Caffeine-Ergotamine Information

What's inside Caffeine-Ergotamine

Caffeine-Ergotamine Chemical Information

caffeine - A naturally occurring xanthine derivative with central nervous system (CNS) stimulating activity. Due to the structural similarity to adenosine, caffeine binds to and blocks adenosine receptors, thereby preventing the inhibitory effects of adenosine on nerve cells. This leads to stimulation of medullary, vagal, vasomotor, and respiratory centers in the brain; and the release of epinephrine. Physiologic responses can include bradycardia, tachycardia, vasoconstriction, CNS excitablility, increased respiratory rate, increased blood pressure, increased blood flow to muscles, decreased blood flow to skin and inner organs, and release of glucose by the liver. Due to the interaction between adenosine A2A and dopamine D2 receptors, caffeine can also indirectly increase the levels of dopamine in the brain.

ergotamine tartrate - The tartrate salt form of ergotamine, an ergot alkaloid and adrenergic alpha agonist with vasoconstrictor activity. Ergotamine tartrate selectively binds to alpha-adrenergic receptors thereby stimulating vascular smooth muscle and causing vasoconstriction in both arteries and veins. Ergotamine tartrate also blocks serotonin 5-HT1D receptors, thereby also causing vasoconstriction in cerebral blood vessels. Constriction of cerebral blood vessels caused by this agent may reduce the blood flow and pressure in cerebral arteries and may relieve the pain of vascular headaches.