"Ergotism= chronic ergot poisoning (St.Anthony's fire)
Due to ingestion of alkaloids produced by the Claviceps purpurea fungus that infects rye.
Ergot fungi refers to a group of fungi of the genus Clavicep.
From Old French 'argot'="cock's spur" - from the shape the fungus on the diseased grain.
Clinical usage:
1)Dihydroergotamine - orthostatic hypotension
2)Methylsergide - migraine prophyalxis
3)Bromocriptine - lactation suppression
4)Ergonovine - prevention& treatment of postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony.
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