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Compare Frova vs. Ergotamine

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

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.

  • Frovatriptan (Frova)
    Ergomar (ergotamine)
  • Frovatriptan (Frova)
    Ergomar (ergotamine)

  • Summary of Frova vs. Ergotamine

    Summary for Triptan
    Prescription only

    Frovatriptan (Frova) is one of the many triptans available for treating migraine. It's approved for adults who have migraines with or without aura. The dosage is a tablet that's swallowed whole when you have a migraine. You can take another tablet 2 hours later if the medication doesn't completely relieve your migraine. Side effects include dizziness, tiredness, and sometimes chest tightness. Frovatriptan (Frova) is available as a brand-name and generic medication.

    Summary for Ergot derivative
    Prescription only

    Ergomar (ergotamine) treats migraines. It's an ergot medication. It works by lessening inflammation in the brain and calming certain parts of the brain. Ergomar (ergotamine) is a brand-name medication that comes as sublingual tablets for adults. You place it under the tongue to dissolve as soon as you feel like you're about to have a migraine or headache. Side effects include nausea and vomiting.

  • Indications of Frova vs. Ergotamine

    Indications for
    •Treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults
    Indications for
    •Treatment of migraines

  • Pros and Cons of Frova vs. Ergotamine

    Pros and Const for Triptan
    Pros
    •A first-choice option for short-term treatment of migraines
    •Effects might last longer than other triptans
    Cons
    •Might not be a good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills whole during a migraine
    •Might take about 2 hours or longer to feel complete pain relief
    •Not recommended for children under 18 years old
    Pros and Const for Ergot derivative
    Pros
    •Dissolves under the tongue, so it's easy to take
    •Can take a second tablet 30 minutes after you first take it if you need more relief
    •Can take on an as-needed basis
    Cons
    •Doesn't work as well as triptans
    •Not recommended for preventing migraines
    •Not for daily or long-term use

  • Common Side Effects of Frova vs. Ergotamine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (8%)
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Headache (4%)
    •"Pins and needles" feeling in the hands or legs (4%)
    •Flushing (4%)
    •Dry mouth (3%)
    •Hot or cold sensation (3%)
    •Bone pain (3%)
    •Indigestion (2%)
    •Chest pain (2%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Numbness or tingling
    •Weakness

  • Warnings of Frova vs. Ergotamine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Heart attack and chest pain (angina)
    •Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
    •Stroke or other brain injury
    •Extreme narrowing of blood vessels
    •Worse headaches if you take frovatriptan (Frova) too often
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •High blood pressure
    •Allergic reaction
    Common Side Effects for
    •Poor blood flow through the body
    •More severe blood circulation problems due to drug interactions
    •Fibrosis (scarring)
    •Harm to an unborn baby

  • Prices with our coupons for Frova vs. Ergotamine

    Learn more about Frovatriptan
    Learn more about Ergomar

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