MIGRAINE TREATMENT: THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW DRUG

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MIGRAINE TREATMENT: THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW DRUG

There is presently some excitement over the development of a new drug which it is claimed specifically mimics the neurotransmitter, Serotonin. It is claimed that migraine occurs because of low levels of Serotonin in the sufferer. Trials in Australia and other countries were discussed at a recent international headache meeting in Australia.

Preliminary trials of the drug known as Sumatriptan appear very promising whether the drug is injected or taken by mouth. It is claimed that up to 80% of those given the drug by a variety of methods gained relief of their headache. Sumatriptan is due for commercial release some time in 1990.

In the treatment of migraine there has been an increase of studies showing the efficacy of intravenous use of a moderately potent local anaesthetic, Xylocaine. In some casualty departments this has become the treatment of choice for acute migraine, rather than the automatic administration of narcotics such as Pethidine or Morphine.

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