Key takeaways
Frovatriptan (Frova) and ergotamine (Ergomar) are both medications used to treat migraines, but they belong to different medication classes. Frovatriptan is a triptan, while ergotamine is an ergot derivative. Both medications work by tightening blood vessels in the brain to relieve migraine pain, but frovatriptan also stops other pain signals from releasing through the nervous system. Frovatriptan is taken orally as a tablet, while ergotamine is taken sublingually, meaning it dissolves under the tongue. Frovatriptan is available as a lower-cost generic, whereas ergotamine is only available as a brand-name medication. Common side effects of frovatriptan include dizziness and tiredness, while ergotamine can cause nausea and vomiting. Both medications can cause serious side effects like high blood pressure and stroke, but ergotamine has additional risks like poor blood flow to the hands and feet. Neither medication should be taken with triptans within 24 hours.
