The effect of single dose ergotamine tartrate on peripheral arteries in migraine patients: methodological aspects and time effect curve

Ergotamine tartrate (0.5 mg/70 kg) was given intravenously to 17 migraine patients. Arm, finger, ankle and big toe systolic blood pressures were measured with strain gauge technique for up to 4 hours and again after 22 hours. Systolic arm blood pressure increased transiently (duration less than 3 hours). Peripheral systolic blood pressures decreased in all patients (for toes a few to 55 mmHg) and at 22 hours well sustained decreases were still found. Further 10 migraine patients received 2-4 mg ergotamine tartrate as suppositories and peripheral systolic blood pressures were measured for 3 days. A decrease in peripheral systolic blood pressure was found after 24 hours but had disappeared after 48 hours. Contrary to common belief the present study investigating the effect of ergotamine directly on arteries has shown a long duration of its vasoconstrictory effect. Thus the effect of a single dose of ergotamine on the arteries should be followed for days.