What is Migranal Nasal Spray (Dihydroergotamine) prescribed for?

This medication is used to treat migraine headache attacks. When taken, this medication helps to relieve headache pain and other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound. Prompt treatment allows you to get back to your daily routine sooner rather than later, and over time it may decrease your need for other pain medications.

Dihydroergotamine belongs to a class of drugs known as ergot alkaloids.  This medication may work by narrowing the blood vessels of the brain, and it may also block other pain pathways in the brain as well.

Listen to all the medical advice given to you by your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication. If they give you any leaflets or pamphlets it’s best to keep them aside for future notice.

This medication comes with individual nasal spray vials. Each vial contains enough medication to treat a single migraine attack.  Do not use more than 4 sprays for a singular attack. Before use, make sure to prime the pump by spraying 4 times into the air and away from the face.

Within the first sign of a migraine attack, spray this medication into a nostril. Use 1 spray for each nostril. Do not tilt your head back, sniff through your nose or blow your nose while spraying or after use.

Use another spray into each nostril 15 minutes after the first spray. After using this medication, you should lie down and relax in a quiet, darkened room. Remember the maximum number of sprays you can use for a single attack is 4 sprays, so 2 for each nostril. You should start feeling relief within 30 minutes of using this medication.

Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. Do not increase the medication or take it for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster and you run the risk of side effects.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Dihydroergotamine; or to other ergot alkaloids (such as ergotamine, methysergide, bromocriptine); or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform you doctor of you Medical history. Especially of;  heart disease (such as chest pain/angina, heart attack), stroke, high blood pressure, blood circulation disease (such as peripheral arterial disease, Raynaud's syndrome), a certain severe blood infection (sepsis), bowel disease (such as ischemic bowel syndrome), kidney disease, liver disease, headaches with unusual symptoms or certain types of headache (hemiplegic/basilar), recent blood vessel surgery, nasal problems (such as chronic congestion, nasal allergies).

Tell your doctor if you have the following risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, smoking/tobacco use, family history of heart disease.

If you are at high risk for heart disease, your doctor may want to check your heart before prescribing dihydroergotamine and give your first dose in the office.

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Sore nose/throat, stuffy/runny nose, changes in taste, dizziness, or nausea may occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

This medication may rarely cause a very serious lack of blood flow. Stop using dihydroergotamine and tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: slow/fast heartbeat, weakness in the legs, muscle pain in the arms/legs, tingling/numbness, feeling of coldness in the hands/feet, blue fingers/toes, severe stomach/abdominal pain.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: jaw/left arm pain, chest pain/pressure, sudden tiredness, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, vision changes, mental/mood changes (such as confusion).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your vet before stopping taking this medication.

What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your vet will be able to determine the best dosage for your pets treatment. Work with your vet closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

What happens if I miss a dose?

You should give the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your pets next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.