Migraines Flashcards
What is the first and rate limiting step in serotonin synthesis?
Tryptophan is converted to 5-hydroxytryptophan by tryptophan hydroxylase
What is the 2nd reaction in serotonin synthesis?
5-hydroxytryptophan is converted to 5-hydroxytryptamine by L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase
What is the function of SERT?
It is a high affinity presynaptic serotonin transporter than terminates the action of serotonin via reuptake
5-HT is actively transported into storage vesicles by ___ (inhibited by ___).
VMAT-2, reserpine
T/F: One of serotonin’s functions is vasodilation.
False (vasoconstriction)
T/F: One of serotonin’s functions is pain.
true
When is the prodromal phase of migraine headaches?
24-48 hours prior to headache onset
Phase of migraine headache just prior to and/or concurrent with headache phase; last about an hour
Aural
Which of the following is NOT associated with migraine headaches? A. Slowed GI motility B. Hypertension and sweating C. Light and/or sound sensitivity D. Nausea and vomiting
b
What is the cortical spreading depression of leao?
Self-propagating wave of neuronal and glial depolarization that spreads across the cortex
What 3 things is the cortical spreading depression thought to cause?
Auras, activated afferent trigeminal nerve pathways (pain), and altered cerebral vascular tone and permeability
The cortical spreading depression of leao is thought to activate the trigeminovascular system —> release of substance P, __, ___ —> vasodilation & plasma extravasation of cranial blood vessels
The cortical spreading depression of leao is thought to activate the trigeminovascular system —> release of substance P, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), neurokinin A —> vasodilation & plasma extravasation of cranial blood vessels
Although the role of 5-HT in migraine pathogenesis is unknown, what 2 actions might it do?
Inhibit activation of trigeminal pain pathways and regulate cerebral vascular tone (vasoconstrictor)
What serotonin subtypes are considered the most important targets for the acute treatment of migraines?
5-HT1b, 5-HT1d
(Serotonin subtype) autoreceptor - activation produces selective vasoconstriction of cranial blood vessels
5-HT1b
Where is 5-HT1d found? What does its stimulation do?
Trigeminal afferents; reduces activity of these pain pathways
Stimulation of trigeminal afferents by 5-HT1d reduces the activity of these pain pathways and reduces the release of what substance?
CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide)
T/F: Dopamine agonists can relieve migraine symptoms and improve GI motility.
False (antagonists)
Which is more effective in treating migraines: smaller, repetitive doses or large single doses (both more effective when given early)
Large single doses
For mild migraine attacks, what general treatment is recommended?
Analgesic/combination preparations +/- antiemetic
For moderate migraine attacks, what general treatment is recommended?
PO migraine-specific drugs (triptans, ergots) + antiemetics
For severe/emergent attacks, what general treatment is recommended?
Non-oral forms of migraine-specific drugs + antiemetics
T/F: All migraine medications have the potential for causing rebound migraines if used too frequently.
True
What 3 drug types have the highest risk for rebound migraines?
Opioids, barbiturates, ASA/APAP/caffeine combos
What 2 drug types have lower and the lowest risk for rebound migraines (respectively)?
Triptans, NSAIDs (are lowest)
Risk for rebound migraines is minimized by using drugs for less than ___ and maximizing prophylactic therapies for patients with frequent migraines.
10 days per month
List the mild analgesic combinations that can be used for mild/infrequent migraines with or without aura
Aspirin, APAP, ibuprofen OR naproxen) +/- caffeine