Beta-adrenoceptor Blockade and Migraine

Except for propranolol, no other Beta-blocker has been studied thoroughly in the prophylaxis of migraine. Of those studied, propranolol, atenolol and timolol were shown to be useful in double-blind clinical trials. The mode, or even the site of action of these drugs in unknown. Possible mechanisms of action are peripheral vascular effects, a central action, 5-HT antagonism, an anxiolytic effect and a multifactorial action. The only common property of the successful drugs is lack of partial agonist activity and their profiles do not fully support any of the above hypotheses. Trials of drugs in the prophylaxis of migraine have in general been unsatisfactory due to the difficulty in controlling many variables. Beta-blockers with differing properties offer an opportunity to define the properties necessary for anti-migraine activity and perhaps shed light on the pathogenesis of migraine.