Abortive Therapy for Migraine

Mechanism of Action of Abortive Migraine Medications

Abortive therapy focuses on stopping migraine attacks once they begin, using pharmacological agents that target underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.

Types of Abortive Medications

• Triptans: Serotonin receptor agonists that constrict cranial blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
• NSAIDs: Inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes to decrease prostaglandin-mediated pain and inflammation.
• Ergot Alkaloids: Vasoconstrictive agents acting on serotonin and dopamine receptors.
• CGRP Antagonists: Target the calcitonin gene-related peptide pathway to prevent migraine progression.

Mechanism of Action

These medications primarily function by inhibiting neurogenic inflammation, stabilizing vascular tone, and modulating nociceptive transmission within the trigeminovascular system.

Clinical Considerations

Individual response to treatment varies, requiring personalized therapeutic approaches. Patients with cardiovascular risks should be carefully evaluated before prescribing vasoconstrictive agents.