The effect of zolmitriptan on cardiac autonomic modulation in patients with migraine: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study

Background: Triptans, which activate 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)-1B/1D receptors in cerebral arteries, are very effective in aborting attacks of migraine. Although activation of 5-HT-1B/1D receptors diminishes the secretion of noradrenaline from cardiac sympathetic nerves, some studies report that they may cause chest discomfort, myocardial infarction and arrhythmias due to coronary vasospasm. The effect of zolmitriptan on cardiac autonomic modulation has not been evaluated in migraineurs. Subjects and Methods: Ten patients with migraine (nine women, mean age 33 +/- 4 years) were crossover randomized to 2.5 mg zolmitriptan or identical placebo at least 5 days apart. Both time domain parameters (the mean R-R interval, the standard deviation of RR interval [SDNN], and the root mean square of successive R-R interval differences) and frequency domain parameters (low frequency [LF], high frequency [HF], and LF/HF ratio) of heart rate variability (HRV) were obtained during supine position, controlled respiration and handgrip exercise before and 2 h after zolmitriptan or placebo administration. Results: Baseline HRV parameters were similar for each occasion. Single dose zolmitriptan administration did not affect both time and frequency domain HRV parameters compared with the placebo. Conclusions: A single dose, 2.5 mg oral zolmitriptan administration did not change sympathetic and parasympathetic reactivity and sympathovagal balance in migraineurs.