Dihydroergotamine ameliorates liver fibrosis by targeting transforming growth factor β type II receptor

BACKGROUND

The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the development of liver fibrosis by activating TGFβ type II receptor (TGFβR2), followed by the recruitment of TGFβR1 finally triggering downstream signaling pathway.

AIM

To find drugs targeting TGFβR2 that inhibit TGFβR1/TGFβR2 complex formation, theoretically inhibit TGFβ signaling pathway, and thereby ameliorate liver fibrosis.

METHODS

Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs were screened for binding affinity with TGFβR2 by virtual molecular docking. We identified 6 candidates and further explored their potential by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) cell cytotoxic experiment to validate toxicity and titrated the best cellular working concentrations. Next, we further demonstrated the detailed molecular working mechanisms using mutagenesis analysis. Finally, we used a mouse model to investigate its potential anti-liver fibrosis effect.

RESULTS

We identified 6 drug candidates. Among these 6 drugs, dihydroergotamine (DHE) shows great ability in reducing fibrotic gene expressions such as collagen, p-SMAD3, and α-SMA in TGFβ induced cellular model of liver fibrosis in LX-2 cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that DHE binds to TGFβR2. Moreover, mutation of Leu27, Phe30, Thr51, Ser52, Ile53, and Glu55 of TGFβR2 disrupted the binding of TGFβR2 with DHE. In addition, DHE significantly improved liver fibrosis, as evidenced by Masson’s trichrome staining of liver sections. This is further supported by the width and the velocity of the portal vein, and serum markers of liver function. In line with those observations, DHE also decreased macrophages infiltration and extracellular matrix deposition in the liver.

CONCLUSION

DHE alleviates liver fibrosis by binding to TGFβR2 thereby suppressing TGFβ signaling pathway. We show here that as far as drug repurposing, DHE has great potential to treat liver fibrosis.

Ergotism with acute limb ischemia, provoked by HIV protease inhibitors interaction with ergotamine, rescued by multisite transluminal balloon angioplasty

Acute limb ischemia induced by arterial vasospasm remains an exceptional situation, favoured by the use of arterial vasoconstrictors. The risk of these substances is largely underestimated in the general population, especially with the co-administration of strong cytochrome inhibitors like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitors. A 33-year-old woman, who used to take dihydroergotamine for orthostatic hypotension, was prescribed a post-exposure HIV prophylaxis including lopinavir and ritonavir. One day later, she presented an acute bilateral limb ischemia with a sudden pain in both calves, initially while walking and then at rest with bilateral ischemic toes. Angiography confirmed diffuse arterial vasospasm of the lower limb arteries. A first-line therapy with isosorbide dinitrate and amlodipine was ineffective, with rapid clinical worsening. A combination of intra-arterial injections and intra-venous infusions of vasodilators, transluminal balloon angioplasty and bilateral 4-Compartment fasciotomies permitted rapid improvement and finally resulted in both lower limbs rescue. This case and literature review illustrate ergotism due to ergotamine overdose after taking HIV protease inhibitors. It also demonstrates the benefit of an interventional procedure besides medical therapy with vasodilators in severe arterial vasospasm. All along the lower limb arterial tree, transluminal balloon angioplasty restored the blood flow, without vasospasm recurrence. CONCLUSION: In case of ergotism with acute lower limbs ischemia, combining medical vasodilator therapy with interventional procedure can restore the arterial blood flow, thus allowing to save lower limbs.

Effects of a supratherapeutic dose of investigational orally inhaled dihydroergotamine (MAP0004) on QT interval: a randomized, double-blind, active- and placebo-controlled crossover study in healthy volunteers

BACKGROUND

MAP0004 is an orally inhaled investigational drug containing dihydroergotamine (DHE). Although DHE has been used for 60 years with no reported cardiac arrhythmias, a thorough QT study had not previously been performed with DHE.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of MAP0004 on the QT interval as required for regulatory approval of a new product.

METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 3-period crossover study enrolled healthy volunteers. Subjects were assigned to receive, in randomized sequence, MAP0004 at a supratherapeutic dose (3-fold the clinically effective dose) (3.0 mg), moxifloxacin 400 mg, or inactive vehicle, each administered with 1 placebo capsule. Triplicate ECGs were performed continuously at baseline (day 0), before dosing, and over 24 hours after dosing in each treatment period. The effect on the QT interval was assessed using the Fridericia (QTcF) and individualized (QTcI) correction formulas.

RESULTS

Fifty-four healthy adults (20 men, 34 women; mean age, 28 years) completed the trial and had measurable plasma levels of DHE after MAP0004 administration. The largest observed mean difference in QTcI between MAP0004 and placebo was 0.08 msec, and the largest 1-sided 95% upper confidence bound was 2.24 msec, both at 30 minutes after dosing. In contrast, moxifloxacin increased the mean QTcI between 9.57 and 11.28 msec relative to placebo, with a 1-sided lower 95% CL between 7.23 and 8.96 msec, confirming that the assay sensitivity was sufficient to detect MAP0004-related effects. Nausea (27.8%) was common following MAP0004 administration but apparently did not influence the QTc interval.

CONCLUSIONS

A supratherapeutic dose of MAP0004 was not associated with prolonged QTc intervals. At the proposed clinical dose (1.0 mg), MAP0004 is unlikely to affect the QT interval. MAP0004 and its primary metabolite showed no evidence for prolongation of the QTc interval in healthy subjects according to the criteria required from regulatory agencies. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01191723.

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of MAP0004 (orally-inhaled DHE) in adult asthmatics

BACKGROUND

MAP0004 (a proprietary formulation of dihydroergotamine mesylate [DHE]) for inhaled delivery is being developed for acute migraine treatment. Because asthma and migraine often occur as co-morbid conditions, it is considered important to study the safety of MAP0004 in a population of asthmatic adults and to confirm that the pharmacokinetics of DHE, when inhaled by asthmatic subjects, were comparable to a population of healthy volunteers. The safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of orally-inhaled MAP0004 administered by the Tempo inhaler were studied in adult asthmatics.

SCOPE

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of two doses of inhaled MAP0004. Eligible subjects were randomized in a 2 : 1 ratio to MAP0004 or placebo and observed for 4 h after each dose. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined pre-dose and up to 36 h post-dose.

FINDINGS

Among 19 subjects, geometric mean AUC(0-36) was 6754 pg.h/mL and geometric mean AUC(0-inf) was 7483 pg.h/mL. Geometric mean t(max) was 9.6 min, geometric mean C(max) was 3174 pg/mL, and geometric mean t((1/2)) was 9.5 h. Overall, 13 of 19 (68%) subjects reported at least one adverse event, most commonly nausea, vomiting, dysgeusia, and headache.

CONCLUSION

MAP0004 results in rapid and efficient systemic absorption in asthmatic subjects. Systemic DHE concentrations were similar to those previously reported in healthy subjects, and no clinically relevant safety issues were observed. While this small study was suitable for pharmacokinetic analysis and conclusions, MAP0004 use in migraineurs with concomitant stable asthma should be supported by larger studies of longer duration to confirm that it does not present additional safety risks compared to non-asthmatic migraineurs.

Pharmacology of dihydroergotamine and evidence for efficacy and safety in migraine

Dihydroergotamine mesylate (DHE), an ergot alkaloid, has been extensively utilized and studied in the treatment of episodic and chronic migraine. This article reviews the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and clinical efficacy and safety of DHE, particularly in comparison to ergotamine tartrate (ET), a similar ergot alkaloid with a long history of use in the treatment of migraine. Structural differences between these 2 compounds account for clinically important distinctions in their pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and adverse event profiles. DHE is a significantly less potent arterioconstrictor than is ET, which makes it a potentially much safer drug. In addition, DHE is associated with a markedly lower incidence of medication-withdrawal headache, nausea, and vomiting than is ET. The safety and efficacy data presented here are derived from clinical trials and case series involving DHE administered by intravenous infusion, intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, or intranasal spray.

Parenteral Dihydroergotamine for Acute Migraine Headache: A Systematic Review of the Literature

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Many therapies are used in the treatment of acute migraine headache, with little agreement on effectiveness. This systematic review is designed to determine the effectiveness of parenteral dihydroergotamine in reducing pain, nausea, and relapse for episodes of acute migraine in adults.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials were identified using MEDLINE, EMBASE, other computerized databases, hand searching, bibliographies, and contacts with industry and authors. Studies in which dihydroergotamine (alone or in combination with an antiemetic) was compared with placebo or any other common migraine therapy were considered. Relevance, inclusion, and study quality were assessed independently by 2 reviewers.

RESULTS

From 281 potentially relevant abstracts, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Solitary dihydroergotamine use was compared to sumatriptan and phenothiazines in 3 studies; results failed to demonstrate a significant benefit of dihydroergotamine over these therapies. In 8 combination treatment studies, heterogeneity in study methodology prevented statistical pooling. However, dihydroergotamine administered with an antiemetic was as effective as or more effective than meperidine, valproate, or ketorolac across all pain, nausea, and relapse outcomes reported in all studies.

CONCLUSION

This evidence suggests that dihydroergotamine is not as effective as sumatriptan or phenothiazines as a single agent for treatment of acute migraine headache; however, when administered with an antiemetic, dihydroergotamine appears to be as effective as opiates, ketorolac, or valproate. Given its nonnarcotic properties, parenteral dihydroergotamine combined with an antiemetic should be considered as effective initial therapy in clinical practice.

Efficacy of intravenous diphenhydramine versus intravenous DHE-45 in the treatment of severe migraine headache

This study was conducted to compare the efficacy of intravenous diphenhydramine with dihydroergotamine mesylate (DHE-45; Novartis International AG, Switzerland) in the treatment of severe, refractory, migraine headache. A retrospective review was conducted to include eighty randomly chosen patients who were admitted to the Michigan Head Pain & Neurological Institute's inpatient program at Chelsea Community Hospital. Patients had received nine doses of diphenhydramine or nine doses of DHE-45 during a 3-day period. Patients receiving DHE-45 also received metoclopramide (Reglan; AH Robins Company, Inc., Richmond, VA) as prophylaxis for nausea. Demographics, headache diagnosis, psychiatric discharge diagnoses, abortive medications, and adverse events were recorded and assessed.

The PROMISE study: PROphylaxis of MIgraine with SEglor (dihydroergotamine mesilate) in French primary care

INTRODUCTION

Seglor capsules, a unique modified-release formulation of dihydroergotamine mesilate, have long been in clinical use in France for migraine prophylaxis. The aim of the PROMISE (PROphylaxis of MIgraine with SEglor) study was to establish the efficacy and tolerability of Seglor in the prevention of migraine in a general practice setting.

METHODS

The PROMISE study was a double blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study carried out in primary care practice. It included 363 migraine patients treated with Seglor or placebo for 5 months after a 1-month placebo run-in phase.

RESULTS

Migraine attack frequency (primary efficacy criterion) decreased markedly in the two treatment groups so that the difference in favour of Seglor did not reach statistical significance. However, most secondary outcome measures (duration of single attack, total duration of attacks over 1 month, consumption of mild opiate analgesics, subjective improvement) improved to a significantly greater degree in patients receiving Seglor than in those receiving placebo. In the 84.5% of patients who had impaired quality of life at entry, the percentage of reduction in attack frequency and most other efficacy measures showed significant improvement with Seglor. The safety profile for Seglor was comparable to that of placebo.

CONCLUSION

These results support the effectiveness of Seglor in patients with migraine-related quality-of-life impairment. The findings of the PROMISE study also suggest that patients' quality of life should be assessed systematically before initiating a preventive treatment for migraine.

[Transient global amnesia following the use of ergots in the treatment of migraine]

INTRODUCTION

Transient global amnesia (TGA) is defined as a selective, or almost selective, deficit of the memory that appears suddenly and lasts less than 24 hours. The aetiopathogenesis of this syndrome remains unknown and different theories have been put forward about its epileptic or ischemic origin, or the relationship that exists with the neuronal depression that is produced in migraine. A number of triggering factors have been described, including the taking of distinct pharmaceutical preparations.

CASE REPORT

We report the cases of two patients with a history of migraines who suffered TGA after taking ergotamine and dihydroergotamine, respectively, to treat an attack of migraine.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the vasoconstriction effect of these drugs, it was concluded that in both cases the main factor that triggered the TGA was the ingestion of ergots.

Ergotamine and dihydroergotamine: a review

The ergot alkaloids were the first specific antimigraine therapy available. However, with the advent of the triptans, their use in the treatment of migraine has declined and their role has become less clear. This review discusses the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of the ergots. In randomized clinical trials, oral ergotamine was found to be superior to placebo, but inferior to 100 mg of oral sumatriptan. In contrast, rectal ergotamine was found to have higher efficacy (73% headache relief) than rectal sumatriptan (63% headache relief). Intranasal dihydroergotamine was found to be superior to placebo, but less effective than subcutaneous and intranasal sumatriptan. Ergotamine is still widely used in some countries for the treatment of severe migraine attacks. It is generally regarded as a safe and useful drug if prescribed for infrequent use, in the correct dose, and in the absence of contraindications; however, safer and more effective options do exist in the triptans. In patients with status migrainous and patients with frequent headache recurrence, ergotamine is still probably useful.

Fibrosis due to ergot derivatives: exposure to risk should be weighed up

(1) Ergot derivatives are used for a variety of indications, including migraine, Parkinson's disease, endocrine disorders, and cognitive and neurosensory deficits in elderly people. (2) Fibrosis is a common complication of treatment with ergot derivatives. (3) Retroperitoneal fibrosis is the commonest form. Pleuropulmonary and pericardial fibrosis also occur. (4) Cardiac valve damage has been linked to some ergot derivatives. (5) Fibrosis occurs during long-term treatment. (6) Renal, pulmonary and cardiac complications can be serious. The fibrosis is often reversible if the drug is stopped quickly. (7) In practice, this risk of serious adverse effects tips the scales against these drugs for poorly established indications such as cognitive and neurosensory deficits in elderly people. The possibility of drug induced fibrosis should be considered at the first sign of renal, cardiac or pulmonary fibrosis in a patient on ergot derivatives.

Migraines

A 26-year-old woman is evaluated for headaches, which began when she was 14 years old. She states that she initially sees bright zig-zag bands, which expand in the shape of a horseshoe in her right visual field. Twenty minutes later, she develops a throbbing headache over the left frontal area, associated with photophobia and nausea. The headaches last 1-3 days and they occur once a month. There is no medical history, and she takes only multivitamin supplements. Her sister has been diagnosed with migraines. Her examination is normal, including equal and reactive pupils, full extraocular movements, and normal strength and sensation. A magnetic resonance scan of the brain shows no abnormalities.

[Effect of migraine medications on monocyte chemotaxis]

Monocytes play an important role in humoral as well as in cell-mediated immunity. In the present study, the influences of the anti-migraine preparations metoprolol, propranolol, metoclopramide, acetylsalicylic acid, dihydro-ergotamine and sumatriptan on monocyte chemotaxis were examined in vitro. First, mononuclear cells were isolated by centrifugation from venous blood samples obtained from 10 healthy male volunteers. Chemotaxis was determined using a microchemotaxis chamber. While metoprolol, metoclopramide, dihydroergotamine and sumatriptan did not influence monocyte chemotaxis, high doses of propranolol and acetylsalicylic acid caused a significant (p < or = 0.001) inhibition of this important cellular function. Therefore, it is quite possible that both drugs produce adverse immunological effects in vivo in cases of high dosage or obstruction of elimination.

Status migrainosus in children and adolescents

Data concerning status migrainosus in children and adolescents is sparse. The varied clinical presentations, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment modalities are discussed.

Triptans in childhood and adolescence

The triptans are medications that are the most important advance, to date, in the treatment of migraine. Their use in adolescents is highlighted, including indications, dosages, benefits, and adverse effects.

Ergotamine, dihydroergotamine: current uses and problems

In randomized clinical trials oral ergotamine was found superior to placebo but inferior to oral sumatriptan 100mg. In contrast rectal ergotamine was found to have higher efficacy (73% headache relief) than rectal sumatriptan (63% headache relief). Intranasal dihydroergotamine (DHE) was found superior to placebo but less effective than subcutaneous and intranasal sumatriptan. In general, the use of the more specific drugs, the triptans, causing less adverse events and being more effective, is preferable to the use of the ergotamine in the acute treatment of migraine. If ergotamine is to be used the rectal route is preferable. The rectal dose of ergotamine should be tailored to the individual patient. The intranasal dose of DHE , between 1 and 2 mg, should also be tailored to the individual patient. In order to avoid drug-induced headache ergotamine and DHE should not be used daily.

[Transformed migraine--chronic daily headache]

Transformed migraine is probably a common cause of chronic daily headache. The International Headache Society system of diagnostic classification of headache classifies headaches, not patients, and pays no attention to the long-term evolution of the patient's headache. We support the suggestion made by Silberstein et al. that transformed migraine should be used as a diagnostic label in patients suffering from chronic daily headache with "migrainous features" and a history of migraine. Since 1994, intravenous treatment with dihydroergotamine (DHE) has been used for these patients. Among 16 patients suffering from chronic daily headache which were treated with this drug in 1996, 10 patients reported complete relief of headache at discharge from the hospital, but only four patients experienced complete relief from headache for more than two weeks. We think that the most important treatment for these patients are medicament withdrawal, information, help and support so that patients may cope with their headache. Dihydroergotamine can help patients going through a withdrawal regime.

[Finger tip necroses after dihydroergotamine medication in limited systemic scleroderma]

A 78 year old women developed acute fingertip necrosis just a few days after starting dihydroergotamine. The lesions healed in 3 weeks after the medication was stopped. The patient had suffered from Raynaud syndrome for 5 years and limited systemic sclerosis was diagnosed during the necrotic episode. Advanced age and microangiopathies are contraindications to the use of ergot-containing preparations.

Double-blind, multicenter trial to compare the efficacy of intramuscular dihydroergotamine plus hydroxyzine versus intramuscular meperidine plus hydroxyzine for the emergency department treatment of acute migraine headache

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To evaluate intramuscular dihydroergotamine in direct comparison with opioid analgesia in the treatment of acute migraine headache.

METHODS

This was a prospective, multicenter, double-blind trial performed in the emergency departments of 11 general hospitals in the United States. One hundred seventy-one patients between the ages of 18 and 60 years who presented to the ED with acute migraine headache were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either 1 mg dihydroergotamine (DHE) or 1.5 mg/kg meperidine (MEP) by intramuscular injection. The anti-nauseant hydroxyzine (H) was coadministered in both treatment groups.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-six patients were evaluable. Treatment groups were comparable in sample size, demographics, and baseline measurements of headache pain. Reduction of headache pain as measured on a 100-mm visual analog scale was 41+/-33 mm (53.5% reduction) for the DHE group, and 45+/-30 mm (55.7% reduction) for the MEP group at 60 minutes after treatment (difference=2.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI] -10%, 14.5%; P=.81). Reduction in the severity of nausea and improvement in functional ability were similar between treatment groups. Central nervous system adverse events were less common in the DHE group (DHE 23.5% versus MEP 37.6%, difference-14.1%: 95% CI -28%, 0%). In particular, dizziness was reported less commonly with DHE than MEP (2% versus 15%, difference=-13%: 95% CI -21%, -5%).

CONCLUSION

In this prospective, double-blind trial of a convenience sample of ED patients randomly assigned to one of two treatment regimens, DHE and MEP were comparable therapies for acute migraine. The use of DHE avoids several problems associated with opioid analgesia, including dizziness.

Coronary side-effect potential of current and prospective antimigraine drugs

BACKGROUND

The antimigraine drugs ergotamine and sumatriptan may cause angina-like symptoms, possibly resulting from coronary artery constriction. We compared the coronary vasoconstrictor potential of a number of current and prospective antimigraine drugs (ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, methysergide and its metabolite methylergometrine, sumatriptan, naratriptan, zolmitriptan, rizatriptan, avitriptan).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Concentration-response curves to the antimigraine drugs were constructed in human isolated coronary artery segments to obtain the maximum contractile response (Emax) and the concentration eliciting 50% of Emax (EC50). The EC50 values were related to maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) reported in patients, obtaining Cmax/EC50 ratios as an index of coronary vasoconstriction occurring in the clinical setting. Furthermore, we studied the duration of contractile responses after washout of the acutely acting antimigraine drugs to assess their disappearance from the receptor biophase. Compared with sumatriptan, all drugs were more potent (lower EC50 values) in contracting the coronary artery but had similar efficacies (Emax <25% of K+-induced contraction). The Cmax of avitriptan was 7- to 11-fold higher than its EC50 value, whereas those of the other drugs were <40% of their respective EC50 values. The contractile responses to ergotamine and dihydroergotamine persisted even after repeated washings, but those to the other drugs declined rapidly after washing.

CONCLUSIONS

All current and prospective antimigraine drugs contract the human coronary artery in vitro, but in view of low efficacy, these drugs are unlikely to cause myocardial ischemia at therapeutic plasma concentrations in healthy subjects. In patients with coronary artery disease, however, these drugs must remain contraindicated. The sustained contraction by ergotamine and dihydroergotamine seems to be an important disadvantage compared with sumatriptan-like drugs.

[Bilateral ischemic optic neuropathy secondary to acute ergotism]

We report a case of a 31 year-old man who presented a bilateral ischemic optic neuropathy associated with headaches and severe systemic hypertension. This episode appeared after administration of ergotamine tartrate and macrolides. This medication probably led to a vasospasm which occurs in patients with hypertension. The cardiovascular and serum lipid evaluations were normal. A migraine optic neuropathy can be evoked.

Ergotamine tartrate and dihydroergotamine mesylate: safety profiles

Ergotamine tartrate (ET) and dihydroergotamine mesylate (DHE) have been widely and effectively used in the treatment of migraine for many decades, although few randomized, controlled clinical trials have been conducted with these compounds. To compare their safety profiles, the world literature on the two agents was surveyed. The results are summarized, along with a critical analysis of the strengths and limitations of the various sources of safety data (in vitro research, animal studies, Phase I and II studies, controlled clinical trials, and postmarketing surveillance). Significant pharmacologic and safety differences exist between ET and DHE. Dihydroergotamine mesylate is a less potent arterial vasoconstrictor than ET, although nearly equipotent as a venoconstrictor. It is a more potent alpha-adrenergic antagonist, but is much less emetic, has less effect on the uterus, and is not associated with rebound headache. Adverse effects associated with ET (which are often due to excessive dosage and/or chronic usage) include nausea, acroparesthesia, ischemia, habituation and overuse headache, and, rarely, overt ergotism. Reports of serious adverse effects following recommended doses of DHE are rare. As with most antimigraine drugs, the most frequent adverse effect with intravenous (i.v.) DHE is nausea; however, following intramuscular (i.m.) or intranasal (IN) administration, the incidence of nausea is low and concomitant administration of an antiemetic is not needed. In patients without contraindications, both DHE and ET are safe and effective when used in recommended doses. Nearly 50 years of clinical experience without major safety problems allows a high level of confidence in their clinical use.

A comparison of subcutaneous sumatriptan and dihydroergotamine nasal spray in the acute treatment of migraine

We compared the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous (SC) sumatriptan (6 mg) with that of dihydroergotamine (DHE) nasal spray (1 mg plus optional 1 mg) in the acute treatment of migraine. Two hundred sixty-six adult migraineurs (International Headache Society criteria) completed a multicenter, double-blind, double-dummy, cross-over study. Patients took SC sumatriptan for one attack and DHE nasal spray for the other in random order. Data from both treatment periods show that at all time points from 15 minutes, SC sumatriptan was significantly better than DHE nasal spray at providing both headache relief (moderate/severe headache improving to mild/none) and resolution of headache. Similarly, SC sumatriptan was superior to DHE nasal spray for the other efficacy end points assessed in the study. Patients reported that both treatments were well tolerated. Adverse events were reported by 43% of patients taking SC sumatriptan and 22% of patients taking DHE nasal spray. These were usually mild and transient. We conclude that subcutaneous sumatriptan has a faster onset of action than DHE nasal spray and provides greater relief of acute migraine symptoms.

Serotonin syndrome complicating migraine pharmacotherapy

Serotonin syndrome, a condition with numerous clinical neurological manifestations, is the result of central serotonergic hyperstimulation. Features of the syndrome include mental status and behavioral changes (agitation, excitement, hypomania, obtundation), motor system involvement (myoclonus, hemiballismus, tremor, hyperreflexia, motor weakness, dysarthria, ataxia) and autonomic symptoms (fever, chills, diarrhea). Serotonin syndrome has been reported exclusively in patients on medications for psychiatric illness and Parkinsonism, despite the fact that the putative action of many antimigraine agents also involves the serotonin system. We herein report six patients with migraine who developed symptoms suggestive of the serotonin syndrome. Five were taking one or more serotomimetic agents for migraine prophylaxis (sertraline, paroxetine, lithium, imipramine, amitriptyline). In each case the symptoms and signs developed in close temporal proximity with use of a migraine abortive agent known to interact with serotonin receptors. In three instances the agent was subcutaneous sumatriptan and, in three, intravenous dihydroergotamine. In each instance the symptoms were transient and there was full recovery. With the ever increasing use of migraine medications active at serotonin receptor sites, cases of serotonin syndrome will likely occur more frequently. It is important that physicians treating migraine are aware of the serotonin syndrome and are able to recognize its varying presentations.

Renal papillary necrosis following emergency department treatment of migraine

New medications have lessened the need for narcotic medications in the acute treatment of migraine. Some of these new medications include parenteral dihydroergotamine (DHE), sumatriptan, and ketorolac. Treatment failures still occur, though, and some cases necessitate adding a second agent to one that has been ineffective. We report a case of a 46-year-old man who suffered renal papillary necrosis 12 days after receiving parenteral DHE, sumatriptan, and ketorolac for treatment of a severe migraine headache. There were no signs of an adverse drug reaction at the time of his emergency department visit. The case illustrates a potential hazard of this combination in the acute treatment of migraine.

Early and transient side effects of repetitive intravenous dihydroergotamine

Side effects associated with administration of repetitive intravenous dihydroergotamine (DHE) were prospectively studied in 72 patients with chronic daily headache who were hospitalized in a dedicated inpatient headache treatment program. All patients received 11 consecutive doses of DHE, starting with 0.25 mg and increasing by 0.25 mg up to a maximum dose of 1.25 mg, depending on side effects and/or headache relief. The adverse events were recorded after each dose administered. The great majority of patients (91.6%) reported at least one side effect. The most common were: nausea (72.2%), increase in previous headache (47.2%), lightheadedness (33.3%), "new" headache (27.8%), and leg cramps (23.6%). The overall number of side effect complaints did not increase proportionally with the strength of the dose of DHE administered. These complaints declined from the earlier to the later doses of DHE, except for leg cramps, which were more common with the later doses. Side effects determined the strength of subsequent doses of DHE in only 18.1% of patients. Only four patients had to have a decrease in dosage and none required termination of DHE due to side effects. Although repetitive intravenous DHE causes frequent side effects, they are usually mild and transient and decrease with subsequent doses, even at higher doses.

Onset of neurologic deficits after treatment with dihydroergotamine in a patient with sagittal sinus thrombosis

A woman with a 7-year history of intermittent migraine had 3 months of gradually worsening headaches. Initial neurologic examination including fundus examination was normal, and initial head computerized tomographic (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were thought to be normal. The patient was given dihydroergotamine (DHE-45), 1.0 mg, intravenously for relief of headache. Five hours later, she complained of severe diffuse headache and nausea. Neurologic examination showed left arm weakness and sensory loss, blurring of the left optic disc, and bilateral Babinski signs. Cerebral arteriography demonstrated thrombosis of the sagittal sinus, which in retrospect was present on the initial contrast CT scan and MRI scan. The patient's deficits worsened, and she eventually died 20 days later as a result of cerebral infarctions and increased intracranial pressure, despite attempts at selective thrombolysis of the sagittal sinus. DHE has potent venoconstrictive effects. We suspect that DHE helped precipitate neurologic deterioration in this patient with sagittal sinus thrombosis.

Gangrene and renal failure caused by dihydroergotamine used to treat raised intracranial pressure following head trauma

A case of peripheral gangrene and renal failure following the use of dihydroergotamine (DHE) for treatment of raised intracranial pressure (ICP) is reported. There have been several reports of vasospasm and peripheral gangrene caused by DHE used in combination with heparin for prevention of deep venous thrombosis. Clinical experience with the use of DHE in head trauma is limited. This case report emphasises the seriousness of the adverse effects associated with the use of this drug.

The effect of enoxaparin in prevention of deep venous thrombosis in hip and knee surgery--a comparison with the dihydroergotamine-heparin combination

A randomized study was carried out in order to compare the low-molecular heparin enoxaparin to heparin-dihydroergotamine (HDHE) combination, as prophylactic anti-thrombotic measure in patients undergoing hip replacement or knee replacement surgery or fractures of the femoral neck. A total of 165 patients both female and male were included in the study. The patients were randomized into two treatment groups. One group was treated with heparin-dihydroergotamine 0.5 mg + 5,000 IU twice a day and the other with enoxaparin 40 mg once daily. All patients were examined with Doppler ultrasound on day 3-5 and after the termination of medication which was the end of the study. Positive Doppler ultrasound findings were confirmed either by duplex Doppler or phlebography and clinical signs of pulmonary embolism were confirmed by isotope scintigraphy. The overall incidence of thromboembolic events was low (3%). One deep venous thrombosis (DVT) was seen in the enoxaparin group and two cases of pulmonary embolism in the heparin-dihydroergotamine group. Thus, the two regimens showed comparable efficacy and the overall safety was comparable. However, enoxaparin caused significantly less injection site haematoma. Correspondingly, the size of the injection site haematoma was significantly smaller in the enoxaparin group.

[Calcium carbasalate-metoclopramide combination versus dihydroergotamine in the treatment of migraine attacks]

In this randomised, double-blind, cross-over study the association of calcium carbasalate+metoclopramide was compared with oral dihydroergotamine mesilate in the treatment of migraine attacks. 155 patients suffering from migraine, with or without aura were analysed; the main efficacy criteria being the evolution of the headache intensity: disappearance of headache 2 hours after administration or incomplete improvement (severe to moderate headache reduced to slight headache). There was a significantly greater reduction in headache intensity following administration of CSC-METO (p < 0.001), the percentage of patients showing recovery or improvement two hours after administration being 64.5% with CSC-METO compared to 43.5% with DHE. A significantly more marked improvement following administration of CSC-METO was also observed for nausea, photophobia, phonophobia, use of analgesic treatment, impact on normal activities and overall assessment by the patient and physician. The frequency of undesirable events was weak and identical for both treatments.

Acute treatment of migraine attacks

Migraine is a chronic neurological disorder, characterized by attacks of severe, usually unilateral and throbbing headache accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and photophobia and photophobia. Sometimes transient neurological (aura) symptoms may precede or accompany the headaches. Acute drug therapy comprises nonspecific drugs, including simple analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, often in combination with antiemetics, and specific antimigraine drugs, such as ergotamine, dihydroergotamine and sumatriptan. Sumatriptan is a potent and selective serotonin1D receptor agonist, which can be administered orally and via the subcutaneous or intranasal route. The drug is well tolerated and is consistently highly effective in most patients. Significant limitations, however, include the occurrence of chest symptoms, suggestive of cardiac ischaemia; recurrence of the headache within 24 h after initial successful treatment; and in a minority of patients, abuse of sumatriptan with daily 'sumatriptan-dependent headaches'. Administration during the aura phase does not affect the aura itself, but is not recommended because the subsequent headache will not be prevented in that case. Preliminary data of new serotonin1D receptor agonists, such as 311C90 and MK-462 are promising in terms of increased efficacy after oral administration, but side-effect profile and incidence of headache recurrence are similar to those observed after the use of sumatriptan. Intranasal administration of dihydroergotamine may also be effective, but data are very limited.

Comparison of dihydroergotamine with metoclopramide versus meperidine with promethazine in the treatment of acute migraine

Migraineurs often seek office-based treatment for acute headache. To compare the efficacy and side effect profile, we entered 27 migraineurs into a prospective, randomized, double-blind study where each patient received either 75 mg meperidine with 25 mg promethazine IM or .5 mg dihydroergotamine with 10 mg metoclopramide IV. After 1 hour, pain relief was similar in the two groups, but side effects were significantly greater in the meperidine with promethazine regimen group. The dihydroergotamine with metoclopramide regimen is effective, and has minimal side effects, making it an attractive method for office-based treatment of acute migraine.

[Loss of the replanted thumb by drug-induced ergotism]

Vasospastic reactions are known to be a complication of thromboembolic prophylaxis with Heparin-dihydroergotamine. We describe a rare case after successful replantation of an amputated thumb. On the third day after surgery, Heparin-dihydroergotamine was administered once. Within three hours, the thumb turned pale and cold. At revision, a spasm of the artery proved to be the cause of ischemia. Therapeutic efforts were unsuccessful, even intraarterial injection of Prostaglandin E1 and the interposition of a vein graft. Amputation became necessary. Because of the possible complication with ergotism and the consequence of a failed replantation, we suggest not to use Heparin-dihydroergotamine for thromboembolic prophylaxis in microsurgery.

[Increased wound healing disorders in patients with inguinal hernia caused by administration of antithrombotic agents in the abdominal wall]

In a prospective, randomized study, including 108 patients, we investigated the effect of different locations for the subcutaneous injection of low dosed or low molecular heparin following standard herniotomia. In the group with injection into the contralateral abdominal wall the rate of local surgical complications was four times higher compared to those patients with injections into the thigh. Thus we conclude that after herniotomia low dosed or low molecular heparin should be applied into the subcutis of the thigh.

Low doses of heparin and heparin dihydergot in postoperative thromboprophylaxis in gynaecological patients

A prospective study of postoperative thromboembolic prophylaxis involving 500 gynaecological patients was performed to compare the effectiveness and safety of low doses of heparin (LDH) and heparin-dihydergot (HDHE). In the LDH group 255 patients (51%) aged 26-84 were included, in the HDHE group there were 245 patients (49%) aged 34-86. Both groups were well matched with respect to risk factors, duration of surgery, type of operation, volume of blood transfused and duration of prophylaxis. Thromboembolism was detected in 48 patients (9.6%): 26 patients (10.2%) in the LDH group and 22 patients (9%) in the HDHE group. In the LDH group isotopic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was found in 23 patients (9%), five of them had pulmonary embolism (PE), detected by lung perfusion scanning without clinical signs of PE, three patients developed clinical PE without detected DVT. In the HDHE group, 22 patients (9%) had isotopic DVT and five of them had PE detected by lung perfusion scanning. In the incidence of TE there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.1). Within two months after surgery late clinically manifest TE confirmed by isotopic venography developed in five patients (1.9%) in the LDH group and in one patient (0.4%) in the HDHE group. Wound haematomas appeared in 8 patients (3.1%) in the LDH group and in 9 patients (3.7%) in the HDHE group. There were no ischemic complications (ergotism) in the HDHE group. The HDHE prophylaxis proved no more effective and was ten times more expensive than the usual prevention with LDH.

Dihydroergotamine nasal spray for the acute treatment of migraine

We conducted a multicenter, double-blind, parallel-group study to compare the efficacy and safety of dihydroergotamine (DHE) nasal spray and placebo over 4 hours in the treatment of migraine. Of the 112 patients enrolled, 100 were included in the "intent-to-treat" efficacy analysis. The patients self-administered either 2.0 mg DHE (0.5 mg per nostril, repeated after 15 minutes) or placebo at the onset of two separate headaches and rated hourly the drugs' effects on pain severity, pain relief, nausea, and vomiting. The physicians assessed the overall effectiveness of the drugs in relieving headache pain, nausea, and vomiting. Both the patients' and physicians' ratings indicated that DHE was significantly superior to placebo in improving headache and nausea; according to the patients' ratings, these between-group differences were already significant at the first (hour 1) evaluation. There were no significant differential treatment effects with respect to relief of vomiting. Most adverse events were mild or moderate, confined to the nasopharyngeal area, and probably related to the route of administration. We conclude that DHE nasal spray is a safe and effective treatment for the pain and nausea of migraine attacks.

Regression of deep vein thrombosis by i.v.-administration of a low molecular weight heparin--results of a pilot study

Twenty-five patients with phlebographically confirmed deep vein thrombosis of the lower limb were treated with intravenous infusions of low molecular weight heparin for 7 to 29 days. The mean dosage was 15.2 +/- 3.0 Uanti-Xa (equivalent 7.6 +/- 1.5 U-aPTT). Phlebograms were taken before, during and after the treatment with low molecular weight heparin and evaluated using the score system of Marder. Nearly complete recanalization of the occluded veins was found in six (24%) patients, improvement of the Marder score of 60 to 90% was found in four patients and of 30 to 60% in seven patients, while eight patients remained unchanged. With an average dose of 15.2 I.U./kg/h the heptest was prolonged to 70 to 120 seconds while the aPTT-level did not significantly increase. tPA-antigen-levels increased significantly in most of the patients after the third day of treatment, while PAI-activity remained unchanged. A positive conclusion between the decrease of the Marder score and the duration of treatment was found. Thus the low molecular weight heparin used in this investigation proved to be effective and safe in treating deep vein thrombosis.

[Treatment of migraine attacks: combination of dihydroergotamine tartrate and paracetamol in comparison with individual drugs and placebo]

BACKGROUND AND METHODS

In a multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study safety and efficacy of oral dihydroergotamine tartrate (DHE) 2 mg, paracetamol 1000 mg, and a fixed combination of these two agents was compared for the relief of migraine attacks. The effect of the four different treatments on severity and duration of migraine headache was assessed pretreatment and at one and two hours post-treatment in the patient diary (10 point numerical rating scale 0 = no pain, 9 = unbearable pain). Nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia, and adverse events were also recorded in the patient diary.

RESULTS

For 288 patients (81% female, 19% male) of 474 enrolled the results of four consecutive migraine attacks could be evaluated; 186 patients were excluded from the analyses because of missing data or protocol violations. Compared with placebo, headache severity was significantly reduced after all three treatments at one and two hours and all three treatments resulted in statistically significant rapid relief of pain, proving a superior effect of the combination over the mono agents. Duration of headache was significantly shorter when the combination was taken and the number of patients having either no headache or a reduction of pain of more than 50% after one and two hours was bigger in the combination group. Eight adverse events were experienced in patients during placebo treatment, seven in patients during treatment with the fixed combination, five in patients during DHE treatment and two in patients during paracetamol treatment. All adverse events were transitory and none was serious.

CONCLUSION

The oral combination of 2 mg DHE and 1000 mg paracetamol is safe and effective in the treatment of acute migraine attacks and should be first choice of therapy in patients who do not respond to mild analgesics like paracetamol alone.

Analgesic rebound headache: experience in a community hospital

In the past, chronic daily headaches have been attributed to many possible causes, including "tension," excessive contraction of pericranial muscles, and depression. A careful history reveals that many patients start out with fairly typical intermittent migraine attacks that evolve over the years into a pattern of daily or almost daily head pain. Overuse of analgesics is usually a part of this clinical picture, which has been termed "analgesic rebound headache." Fifty-three of the first 100 patients admitted to a community hospital's inpatient headache treatment program had chronic daily headaches and were overusing analgesics or other headache relief medications. We report our retrospective review of these patients and describe treatment of this difficult and sometimes unrecognized syndrome, primarily with intravenous dihydroergotamine (DHE). Results at hospital discharge and at follow-up several months later showed significant reduction of pain.

Office-based treatment of acute migraine with dihydroergotamine mesylate

The Regional Migraine Field Trial assessed the efficacy and safety of dihydroergotamine mesylate (D.H.E. 45) for migraine in the office setting. Patients were admitted to the study provided they met the International Headache Society definition of migraine with or without aura. Thirty-eight neurologists enrolled 311 patients (274 women and 37 men) between the ages of 13 and 70 years in this open-design study. Ninety-five percent of the patients had moderate or severe headache pain at entry, and 62% had nausea. All patients received a single intramuscular injection of D.H.E. 45 1 mg. A second intramuscular injection of 1 mg was given 60 minutes after the first injection, if needed. An antiemetic was administered concomitantly with D.H.E. 45, if needed. Rescue therapy was given at the investigators' discretion. Efficacy was judged by the relief of pain, patients' ability to function, need for a second injection, need for rescue medication, and need for an antiemetic. At 30 and 60 minutes, 46% and 72% of patients had only mild or no head pain, respectively. At 24 hours, 77% of all patients had mild or no head pain. D.H.E. 45 also improved functional ability. At 30 and 60 minutes, 58% and 75% of patients had only mild or no disability, respectively. At 24 hours, 81% had mild or no impairment. Nausea was present in 62% of patients at the outset, 40% of patients at 30 minutes, and 30% at 60 minutes. An antiemetic was given to 43% of patients at the outset. The presence of nausea was similar whether or not patients received an antiemetic.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)