5-Hydroxytryptamine Mechanisms in Primary Headaches (Frontiers in Headache Research, Volume 2)

This volume examines the role of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, or serotonin) in the pathophysiology of migraine and other primary headaches and discusses the treatment of these headaches with drugs acting on 5-HT receptors. Noted experts present basic science information on the distribution, metabolism, turnover, and functions of 5-HT, the various 5-HT receptor subtypes, and the experimental and clinical pharmacology of drugs acting on 5-HT receptors and assess the clinical experience with these drugs in treatment of migraine, cluster headache, and tension-type headache. Special attention is given to new antimigraine drugs, particularly sumatriptan, a highly specific 5-HT 1-like receptor agonist that is currently being introduced to the world market. The book also outlines directions for future development of serotoninergic drugs for headaches.