Decreased platelet 3H-imipramine binding sites in classical migraine.

Patients with classical migraine investigated between attacks had significantly fewer platelet 3H-imipramine binding sites than control subjects and this finding was more marked in males than in females. There was no abnormality of binding characteristics of platelet 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors or of platelet alpha 2-adrenoceptors. Because the reduced 3H-imipramine binding capacity was found in classical migraineurs who were investigated between attacks, it may reflect a predisposition to migraine rather than being a consequence of attacks.