Therapeutic advances in migraine.

Migraine is a common and debilitating disorder of uncertain pathogenesis. Recent research into the pathophysiology of migraine and serotonin receptors has revolutionized the approach to pharmacotherapy. New medications, such as sumatriptan, and new dosage forms of older medications, including dihydroergotamine, NSAIDs, and phenothiazines are available to treat acute attacks. New prophylactic approaches include the use of calcium-channel blockers, NSAIDs, fluoxetine, and valproate. The addition of several new agents for the acute and prophylactic therapy of migraine has improved the outlook for this disabling disorder.