Pharmaceutical compositions containing dihydroergotamine (DHE) and methods in which DHE is administered to patients for treatment of migraine without side effects or adverse effects are disclosed. Methods for rapid treatment of migraine with DHE are disclosed comprising: dampening the peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and slightly delaying the peak such as to avoid activating the dopaminergic and adrenergic receptors, while achieving sufficient active binding to the serotonin receptors to provide relief from migraine symptoms within a timeframe that permits rapid resolution of migraine symptoms. Inhaler devices suitable for the methods are disclosed. Kits for practicing the methods of invention are disclosed.