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        New Message Board Archives >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies 2003 >> Amerge and Heart attack
        
(Message started by: aerobatika on Feb 11^th, 2003, 5:24am)

Title: Amerge and Heart attack
Post by aerobatika on Feb 11^th, 2003, 5:24am

This is my first post - so be patient. I wanted to let folks know my recent experience with Amerge. It appears I had a heart attack caused by this drug. I had the 2.5Mg tablets prescribed to me by my Neurologist for my acute cluster headaches. I had taken them 4 of 5 days, awoke in the middle of the nite sweating with a level 7 headache, took an Amerge, 30 minutes later my left arm was numb and I had shortness of breath. Didn't know what was happening but had enough sense to call 911. They came and the ECG showed possible Heart attack. I ended up in the hospital for 4 days due to a Myocardial Infarction.
Now the doctors are concerned because this is unusual for an active 41 yr old male, with NO history or family history of heart problems, borderline cholesterol, non smoker, non drinker, I don't even drink coffee. The heart catherization reveiled NO heart disease or arterial abnormalities.
The doctors believe the Amerge cause vasospasm of my right artery.
I would like to know if anyone has had similar issues with Amerge or drugs in the same family.
And I would like to warn folks of some possible serious side effects.
Very scary for my family and me.

Thanks
Craig

Title: Re: Amerge and Heart attack
Post by Karla on Feb 11^th, 2003, 8:08am

I am not aware of anyone going through this as a result of amerge or another triptan but they say in the leaflet with the medicine not to use it if you have a history of heart disease and I also think they state it could cause heart problems and to be alert for signs using it. At least that is the impression it left me with. I am so sorry this happened to you. I will pray you have a speedy recovery.

Title: Re: Amerge and Heart attack
Post by marvinj on Feb 15^th, 2003, 2:31pm

I am so glad you wrote this. My friend marvin has been taking Amerge 2.5 twice a day for six weeks (his cluster cycle). I am and have been concerned for sometime as to the effects this will have on him. The amerge leaflet does warn of effects if you have heart conditions, but marvin is 37 years old and very healthy. He seems much more tired and sleepy after a bout. Did this happen to you. I will be calling the doctor soon about my concerns. Would love to hear from anyone.

Title: Re: Amerge and Heart attack
Post by Ann on Feb 15^th, 2003, 7:26pm

I'm so sorry you had such an awful experience with amerge! I've been taking it for 3 years, I usually take 1/2 a 2.5 mg pill every night for several months a year. When at the peak of my cycle I take a full one. I have never had that happen to me and I have a family history of heart disease. (my dad had a triple bypass a few years back) I also suffer from prolapsus of the mitral valve as well as a heart murmur. My neurologist is aware of these problems and my cardiologist is aware of the meds I take for my clusters. They both seem ok with my taking it.
I hope you find something else that will help you deal with your clusters and I wish you a speedy recovery!
hugs
Ann