Which drug class is commonly used to treat migraine headaches by acting on serotonin receptors?

Triptans are commonly used to treat migraine headaches primarily because they specifically act on serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT_1B and 5-HT_1D subtypes. When a migraine occurs, there is often an involvement of serotonin pathways in the brain, and triptans help alleviate headache symptoms by mimicking the action of serotonin. They cause vasoconstriction of intracranial blood vessels, which is helpful in reversing the dilation that contributes to migraine pain. Additionally, they help in inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides.

This targeted action on serotonin receptors makes triptans a first-line therapy for acute migraine treatment, providing relief for many patients. Other drug classes may be used in managing migraines, but they do not primarily act on serotonin receptors in the same way triptans do.