ERGOTAMINES Meaning and
Definition
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Ergotamines are a class of medications derived from a fungus called Claviceps purpurea. These drugs belong to the ergot alkaloid group and are primarily used for the treatment and prevention of migraine headaches.
Ergotamines work by constricting the blood vessels in the brain to alleviate the symptoms associated with migraines, such as severe headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. They specifically bind to serotonin receptors in the blood vessels, exerting a vasoconstrictive effect and reducing the pulsation of arteries.
Due to their strong vasoconstrictive properties, ergotamines should be used cautiously and strictly according to the prescribed dosage. They are typically taken orally as tablets or sublingually as a spray or tablet that dissolves under the tongue.
While ergotamines can be effective in treating migraines, they are associated with several potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and muscle pain or weakness. In rare cases, serious adverse events such as ergotism, which is characterized by symptoms like tingling or numbness in the limbs, muscle pain, and gangrene, can occur.
It is important to note that ergotamines should not be used by individuals with certain medical conditions such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease, and liver or kidney problems, as they may exacerbate these conditions. Additionally, ergotamines are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant.
Common Misspellings for ERGOTAMINES
- ergotamine
- wrgotamines
- srgotamines
- drgotamines
- rrgotamines
- 4rgotamines
- 3rgotamines
- eegotamines
- edgotamines
- efgotamines
- etgotamines
- e5gotamines
- e4gotamines
- erfotamines
- ervotamines
- erbotamines
- erhotamines
- eryotamines
- ertotamines
- ergitamines
Etymology of ERGOTAMINES
The word "ergotamines" is a combination of two components: "ergot" and "-amines".
1. Ergot: The term "ergot" refers to a type of fungus called Claviceps purpurea that affects cereal crops, particularly rye. Ergot contains several alkaloid compounds, including ergotamine, which is the active ingredient in the medication.
The origins of the word "ergot" can be traced back to the Old High German word "ergot", meaning "spur" or "goad". This likely refers to the shape of the fungal sclerotia, which are hard, black structures that resemble spurs or horns.
2. -amines: The suffix "-amines" in ergotamines refers to a class of organic compounds called "amines". Amines are characterized by the presence of a nitrogen atom (-NH2) bonded to carbon.
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