Acetaminophen / Dihydroergotamine
Acetaminophen/Dihydroergotamine is a combination medication used to treat acute migraine headaches. Acetaminophen provides pain relief while dihydroergotamine, an ergot derivative, constricts cranial blood vessels and acts on serotonin receptors to address the vascular component of migraines. This combination is typically prescribed when over-the-counter pain relievers alone are insufficient for migraine management.
A migraine treatment combining an analgesic with a vasoconstrictor to address both pain and vascular components of headaches.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1007706
- Generic
- Acetaminophen / Dihydroergotamine
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of acute migraine attacks, including migraine with or without aura, when standard analgesics are inadequate. May also be used for severe tension headaches in some formulations.
Acetaminophen inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the brain, reducing prostaglandin synthesis and lowering pain perception. Dihydroergotamine acts as a serotonin (5-HT1B/1D) receptor agonist, causing vasoconstriction of cranial blood vessels and inhibiting inflammatory neuropeptide release. Together, they address both the pain and vascular components of migraines.
Contraindicated in patients with cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, or pregnancy. Dihydroergotamine carries risk of ergotism (severe vasoconstriction) if overused. Avoid use with other vasoconstrictors, triptans, or CYP3A4 inhibitors. May cause nausea, dizziness, or tingling sensations. Use limited to short-term acute treatment rather than preventive therapy. Not recommended for patients with risk factors for cardiovascular events.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy