methysergide

Methysergide is a semisynthetic ergot alkaloid and lysergamide used primarily for the prophylaxis of migraine and cluster headaches. It is not effective for acute attacks but is taken daily to prevent headache episodes. Methysergide acts as a mixed serotonin receptor modulator—antagonist at some serotonin (5-HT2) receptor and partial agonist or agonist at others (notably 5-HT1 receptor). Its mechanism involves blocking the effects of serotonin in blood vessels and gastrointestinal smooth muscle, leading to vasoconstriction, which may reduce headache frequency and severity. Methysergide is a prodrug that converts to methylergometrine in vivo. Due to risks such as retroperitoneal fibrosis, cardiac valvulopathy, and other fibrotic complications with long-term use, it has been withdrawn from markets like the United States and Canada and reserved only for severe cases unresponsive to other treatments[1][2][5][7].

Brand names

DeserilSansert

Other names

methysergide maleate