The safety of triptans in the treatment of patients with migraine

The introduction of the triptans (5-hydroxytryptophan [5-HT] 1B/1D agonists) in the past decade has brought migraine-specific pain relief to those suffering from migraine. These drugs activate the serotonin receptors 5-HT1B and 5-HT1D on cerebral vessels. Concerns about their safety, particularly in patients with vascular risk factors, have been raised because triptans also activate the 5-HT1B receptors on coronary arteries. Although triptans are contraindicated in patients with cardiac or cerebrovascular disease, they are safer than many other medications used to treat patients with migraine, including the nonspecific serotonin-agonist ergot preparations.