Belladonna Alkaloids / Caffeine / Ergotamine / Phenobarbital
This combination medication contains four active ingredients used together to treat vascular headaches, particularly migraines. The ingredients work through multiple mechanisms - ergotamine causes vasoconstriction of cranial blood vessels, belladonna alkaloids provide smooth muscle relaxation and reduce secretions, caffeine enhances analgesic effects, and phenobarbital offers sedative and anxiolytic properties. This medication is typically prescribed when simpler treatments have not been effective.
A multi-ingredient medication for treating migraine and vascular headaches through combined vasoconstrictive, anticholinergic, stimulant, and sedative effects.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1008619
- Generic
- Belladonna Alkaloids / Caffeine / Ergotamine / Phenobarbital
- 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.
Primarily used for the acute treatment of vascular headaches, including migraine attacks and cluster headaches. May also be used for other headache types when standard analgesics are insufficient.
Ergotamine constricts cranial arteries to reverse the vasodilation associated with migraines. Belladonna alkaloids (atropine, scopolamine, hyoscyamine) provide anticholinergic effects and smooth muscle relaxation. Caffeine improves absorption and enhances analgesic effects. Phenobarbital provides CNS depression, sedation, and anxiety reduction.
This medication has significant drug interactions and contraindications, particularly with cardiovascular conditions, pregnancy, and other medications. Due to the barbiturate component, there is risk of dependence with prolonged use. Should not be used for prophylaxis or in patients with peripheral vascular disease, coronary heart disease, or uncontrolled hypertension. Side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and nausea.
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 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy