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Compare Elavil vs. Cafergot

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Amitriptyline (formerly branded as Elavil) and Cafergot (ergotamine/caffeine) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) primarily used to treat depression, though it is also used off-label for nerve pain and migraine prevention. In contrast, Cafergot is a combination of ergotamine and caffeine, used to treat migraines and cluster headaches. Amitriptyline works by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain to improve mood, while Cafergot tightens blood vessels and calms certain parts of the brain to relieve headache pain. The brand names for both medications are discontinued, but they are still available in generic forms. Amitriptyline can cause side effects like sleepiness and weight gain, and it has many drug interactions. Cafergot, on the other hand, can cause nausea and numbness and should not be used frequently due to the risk of serious side effects like poor blood flow to the brain and limbs. Additionally, Cafergot is not safe for use during pregnancy, while amitriptyline does not have this specific restriction.

  • Amitriptyline
    Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine)
  • Amitriptyline
    Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine)

  • Summary of Elavil vs. Cafergot

    Summary for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Amitriptyline is FDA approved to treat depression. But it isn't as commonly used today as other antidepressants because it can cause a lot of side effects, such as sleepiness and weight gain. In addition, amitriptyline has many interactions with other medications, including other antidepressants, sedatives, and antihistamines. But despite the side effects and interactions, amitriptyline is often used off label for nerve pain due to diabetes and migraine prevention. While its brand name Elavil is no longer available, amitriptyline is available as a generic medication.

    Summary for Ergot derivative / PDE inhibitor, nonselective
    Prescription only

    Cafergot (ergotamine / caffeine) is used to treat cluster headaches and migraines in adults. It's available as a tablet that's taken by mouth, as well as a suppository that's inserted into the rectum. Typically, you take a dose as soon as you feel a headache coming on. But there's a limit to how many doses you can take each week because taking this medication too often can lead to serious side effects, such as vomiting and numbness. Brand name Cafergot is discontinued.

  • Indications of Elavil vs. Cafergot

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Headache pain caused by swollen or widened blood vessels (vascular headaches)

  • Pros and Cons of Elavil vs. Cafergot

    Pros and Const for Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Available in many different strengths
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic form
    •Can take with or without food
    Cons
    •Has many unpleasant side effects compared to other antidepressants
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it after long-term use
    •Not the best choice for people with heart problems, glaucoma, or seizures or people age 65 years and older
    Pros and Const for Ergot derivative / PDE inhibitor, nonselective
    Pros
    •Suppository is a good option for people who've trouble swallowing pills
    •Tablet is available as a lower-cost generic
    •Can start to feel relief after a half hour (for the tablets) or an hour (for the suppository); and you may take an additional dose if no relief
    Cons
    •Not for daily or long-term use
    •Can't take while pregnant
    •Not safe for use for people with kidney or liver problems
    •Rectal suppository is brand name only and requires refrigeration

  • Common Side Effects of Elavil vs. Cafergot

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Weakness
    •Fatigue
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Weight gain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea

  • Warnings of Elavil vs. Cafergot

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
    •Seizures
    •Glaucoma
    •Higher risk of falls
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dangerously low blood flow to your brain and limbs
    •Fibrosis (scarring)
    •Allergic reaction to yellow dye

  • Prices with our coupons for Elavil vs. Cafergot

    Learn more about Amitriptyline
    Learn more about Cafergot

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