Pharm

Ergotism

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Ergotism

  • History
  1. Seen in epidemic form since the Middle Ages
  2. Implicated in alleged behavior of Salem witches
  • Causes
  1. Excessive Ergot alkaloid drug intake
    1. Ergotamine
    2. Ergonovine
    3. Methylergometrine (Methergine)
    4. Methysergide (Sansert)
    5. Bromocriptine (Parlodel)
  2. Ergot alkaloid used concurrently with potentiator
    1. Azithromycin
  3. Rye or wheat infected with fungus Claviceps purpurea
  • Symptoms
  1. Colic
  2. Diarrhea
  3. Paresthesias
  4. Pruritus
  5. Seizures
  6. Headache
  7. Drowsiness
  8. Nausea or Vomiting
  • Signs
  • Gangrene of poorly vascularized distal structures
  1. Tip of nose
  2. Ears
  3. Fingers
  4. Toes