Beta-adrenoceptor and epoprostenol (prostacyclin) responsiveness of lymphocytes in migraine patients.

Beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs are of prophylactic value in some patients with migraine. Beta-adrenoceptor responsiveness as measured by lymphocyte cAMP responsiveness to isoprenaline has, therefore, been compared in ten untreated classical migraine patients and ten matched non-migraine control subjects. Lymphocyte responsiveness to epoprostenol (prostacyclin, PGI2) was also compared. No difference in response to either agent was found between the two groups. A generalized abnormality of beta-adrenoceptor function does not appear to be present in classical migraine, but a defect localized to specific vascular regions cannot be excluded.