Triptans are a class of medications used to treat the symptoms of migraine headaches. They work by narrowing blood vessels in the brain and blocking the release of certain chemicals in the body that can cause migraine pain. Triptans are the most commonly prescribed medications for migraine relief.
The first triptan, sumatriptan, was developed in the early 1990s and is still the most commonly prescribed triptan. Since then, several other triptans have become available, including rizatriptan, naratriptan, zolmitriptan, almotriptan, eletriptan, and frovatriptan.
Triptans are effective in relieving migraine symptoms for many people. They are typically taken as soon as possible after the onset of migraine symptoms. They should not be used more than twice a week, and they are not recommended for people with heart disease or high blood pressure.
Side effects of triptans may include nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness. They can also cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome, which is caused by too much serotonin in the body. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include confusion, agitation, and muscle twitching.
Triptans are generally safe and effective for migraine relief. People who suffer from migraines should talk to their doctor about whether triptans are right for them.
References
American Migraine Foundation. (2020). Triptans. Retrieved from https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/triptans/
Kulich, K., & Shukla, G. (2019). Triptans for Acute Treatment of Migraines: A Review. Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports, 19(2), 6. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-019-0933-3
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Migraine: Hope Through Research. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Hope-Through-Research/Migraine-Hope-Through-Research