Migraine | Pharmacology Assignment

Running head: HEALTHCARE
Pharmacology assignment
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

1HEALTHCARE
Abstract
Introduction- Migraine refers to a neurological condition that is characterized by several
symptoms such as, debilitating and intense headache, vomiting, nausea, difficulty in speaking,
tingling and numbness, and sensitivity to sound and light.
Summary- Migraine has been found to affect individuals of all age groups. Sumatriptan is one
common medication that is administered for the management of migraine. Sumatriptan acts in
the form of an agonist of 5-HT1B and 5-HT1D. These agonistic actions result in constriction of
blood vessels located in the brain; thereby inhibiting the synthesis of pro-inflammatory
neuropeptides.
The drug has also found to decrease the flow of carotid arterial blood. Nonetheless, it increases
velocity of blood flow in the middle cerebral artery and the internal carotid artery. It is generally
administered in subcutaneous, oral, intranasal or rectal dosage, and sold under Imitrex brand
name. However, adverse effects that are associated with the administration of this include
arrhythmia, heart attack, stroke and sulfhemoglobinemia. Some lifestyle changes that decrease
frequency of migraine are consumption of healthy foods and drinks, physical exercise, reduction
of stress, and getting sufficient sleep.
Target population- The target population comprises of adults, living in Australia, who suffer
from migraine. Selection of the target population can be accredited to the fact that dissemination
of information on the mechanism of action of the drug, in addition to its precautions and side
effects will not only increase their health literacy, but also help in effective management of
migraine.

2HEALTHCARE
Conclusion- To conclude, that sumatriptan should be administered in accurate dosage for
migraine management.
Keywords: migraine, triptan, sumatriptan, management

3HEALTHCARE
Table of Contents
Homeostasis.....................................................................................................................................4
Pathophysiology..............................................................................................................................4
Pharmacology..................................................................................................................................6
Drug name...................................................................................................................................6
Pharmacodynamics......................................................................................................................6
Pharmacokinetics.........................................................................................................................7
Route of Administration..............................................................................................................7
Indications, contraindications, precautions and side effects........................................................7
Lifestyle changes.............................................................................................................................8
Implications.....................................................................................................................................9
Conclusion.......................................................................................................................................9
References......................................................................................................................................10