The effect of sumatriptan on cephalic arteries: A 3T MR-angiography study in healthy volunteers

Abstract

Aim To explore a possible differential effect of sumatriptan on extracerebral versus cerebral arteries, we examined the superficial temporal (STA), middle meningeal (MMA), extracranial internal carotid (ICAextra), intracranial internal carotid (ICAintra), middle cerebral (MCA) and basilar arteries (BA). Methods The arterial circumferences were recorded blindly using high-resolution magnetic resonance angiography before and after subcutaneous sumatriptan injection (6 mg) in 18 healthy volunteers. Results We found significant constrictions of MMA (16.5%), STA (16.4%) and ICAextra (15.2%) ( p ≤ 0.001). Smaller, but statistically significant, constrictions were seen in MCA (5.5%) and BA (2.1%) ( p ≤ 0.012). ICAintra change 1.8% was not significant ( p = 0.179). The constriction of cerebral arteries was significantly smaller than the constriction of extracerebral arteries ( p < 0.000001). Conclusion Sumatriptan constricts extracerebral arteries more than cerebral arteries. We suggest that sumatriptan may exert its anti-migraine action outside of the blood–brain barrier.

Levcromakalim, an Adenosine Triphosphate‐Sensitive Potassium Channel Opener, Dilates Extracerebral but not Cerebral Arteries

“…21,22 The acquired MRA data were saved in DICOM format and transferred to separate workstation and analyzed by LKEB-MRA vessel wall analysis software program. 21,22 The acquired MRA data were saved in DICOM format and transferred to separate workstation and analyzed by LKEB-MRA vessel wall analysis software program.…”

Wiping Out CGRP: Potential Cardiovascular Risks

“…Similar discussions are ongoing for the triptans and gepants. There is no evidence that triptans may enter the human brain in sufficient quantities to exert central pharmacological actions [25,26] and binding of telcagepant within the brain could only be demonstrated after administration of supratherapeutic doses [27]. Thus, structures that are located outside the BBB appear to be more likely therapeutic targets for the CGRP antibodies.…”

Superficial Artery Aneurysms Underlying Nummular Headache – 2 Cases and Proposed Diagnostic Work‐Up

“…12 Arguably, triptans producing symptomatic relief in these patients suggests a key role of the aneurysmatic dilation in the genesis of NH in these patients, or at least the involvement of vascular structures. Triptans are 5-HT1B/1D receptor agonists and produce vasoconstriction of the extracranial vessels (STA among them) in non-migrainous subjects, while relatively sparing the intracranial vessels.…”