Cafergot is a fixed-dose combination of caffeine and ergotamine, two active ingredients paired in a single oral preparation for the management of migraine and certain related headache presentations. Combination products of this kind formalise a long-standing co-prescribing pattern, where two ingredients with complementary roles are placed into one tablet rather than dispensed separately.
Ergotamine belongs to the antimigraine category, acting on the vascular component that characterises migraine attacks, while caffeine is included alongside it as an adjunct ingredient. The pairing has been part of the migraine pharmacological landscape for decades, and the indication list registered with national regulators — visible in the structured block below this introduction — covers headache, migraine, and in some markets hypotension.
Cafergot carries marketing authorisation in 15 countries, spread across a wide geographic range rather than concentrated in one region. Representative markets include Italy, Singapore, Argentina, New Zealand, and Egypt, with further registrations across parts of Europe, the Middle East, and South-East Asia. Travellers and expatriates familiar with Cafergot from one of these markets may or may not find the same brand at their destination, since several large pharmaceutical markets have shifted toward newer migraine-specific molecules over the years.
Combination migraine products vary considerably between countries — both in availability and in regulatory status — even more so than single-ingredient drugs. Other antimigraine medications also exist internationally under different molecules and brand names, and a local pharmacist is well placed to identify what is on the regional formulary. Anyone considering, continuing, or substituting a migraine product across borders should treat that decision as one to take with a qualified healthcare provider rather than at a pharmacy counter alone.
The toxic effects of an acute overdosage of CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) are due primarily to the ergotamine component. The amount of caffeine is such that its toxic effects will be overshadowed by those of ergotamine. Symptoms include vomiting, numbness, tingling, pain and cyanosis of the extremities associated with diminished or absent peripheral pulses; hypertension or hypotension; drowsiness, stupor, coma, convulsions and shock. A case has been reported of reversible bilateral papillitis with ring scotomata in a patient who received five times the recommended daily adult dose over a period of 14 days.
Treatment consists of removal of the offending drug by induction of emesis, gastric lavage, and catharsis. Maintenance of adequate pulmonary ventilation, correction of hypotension and control of convulsions and blood pressure are important considerations. Treatment of peripheral vasospasm should consist of warmth, but not heat, and protection of the ischemic limbs. Vasodilators may be beneficial but caution must be exercised to avoid aggravating an already existent hypotension.
Coadministration of ergotamine with potent CYP 3A4 inhibitors (ritonavir, nelfinavir, indinavir, erthromycin, clarithromycin, and troleandomycin) has been associated with acute ergot toxicity (ergotism) characterized by vasospasm and ischemia of the extremities (see PRECAUTIONS: DRUG INTERACTIONS), with some cases resulting in amputation. There have been rare reports of cerebral ischemia in patients on protease inhibitor therapy when CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) was coadministered, at least one resulting in death. Because of the increased risk for ergotism and other serious vasospastic adverse events, ergotamine use is contraindicated with these drugs and other potent inhibitors of CYP 3A4 (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) (see WARNINGS: CYP 3A4 Inhibitors).
CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women. CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this product, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.
Peripheral vascular disease, coronary heart disease, hypertension, impaired hepatic or renal function and sepsis.
Hypersensitivity to any of the components.
Cardiovascular: Vasoconstrictive complications of a serious nature may occur at times. These include ischemia, cyanosis, absence of pulse, cold extremities, gangrene, precordial distress and pain, EKG changes and muscle pains. Although these effects occur most commonly with long-term therapy at relatively high doses, they have also been reported with short-term or normal doses. Other cardiovascular adverse effects include transient tachycardia or bradycardia and hypertension.
Gastrointestinal: Nausea and vomiting.
Neurological: paresthesias, numbness, weakness, and vertigo.
Allergic: Localized edema and itching.
Fibrotic Complications(see WARNINGS).
Drug Abuse And Dependence: There have been reports of drug abuse and psychological dependence in patients on CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) therapy. Due to the chronicity of vascular headaches, it is imperative that patients be advised not to exceed recommended dosages with long-term use to avoid ergotism (see PRECAUTIONS).
CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) are indicated as therapy to abort or prevent vascular headache, e.g., migraine, migraine variants, or so-called "histaminic cephalalgia."
Pregnancy Category X: There are no studies on the placental transfer or teratogenicity of the combined products of CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP). Caffeine is known to cross the placenta and has been shown to be teratogenic in animals. Ergotamine crosses the placenta in small amounts, although it does not appear to be embryotoxic in this quantity. However, prolonged vasoconstriction of the uterine vessels and/or increased myometrial tone leading to reduced myometrial and placental blood flow may have contributed to fetal growth retardation observed in animals (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
Nonteratogenic Effects: CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the oxytocic effects of ergotamine (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
Labor and Delivery: CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) is contraindicated in labor and delivery due to its oxytocic effect which is maximal in the third trimester (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
Nursing Mothers: Ergot drugs are known to inhibit prolactin but there are no reports of decreased lactation with CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP). Ergotamine is excreted in breast milk and may cause symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, weak pulse and unstable blood pressure in nursing infants. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP), a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Overdosage & Contraindications OVERDOSEThe toxic effects of an acute overdosage of CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) are due primarily to the ergotamine component. The amount of caffeine is such that its toxic effects will be overshadowed by those of ergotamine. Symptoms include vomiting, numbness, tingling, pain and cyanosis of the extremities associated with diminished or absent peripheral pulses; hypertension or hypotension; drowsiness, stupor, coma, convulsions and shock. A case has been reported of reversible bilateral papillitis with ring scotomata in a patient who received five times the recommended daily adult dose over a period of 14 days.
Treatment consists of removal of the offending drug by induction of emesis, gastric lavage, and catharsis. Maintenance of adequate pulmonary ventilation, correction of hypotension and control of convulsions and blood pressure are important considerations. Treatment of peripheral vasospasm should consist of warmth, but not heat, and protection of the ischemic limbs. Vasodilators may be beneficial but caution must be exercised to avoid aggravating an already existent hypotension.
CONTRAINDICATIONSCoadministration of ergotamine with potent CYP 3A4 inhibitors (ritonavir, nelfinavir, indinavir, erthromycin, clarithromycin, and troleandomycin) has been associated with acute ergot toxicity (ergotism) characterized by vasospasm and ischemia of the extremities (see PRECAUTIONS: DRUG INTERACTIONS), with some cases resulting in amputation. There have been rare reports of cerebral ischemia in patients on protease inhibitor therapy when CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) was coadministered, at least one resulting in death. Because of the increased risk for ergotism and other serious vasospastic adverse events, ergotamine use is contraindicated with these drugs and other potent inhibitors of CYP 3A4 (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) (see WARNINGS: CYP 3A4 Inhibitors).
CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women. CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this product, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.
Peripheral vascular disease, coronary heart disease, hypertension, impaired hepatic or renal function and sepsis.
Hypersensitivity to any of the components.
Clinical Pharmacology CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGYErgotamine is an alpha adrenergic blocking agent with a direct stimulating effect on the smooth muscle of peripheral and cranial blood vessels and produces depression of central vasomotor centers. The compound also has the properties of serotonin antagonism. In comparison to hydrogenated ergotamine, the adrenergic blocking actions are less pronounced and vasoconstrictive actions are greater.
Caffeine, also a cranial vasoconstrictor, is added to further enhance the vasoconstrictive effect without the necessity of increasing ergotamine dosage.
Many migraine patients experience excessive nausea and vomiting during attacks, making it impossible for them to retain any oral medication. In such cases, therefore, the only practical means of medication is through the rectal route where medication may reach the cranial vessels directly, evading the splanchnic vasculature and the liver.
CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) for oral administration are available as:
1 mg/100 mg: round tablets, sugar coated beige and imprinted CAFERGOT (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) in black ink.
Bottles of 100...................................................NDC 0078-0349-05
Store at controlled room temperature 15° -30° C (59° -86° F).
Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container.
Manufactured By: Geneva Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Broomfield, CO 80020. Distributed By: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, New Jersey 07936. Rev 03-2003. FDA Rev date: 7/26/1999
CYP 3A4 Inhibitors (e.g. Macrolide Antibiotics and Protease Inhibitors): Coadministration of ergotamine with potent CYP 3A4 inhibitors such as protease inhibitors or macrolide antibiotics has been associated with serious adverse events; for this reason, these drugs should not be given concomitantly with ergotamine (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). While these reactions have not been reported with less potent CYP 3A4 inhibitors, there is a potential risk for serious toxicity including vasospasm when these drugs are used with ergotamine. Examples of less potent CYP 3A4 inhibitors include: saquinavir, nefazodone, fluconazole, fluoxetine, grapefruit juice, fluvoxamine, zileuton, metronidazole, and clotrimazole. These lists are not exhaustive, and the prescriber should consider the effects on CYP 3A4 of other agents being considered for concomitant use with ergotamine.
Fibrotic Complications: There have been a few reports of patients on ergotamine tartrate and caffeine therapy developing retroperitoneal and/or pleuropulmonary fibrosis. There have also been rare reports of fibrotic thickening of the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and/or pulmonary valves with long-term continuous use of ergotamine tartrate and caffeine. Ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets should not be used for chronic daily administration (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
PRECAUTIONSGeneral: Although signs and symptoms of ergotism rarely develop even after long-term intermittent use of the orally administered drug, care should be exercised to remain within the limits of recommended dosage.
Ergotism is manifested by intense arterial vasoconstriction, producing signs and symptoms of peripheral vascular ischemia. Ergotamine induces vasoconstriction by a direct action on vascular smooth muscle. In chronic intoxication with ergot derivatives, headache, intermittent claudication, muscle pains, numbness, coldness and pallor of the digits may occur. If the condition is allowed to progress untreated, gangrene can result.
While most cases of ergotism associated with ergotamine treatment result from frank overdosage, some cases have involved apparent hypersensitivity. There are few reports of ergotism among patients taking doses within the recommended limits or for brief periods of time. In rare instances, patients, particularly those who have used the medication indiscriminately over long periods of time, may display withdrawal symptoms consisting of rebound headache upon discontinuation of the drug.
Pregnancy Teratogenic EffectsPregnancy Category X: There are no studies on the placental transfer or teratogenicity of the combined products of CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP). Caffeine is known to cross the placenta and has been shown to be teratogenic in animals. Ergotamine crosses the placenta in small amounts, although it does not appear to be embryotoxic in this quantity. However, prolonged vasoconstriction of the uterine vessels and/or increased myometrial tone leading to reduced myometrial and placental blood flow may have contributed to fetal growth retardation observed in animals (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
Nonteratogenic Effects: CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the oxytocic effects of ergotamine (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
Labor and Delivery: CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) is contraindicated in labor and delivery due to its oxytocic effect which is maximal in the third trimester (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).
Nursing Mothers: Ergot drugs are known to inhibit prolactin but there are no reports of decreased lactation with CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP). Ergotamine is excreted in breast milk and may cause symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, weak pulse and unstable blood pressure in nursing infants. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP), a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Procedure: For the best results, dosage should start at the first sign of an attack. Adults: Take 2 tablets at the start of attack; 1 additional tablet every 1/2 hour, if needed for full relief (maximum 6 tablets per attack, 10 per week).
Maximum Adult Dosage: Total dose for any one attack should not exceed 6 tablets. Total weekly dosage should not exceed 10 tablets. Ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets should not be used for chronic daily administration. In carefully selected patients, with due consideration of maximum dosage recommendations, administration of the drug at bedtime may be an appropriate short-term preventive measure.
Cardiovascular: Vasoconstrictive complications of a serious nature may occur at times. These include ischemia, cyanosis, absence of pulse, cold extremities, gangrene, precordial distress and pain, EKG changes and muscle pains. Although these effects occur most commonly with long-term therapy at relatively high doses, they have also been reported with short-term or normal doses. Other cardiovascular adverse effects include transient tachycardia or bradycardia and hypertension.
Gastrointestinal: Nausea and vomiting.
Neurological: paresthesias, numbness, weakness, and vertigo.
Allergic: Localized edema and itching.
Fibrotic Complications(see WARNINGS).
Drug Abuse And Dependence: There have been reports of drug abuse and psychological dependence in patients on CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine) (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) therapy. Due to the chronicity of vascular headaches, it is imperative that patients be advised not to exceed recommended dosages with long-term use to avoid ergotism (see PRECAUTIONS).
DRUG INTERACTIONSCYP 3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Macrolide Antibiotics and Protease Inhibitors): See CONTRAINDICATIONS and WARNINGS.
CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) should not be administered with other vasoconstrictors. Use with sympathomimetics (pressor agents) may cause extreme elevation of blood pressure. The beta-blocker Inderal (propranolol) has been reported to potentiate the vasoconstrictive action of CAFERGOT® (ergotamine tartrate and caffeine tablets, USP) by blocking the vasodilating property of epinephrine. Nicotine may provoke vasoconstriction in some patients, predisposing to a greater ischemic response to ergot therapy.
The blood levels of ergotamine-containing drugs are reported to be elevated by the concomitant administration of macrolide antibiotics and vasospastic reactions have been reported with therapeutic doses of the ergotamine-containing drugs when coadministered with these antibiotics.
Cafergot is prescribed in the management of migraine, headache, and in some markets hypotension. The combination pairs an antimigraine ingredient with caffeine as an adjunct, an established formulation in the migraine pharmacological landscape. The full registered indication list in each market where Cafergot is sold is shown in the structured section directly below this introduction, as recognised by the relevant national regulators.
Cafergot contains two active ingredients: ergotamine, classified within the antimigraine category, and caffeine, which is paired alongside it. Ergotamine is one of the older molecules in migraine pharmacotherapy and circulates internationally under several brand names, sometimes as a single ingredient and sometimes — as in Cafergot — within a fixed-dose combination tablet.
Cafergot is registered in 15 countries spread across several regions, including Italy, Singapore, Argentina, Egypt, Russia, New Zealand, and South Korea. The geographic footprint is wide rather than clustered in one area. If your country is not represented in the list, a local pharmacist can confirm whether an ergotamine-containing or other antimigraine product is available locally under a different name.
Ergotamine is sold under various brand names worldwide, both as a single ingredient and within combination products that pair it with caffeine. The broader antimigraine class also includes other molecules used in different clinical situations, although they are not freely interchangeable with ergotamine-based products. To identify a local equivalent, search the active ingredient on Pill2Trip or ask a pharmacist in your country.
Yes. Cafergot is a prescription medication in the markets where it is registered, and migraine therapy in particular is calibrated to the individual patient's pattern of attacks, history, and concurrent medications. Combination antimigraine products also vary across countries in availability and regulatory status. Travellers and people relocating between countries should involve a healthcare provider in any decision to start, continue, switch, or substitute this medication.
