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Dihydroergotamine Injection (DIHYDROERGOTAMINE - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • headaches
  • migraine headache

Brand Name(s): DHE-45

Generic Name: Dihydroergotamine

Instructions

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Keep medicine at room temperature. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

If your headache improves but does not completely disappear after taking this medicine, you may need a second dose.

If you need to take a second dose, wait at least 1 hour after taking your first dose.

This medicine should be used after a migraine headache starts. It should not be used to prevent a migraine headache.

You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

You may stop using this medicine if you no longer have symptoms.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine is associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems, heart attack, and stroke. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Using this medicine for 10 or more days in a month may make the headaches worse.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If you drink alcohol regularly, please speak with your doctor.

Avoid smoking while on this medicine. Smoking may increase your risk for stroke, heart attack, blood clots, high blood pressure, and other diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 3 days after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist how to safely discard unused medicines, needles and syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • nausea and vomiting
  • sweating

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • chest or jaw pain
  • feeling cold or numb, especially in arms and legs
  • blue coloring of hands or feet
  • cold hands or feet
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • muscle pain or weakness
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

 
 

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