Proceedings of the Western Pharmacology Society
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Proc. West. Pharmacol. Soc. · Jan 2002
Review Historical ArticleAn introduction to migraine: from ancient treatment to functional pharmacology and antimigraine therapy.
Migraine treatment has evolved from the realms of the supernatural into the scientific arena, but it seems still controversial whether migraine is primarily a vascular or a neurological dysfunction. Irrespective of this controversy, the levels of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT), a vasoconstrictor and a central neurotransmitter, seem to decrease during migraine (with associated carotid vasodilatation) whereas an i.v. infusion of 5-HT can abort migraine. In fact, 5-HT as well as ergotamine, dihydroergotamine and other antimigraine agents invariably produce vasoconstriction in the external carotid circulation. ⋯ Nevertheless, PNU-142633 proved to be ineffective in the acute treatment of migraine, whilst LY344864 did show some efficacy when used in doses which interact with 5-HT1B receptors. Finally, although the triptans are effective antimigraine agents producing selective cranial vasoconstriction, efforts are being made to develop other effective antimigraine alternatives acting via the direct blockade of vasodilator mechanisms (e.g. antagonists at CGRP receptors, antagonists at 5-HT7 receptors, inhibitors of nitric oxide biosynthesis, etc). These alternatives will hopefully lead to fewer side-effects.
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Proc. West. Pharmacol. Soc. · Jan 2002
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialOpen trial study of a combined antidepressant (amitryptiline, perphenazine, diazepam) versus fluoxetine or imipramine in ambulatory depressed patients.
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Proc. West. Pharmacol. Soc. · Jan 2002
Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical TrialEfficacy and safety of diclofenac-cholestyramine and celecoxib in osteoarthritis.