CYP3A4 inhibitors.
Nursing Implications - Herb and Dietary Considerations
- Potential interactions with:
- Cola
- Coffee
- Tea
- Grapefruit juice
Nursing Implications - Administering the Medication
- Should be taken sublingually and not crushed, chewed, or swallowed whole.
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while the medication is dissolving.
Nursing Implications - Patient Teaching
- Instruct patients to take ergotamine at the onset of migraine headaches.
- Advise notifying prescriber if migraines become more frequent or are not relieved.
- Rest in a dark room for 2-3 hours post-administration.
- Report any muscle pain, weakness, heart rate changes, nausea, or vomiting to the healthcare provider.
- Emphasize that tablets should never be crushed, swallowed, or chewed.
- Caution not to increase dosage unless directed by a prescriber.
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Description
This quiz is a set of flashcards focused on Ergotamine Tartrate, a medication used primarily for migraine treatment. Through these cards, you'll learn about its brand name, classification, mechanism of action, and common drug interactions. Ideal for pharmacy students and healthcare professionals.
