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New Message Board Archives >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies 2004 >> Ergoloids & Imitrex injectors
(Message started by: urrr on May 19th, 2004, 5:46am) |
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Title: Re: Ergoloids & Imitrex injectors
Post by Bob_Johnson on May 19th, 2004, 8:32am
"Ergoloid" is a unknown name for me but the name suggests it's an ergotamine preparation. If I'm guessing correctly, it should not be taken at the same time as imitrex--unless your doc has given specific directions to do so. Both operate in similar ways and the concern is an "overdose" of effect.
Giving us some history of your treatments, what doc you seeing, etc. would be helpfu. |
Title: Hydergine = Ergoloid
Post by floridian on May 19th, 2004, 10:07am
Officially, hydergine is used for cognitive decline. It has been shown to prevent migraines, and is much talked about by the nootropic ('smart-drug') crowd.
Quote: J Pharmacol. 1985;16 Suppl 3:1-17.
Hydergine: interaction with the neurotransmitter systems in the central nervous system.
[Article in English, French]
Markstein R.
Hydergine (co-dergocrine, ergoloid mesylates, dihydroergotoxine) is an ergot preparation which has been shown to be of value in the treatment of senile mental impairment. Results from biochemical in vitro investigations suggest that Hydergine interacts directly with subtypes of alpha-adrenoceptors, dopamine and serotonin receptors. For instance, in slices of rat cerebral cortex, it blocked noradrenaline-induced increase of cyclic AMP content and facilitated electrically evoked noradrenaline release which is consistent with antagonistic properties at postsynaptic alpha 1- and presynaptic alpha 2-adrenoceptors. Furthermore, Hydergine had mixed agonist/antagonist properties at postsynaptic D1 receptors mediating stimulation of adenylate cyclase, and at pre- and postsynaptic D2 receptors mediating inhibition of evoked dopamine and acetylcholine release in the rat striatum, respectively. Hydergine had also mixed agonist/antagonist properties at the serotonin-sensitive adenylate cyclase in the rat hippocampus and the presynaptic serotonin autoreceptors present on nerve terminals in the rat cortex. Based on these in vitro data, it is suggested that Hydergine influences central monoaminergic systems in a dualistic manner. On the one hand, it can compensate for a transmitter deficit in dopaminergic and serotoninergic systems, but at the same time, counteract a possible hyperactivity in the same transmitter systems. The noradrenergic systems may be affected in a similar way but by a different mechanism. In this latter system, Hydergine increased evoked noradrenaline release by blocking presynaptic alpha-adrenergic autoreceptors, but by a simultaneous blockade of postsynaptic alpha 1-adrenoceptors sets a ceiling effect to the noradrenergic stimulation. Thus, Hydergine might be able to counteract and prevent disturbances in the interplay between monoaminergic and other transmitter systems in the central nervous system. It is proposed that these multiple effects of Hydergine are in part responsible for its beneficial effects in senile mental impairment. |
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Quote:Ergoloid Mesylates (er' goe loid) (mes' i lates)
Brand name(s): Gerimal; Hydergine; Niloric Other name(s): Dihydroergotoxine; dihydrogenated ergot alkaloids
Why is this medication prescribed?
This medication, a combination of several drugs that belong to a group of drugs called ergoloid mesylates, is used to relieve the signs and symptoms of decreased mental capacity due to the aging process.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. How should this medicine be used?
This medication comes as a tablet to take by mouth or dissolve under the tongue and a liquid to take by mouth. It is usually taken three times a day. Take ergoloid mesylates with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ergoloid mesylates exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
To use the sublingual tablets, place a tablet under your tongue and allow it to dissolve. Do not chew or swallow the sublingual tablet. Do not eat or drink while the tablet is under your tongue.
The liquid comes with a specially marked dropper for measuring the dose. Ask your pharmacist to show you how to use the dropper if you have difficulty. The liquid may be mixed with water, juice, milk, or food.
Continue to take ergoloid mesylates even if you feel well. This drug must be taken regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is felt. What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking ergoloid mesylates,
* tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ergoloid mesylates, other ergot alkaloids (Cafergot, Ergostat, Bellergal), or any other drugs. * tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins. * tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a mental illness. * tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking ergoloid mesylates, call your doctor. |
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Title: Re: Ergoloids & Imitrex injectors
Post by pubgirl on May 20th, 2004, 2:42pm
Urrrr
As Bob says and to underline it! Serious word of caution here. Is your doctor aware that Imitrex is a synthesised version of one of the active parts of ergotamine? Imitrex was developed after it was realised that ergotamine was an effective treatment for vascular headaches, but was such a 'dirty drug' that it caused other health problems, particularly circulatory ones.
I would suggest you discuss the combination of these two drugs again to ensure you are not taking excessive amounts, as this could be dangerous to your heart.
Just being Mrs Cautious as usual :-[
Wendy |