The role of serotonin receptors in migraine headaches

This review provides information on the role of serotonin and its receptors in the pathogenesis of primary headaches and, particularly, migraine headaches. We summarized the data on the distinctive distribution of different 5-HT receptors in the trigemino-vascular system and their involvement in the regulation of cerebral vascular tone, as well as in the modulation of pain transmission in peripheral and central structures of the trigeminal complex. In addition, we discussed the pharmacodynamics of several serotonergic drugs used in the treatment of migraine.