Medication information

Dihydroergotamine 1mg/mL injectable

This medication is typically used to relieve migraines. Its effects can be felt within a few minutes.

Instructions

This product must be injected under the skin (subcutaneously). Do not shake the container before use. To use:

  • if in an ampoule, break off the tip; if in a vial, clean the top with alcohol;
  • measure the prescribed dose carefully with a syringe;
  • clean the skin at the injection site with an alcohol swab;
  • pinch the skin and inject the medication into the fold

Wait at least one week before injecting the same site again.

For greater effectiveness and faster relief, use this product at the first sign of a migraine.

Generally, this medication is used only as needed.

Side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

  • it may cause numbness;
  • it may cause drowsiness or dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and use caution if driving;
  • it may cause nausea and vomiting.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Do not allow it to freeze. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

Additional Information

Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method.

Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant, contact your family doctor.

Blood donation is usually refused during this treatment.

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

Rarely, this product causes potentially severe reactions, mostly if taken at high doses or with some other drugs. If you experience agitation, confusion, diarrhea, fever, tremor and muscular rigidity or contractions, you should contact your doctor.

General notes

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

  • Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
  • If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
  • If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
  • The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.


It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.