The Full Wiki

Ergotamine: Wikis




From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Systematic (IUPAC) name
CAS number 113-15-5
ATC code N02CA02
PubChem 8223
ChemSpider 7930
Chemical data
Formula C 33H35N5O5  
Mol. mass 581.66 g/mol
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability  ?
Metabolism hepatic
Half life  ?
Excretion renal
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat. X(US)
Routes Oral
 Yes check.svgY(what is this?)  (verify)

Ergotamine is an ergopeptine and part of the ergot family of alkaloids; it is structurally and biochemically closely related to ergoline. It possesses structural similarity to several neurotransmitters, and has biological activity as a vasoconstrictor. It is used medicinally for treatment of acute migraine attacks (sometimes in combination with caffeine), and to induce childbirth and prevent post-partum haemorrhage. It was first isolated from the ergot fungus by Arthur Stoll at Sandoz in 1918 and marketed as Gynergen in 1921. [1]


Mechanism of action

The mechanism of action of ergotamine is complex.[2] The molecule shares structural similarity with neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and epinephrine and can thus bind to several receptors acting as an agonist. The anti-migraine effect is due to constriction of the intracranial extracerebral blood vessels through the 5-HT1B receptor, and by inhibiting trigeminal neurotransmission by 5-HT1D receptors. Ergotamine also has effects on the dopamine and norepinephrine receptors. It is its action on the D2 dopamine and 5-HT1A receptors that can cause some side effects. [3]



Drug uses


Ergotamine continues to be prescribed for migraines.


See also


  2. ^ Walkembach J, Brüss M, Urban BW, Barann M (October 2005). "Interactions of metoclopramide and ergotamine with human 5-HT(3A) receptors and human 5-HT reuptake carriers". Br. J. Pharmacol. 146 (4): 543–52. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706351. PMID 16041395.  
  4. ^ Schardl CL, Panaccione DG, Tudzynski P (2006). "Ergot alkaloids--biology and molecular biology". Alkaloids Chem. Biol. 63: 45–86. doi:10.1016/S1099-4831(06)63002-2. PMID 17133714.  

Got something to say? Make a comment.
Your name
Your email address