This is based on a review of data showing an increased risk of fibrosis (formation of excess connective tissue that can damage organs and body structures) and ergotism (symptoms of ergot poisoning, such as spasms and obstructed blood circulation) with these medicines. However, only a subset of ergolines are associated with fibrosis and evidence suggests that nicergoline does not carry the same fibrotic risk like other ergoline derivatives such as ergotamine.
This conclusion is based on an examination of data indicating that these medications can lead to an increased risk of fibrosis (the formation of abnormal connective tissue) and ergotism (symptoms of ergot poisoning, including spasms and impaired blood flow). Nevertheless, only a portion of ergolines are associated with this risk, and evidence suggests that nicergoline does not pose the same level of fibrotic risk as other ergoline derivatives like ergotamine.