[Pharmacological basis for the therapeutic use of ergot alkaloids]

The main mechanisms of action of ergot alkaloids are discussed. Their clinical use (migraine, uterine haemorrhage, orthostatic hypotension, senile cerebral insufficiency, hyperprolactinaemia or Parkinson's disease) and their adverse effects are explained by an affinity for three kinds of central and peripheral receptors: alpha adrenergic, serotoninergic or dopaminergic receptors.