Self-induced myocardial infarction

Abstract

SummaryA case of acute myocardial infarction and peripheral vascular insufficiency following overdose with ergotamine is described. IntroductionDespite the prevalence of migraine and the widespread use of ergotamine preparations in its treatment, there are few reports of the effect of a massive overdose of these compounds. This case illustrates the consequences of an overdose of Migril, a compound containing 2 mg ergotamine tartrate B.P., 50 mg cyclizine hydrochloride B.P. and 100 mg caffeine hydrate B.P. per tablet.

Myocardial Ischemia Related to Ergot Alkaloids: A Case Report and Literature Review

“…Peripheral arterial insufficiency has been reported both as an isolated phenomenon and as a concomitant of heart disease with different routes of ergotamine administration. 4,14,[16][17][18][19] Several reports also describe recurrent attacks of angina following the administration of ergotamine, 3,4,5,7,8,11,12 as observed in our patient. The mechanism responsible for these repetitive ischemic attacks is not known.…”

“…1,2 Substernal chest pain and discomfort suggestive of myocardial ischemia have been described with ergot preparations [ Table 1]. [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13] Ergotamine taken orally in therapeutic doses has been associated with myocardial ischemia, 6,9,12 myocardial infarction, 4,13 cardiac arrest 4,14 and even sudden death 3 [ Table 1]. These complications have occurred with standard dosages more often than with overdosages.…”

Mycotoxins

“…185 Atrial fi brillation and precordial pain occurred in a 36year -old woman after the intramuscular injection of 0.5 mg ergotamine. 187 On the second day after admission, peripheral ischemia developed that eventually resolved. A case report documented the development of an acute myocardial infarction followed by ventricular fi brillation in a 29 -year -old man after the ingestion of 120 mg ergotamine and 6 g caffeine.…”