The use of sumatriptan in the treatment of migraine.

Sumatriptan is a selective agonist of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors, recommended for the acute treatment of migraine. The 5-HT1 receptor subtype is found in the cranial vasculature of many species including humans, and causes vasoconstriction of these vessels. Sumatriptan as a highly potent 5-HT1 agonist selectively constricts large intracranial blood vessels and also blocks neurogenic inflammation. Those treating patients with severe or inconveniently timed attacks will find sumatriptan the drug of choice.