Which of the following is commonly used for acute treatment of a migraine attack?

Which of the following is commonly used for acute treatment of a migraine attack?

• A. Beta-blockers
• B. NSAIDs
• C. Triptans
• D. Antidepressants

Answer: (C)

Triptans are designed for acute, abortive treatment of a migraine attack because they specifically target the trigeminovascular system that drives migraine symptoms. They are 5-HT1B/1D receptor agonists; on these receptors they cause constriction of cranial blood vessels and curb the release of CGRP and other inflammatory neuropeptides from sensory nerve endings. This dual action quickly reduces headache pain and associated symptoms when taken at the onset of an attack. They’re widely used for moderate to severe acute episodes and are considered the standard choice for rapid relief. By contrast, beta-blockers and antidepressants are mainly used to prevent migraines, not to acutely stop an ongoing attack, and NSAIDs, while also active in acute treatment, are not the agent class most specifically associated with abortive therapy in the way triptans are.

Triptans are designed for acute, abortive treatment of a migraine attack because they specifically target the trigeminovascular system that drives migraine symptoms. They are 5-HT1B/1D receptor agonists; on these receptors they cause constriction of cranial blood vessels and curb the release of CGRP and other inflammatory neuropeptides from sensory nerve endings. This dual action quickly reduces headache pain and associated symptoms when taken at the onset of an attack. They’re widely used for moderate to severe acute episodes and are considered the standard choice for rapid relief. By contrast, beta-blockers and antidepressants are mainly used to prevent migraines, not to acutely stop an ongoing attack, and NSAIDs, while also active in acute treatment, are not the agent class most specifically associated with abortive therapy in the way triptans are.