Key takeaways
Frovatriptan (Frova) and ergotamine / caffeine (Migergot, formerly Cafergot) are both medications used to treat migraines, but they belong to different medication classes. Frovatriptan is a triptan, which works by tightening blood vessels in the brain and reducing swelling to relieve migraine pain. It is taken orally as a tablet. Ergotamine / caffeine is an ergot derivative combined with caffeine, which also tightens blood vessels and calms the brain to relieve headache pain. It is available as an oral tablet and a rectal suppository. Frovatriptan is FDA-approved for treating migraines with or without aura in adults, while ergotamine/caffeine is used for vascular headaches, including migraines and cluster headaches. Frovatriptan oral tablets can be taken up to three times in 24 hours, while ergotamine / caffeine oral tablets can be taken every 30 minutes as needed per headache episode, up to 6 tablets per episode and 10 tablets per week. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics. Common side effects of frovatriptan include dizziness and tiredness, whereas ergotamine / caffeine can cause nausea, vomiting and muscle pain. Both medications should not be taken with triptans within 24 hours.
