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Compare Maxalt vs. Ergotamine

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

Key takeaways

Rizatriptan (Maxalt) and Ergotamine (Ergomar) are both used to treat migraines, but they have some key differences. Rizatriptan (Maxalt) is a triptan that works by tightening blood vessels and lowering inflammation in the brain. It is available as a generic and comes in both oral and orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) forms. Ergotamine (Ergomar), on the other hand, is an ergot derivative that also tightens blood vessels but works more slowly and lasts longer. It is taken sublingually (under the tongue) and does not have a generic form. Rizatriptan (Maxalt) can be used by children ages 6 and older, while Ergotamine (Ergomar) is not typically a first-choice medication and is not recommended for children. Both medications can cause severe side effects, such as the risk of poor blood flow to the hands and feet. Ergotamine is not safe for use during pregnancy, while the safety of using Rizatriptan during pregnancy is unknown. Both medications should not be used together or within 24 hours of each other due to the risk of serious side effects.

  • Rizatriptan (Maxalt)
    Ergomar (ergotamine)
  • Rizatriptan (Maxalt)
    Ergomar (ergotamine)

  • Summary of Maxalt vs. Ergotamine

    Summary for Triptan
    Prescription only

    Rizatriptan (Maxalt) is used to treat migraines with or without aura in people ages 6 years and older. Rizatriptan (Maxalt) is available as a lower-cost generic tablet and an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) that's placed on the tongue. Common side effects include dizziness, headache, and sleepiness. It can interact with antidepressants and other similar migraine medications.

    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 Maxalt vs. Ergotamine

    Indications for
    •Treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in people ages 6 years and older
    Indications for
    •Treatment of migraines

  • Pros and Cons of Maxalt vs. Ergotamine

    Pros and Const for Triptan
    Pros
    •First-choice option for treating migraines
    •Can be used by children ages 6 years and older
    •Orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) a possible option for people who have problems swallowing
    •Works within 30 minutes
    Cons
    •Can't use to prevent migraines
    •Is short-acting, so it might not last as long
    •Not clear if taking a second dose (adults only) is actually helpful
    •Your migraines can get worse if you use this medication too often.
    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 Maxalt vs. Ergotamine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (4-9%)
    •Sleepiness (4-8%)
    •Tiredness (4-7%)
    •Nausea (4-6%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Numbness or tingling
    •Weakness

  • Warnings of Maxalt vs. Ergotamine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Heart problems and high blood pressure
    •Stroke or other brain injury
    •Extreme narrowing of blood vessels
    •Taking too much rizatriptan (Maxalt)
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablets only
    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 Maxalt vs. Ergotamine

    Learn more about Rizatriptan
    Learn more about Ergomar

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