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Injection, dihydroergotamine mesylate, per 1 mg

HCPCS code

Injection, Dihydroergotamine Mesylate, Per 1 mg (J1110)

Name of the Procedure:
  • Common Name: Dihydroergotamine Injection
  • Medical Term: Injection, Dihydroergotamine Mesylate, per 1 mg
Summary:

This procedure involves the injection of dihydroergotamine mesylate, a medication primarily used to treat severe headache disorders like migraines. It is administered through an injection and helps alleviate headache symptoms by constricting blood vessels in the brain.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of dihydroergotamine mesylate injection is to treat acute migraine attacks and other severe headache disorders. The expected outcome is the rapid relief of headache symptoms, improvement in the patient's overall well-being, and the prevention of headache-related complications.

Indications:
  • Acute migraine attacks
  • Cluster headaches
  • Severe headache disorders unresponsive to other medications
Preparation:
  • Patients may be advised to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
  • Adjustments in current medications may be required, based on a healthcare provider’s evaluation.
  • Diagnostic tests, such as blood pressure checks or cardiac assessments, might be necessary to ensure patient suitability.
Procedure Description:
  1. Pre-Injection Preparation: The healthcare provider prepares the injection site by cleaning it with an antiseptic.
  2. Administration: Dihydroergotamine mesylate is administered via intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), or intravenous (IV) injection, typically into the arm or thigh.
  3. Observation: The patient may be observed for a short period post-injection to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions.

Tools and Equipment:

  • Syringe and needle
  • Dihydroergotamine mesylate medication
  • Antiseptic wipes

Anesthesia or Sedation:

  • Generally, no anesthesia or sedation is required.
Duration:

The procedure itself typically takes about 10-15 minutes, including preparation and administration.

Setting:
  • Hospital
  • Outpatient Clinic
  • Urgent Care Center
Personnel:
  • Healthcare Provider (Doctor or Nurse Practitioner)
  • Nurse
Risks and Complications:
  • Common Risks: Injection site pain, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.
  • Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, chest pain, or hypertension.

Management: Most side effects are managed with supportive care, and severe reactions would require emergency medical treatment.

Benefits:
  • Rapid relief from severe headache symptoms.
  • Improvement in quality of life and daily functioning.
  • Prevention of migraine-related complications.
Recovery:
  • Patients may be advised to rest for a short while post-injection.
  • Instructions on resuming normal activities will be provided by the healthcare provider.
  • Follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor progress or adjust treatment plans.
Alternatives:
  • Oral migraine medications
  • Other injectable treatments (e.g., sumatriptan)
  • Non-pharmacologic treatments (e.g., biofeedback, cognitive-behavioral therapy)

    Pros and Cons:

  • Dihydroergotamine Injection: Fast-acting but requires administration by a healthcare professional.
  • Oral Medications: Easier to take but may act slower.
  • Non-Pharmacologic Treatments: Fewer side effects but variable effectiveness.
Patient Experience:

During the procedure, patients might experience a mild discomfort at the injection site. After the injection, they may feel relief from headache symptoms within a short period. Pain management can be facilitated with over-the-counter analgesics if necessary. Most patients are able to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure with minimal restrictions.

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