RECENT PROGRESS IN THE ELUCIDATION OF THE MECHANISM OF ACTION OF ERGOT COMPOUNDS USED IN MIGRAINE THERAPY 1

Abstract

Ergot alkaloids are the main standby in the treatment and prophylaxis of the migraine attack. Without exception, the ergot alkaloids and derivatives employed in this indication were discovered and developed by Sandoz. Not surprisingly, therefore, the action mechanism of these substances is constantly under investigation in our research laboratories. The results I am presenting are the fruit of our last few years' work. I was not directly involved in these researches, but I shall mention my colleagues by name in connection with each aspect discussed. I shall first deal with vascular effects of various ergot alkaloids, and shall go on to discuss the influence of ergot compounds on storage and release of biogenic amines. Lastly, I shall say a few words about a new compound chemically different from the regot alkaloids which shows similar actions in some animal models and has proved to be efficacious in prophylaxis of the migraine attack.