Ergotism is caused by the toxic alkaloid, ergotamine [Chem. Reg. #113-15-3], which is produced by the Claviceps purpurea fungus, which grows on rye and to a lesser extent on other cereal grain. Substitution on the amide nitrogen of the Lysergamide produces a variety of toxins and drugs. LSD, N, N-diethyl-D-lysergamide, is the best known derivative. Ergotism is a form of food poisoning and may...