Triptans: pharmacology
Evidence-based neurology checklist on triptans: pharmacology: Mode of action These are selective serotonin 5-HT1B/1D agonists They cause intracranial vasoconstriction They inhibit the release of vasoactive neuropeptides They block the transmission of pain signals They do not interact with…
Mode of action
- These are selective serotonin 5-HT1B/1D agonists
- They cause intracranial vasoconstriction
- They inhibit the release of vasoactive neuropeptides
- They block the transmission of pain signals
- They do not interact with adrenergic and dopaminergic receptors: unlike ergots
- They are metabolised by the CYP 450 and monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) systems
References
- Marmura MJ. Use of dopamine antagonists in treatment of migraine. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2012; 14:27-35.
- Evers S, Afra J, Frese A, et al. EFNS guideline on the drug treatment of migraine-revised report of an EFNS task force. Eur J Neurol 2009; 16:968-981.
- Gelfand AA, Goadsby PJ. A neurologist's guide to acute migraine therapy in the emergency room. The Neurohospitalist 2012; 2:51-59.
- MacGregor EA, Steiner TJ, Davies PTG. British Association for the Study of Headaches (BASH). Guidelines for all healthcare professionals in the diagnosis and management of migraine, tension-type, cluster and medication-overuse headache. September 2010.
- Demaagd G. The pharmacological management of migraine, part 1: overview and abortive therapy. P T 2008; 33:404-416.
