Migraine drugs

Question 1

MOA: activation of 5-HT1d/1b receptors on trigeminal nerve endings and cerebral/meningeal vessels
-also cause vasoconstriction
Adverse: dizziness, muscle weakness
Caution: not for use in coronary disease or angina

Answer 1

Sumatriptan (Imitrex)

• shorter duration of action than the migraine itself

Question 2

often given with caffeine to increase absorption
MOA: partial agonist at alpha receptors and dopamine receptors
-causes long-lasting vasoconstriction
-only effective at the start of attack (prodrome)
-not for use in pregnancy

Answer 2

ergotamine

Question 3

prevention of migraine

Answer 3

beta-blockers