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Compare Zomig vs. Ergotamine

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

Key takeaways

Zolmitriptan (Zomig) and ergotamine (Ergomar) are both prescription medications used to treat migraines, but they have some key differences. Zolmitriptan is a triptan that works by attaching to serotonin receptors to reduce blood vessel swelling and stop pain signals. It comes in various forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and nasal spray. It's typically taken at the first sign of a migraine. On the other hand, ergotamine is an ergot derivative that tightens blood vessels and calms parts of the brain. It's taken sublingually (under the tongue) and is not usually a first-choice treatment. Ergomar is also used for cluster headaches, while Zomig is not. Zomig can cause side effects like dizziness and chest pain, whereas Ergomar can cause nausea and vomiting. Additionally, Ergomar has a longer-lasting effect but works slower than Zomig. Both medications should not be used frequently to avoid rebound headaches and other serious side effects.

  • Zolmitriptan (Zomig)
    Ergomar (ergotamine)
  • Zolmitriptan (Zomig)
    Ergomar (ergotamine)

  • Summary of Zomig vs. Ergotamine

    Summary for Triptan
    Prescription only

    Zolmitriptan (Zomig) is used for the short-term treatment of migraines. You typically take just one dose when you have a migraine. Zolmitriptan (Zomig) can cause side effects like dizziness and chest, neck, or jaw pain. This medication is a tablet that you swallow. It also comes as an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) and a nasal spray, which can be good options for people who have trouble swallowing pills during a migraine. Zolmitriptan (Zomig) is available by prescription only as a brand-name and generic medication; it's not found over the counter.

    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 Zomig vs. Ergotamine

    Indications for
    •Treatment of migraine
    Indications for
    •Treatment of migraines

  • Pros and Cons of Zomig vs. Ergotamine

    Pros and Const for Triptan
    Pros
    •One of the first-choice options for adults to treat moderate or severe migraine
    •Works within 2 hours after taking the dose
    •Has ODT and nasal spray forms, so it's a good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills during a migraine
    Cons
    •Not used for other types of headaches
    •Doesn't prevent migraines from happening
    •Can worsen your headaches if you take the medication for more than 9 days in a month
    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 Zomig vs. Ergotamine

    Common Side Effects for

    Tablets and orally disintegrating tablets

    •Nausea (up to 9%)
    •Dizziness (up to 8%)
    •Pins and needles feeling in the arms or legs (up to 7%)
    •Neck, throat, or jaw pain, tightness, or pressure (up to 7%)
    •Sleepiness (up to 6%)
    •Feeling warm or cold (up to 6%)
    •Body weakness (up to 5%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 5%)
    •Chest pain, tightness, pressure, or heaviness (up to 3%)

    Nasal spray

    •Unusual taste (up to 17%)
    •Dizziness (6%)
    •Pins and needles feeling in your arms or legs (5%)
    •Throat pain (4%)
    •Feeling warm (4%)
    •Dry mouth (3%)
    •Body weakness (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Numbness or tingling
    •Weakness

  • Warnings of Zomig vs. Ergotamine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Heart attack and chest pain (angina)
    •Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
    •Stroke or other brain injury
    •Blood vessel issues
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •High blood pressure
    •Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - for orally disintegrating tablet 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 Zomig vs. Ergotamine

    Learn more about Zolmitriptan
    Learn more about Ergomar

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