Vasoconstriction

medicine

Definition

Vasoconstriction

Vasoconstriction is the narrowing of blood vessels due to contraction of vascular smooth muscle, reducing blood flow.

Mechanism

In the cranial circulation, 5-HT1B receptor agonism causes meningeal vasoconstriction. This is a principal mechanism of triptans in acute migraine treatment.

Clinical Relevance

Cardiovascular implications

Because triptans induce vasoconstriction, they are contraindicated in patients with coronary artery disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or prior stroke. Agents that lack this property, such as gepants and ditans, are preferred in such populations.