Triptan-induced Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome: Two Case Reports with a Literature Review

Intern Med. 2016;55(23):3525-3528. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.55.7185. Epub 2016 Dec 1.

Abstract

We encountered two patients with sumatriptan-induced reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS). The present patients were taking sumatriptan for the first time because they had been tentatively diagnosed with a migraine. On reviewing the literature, we found nine other cases of triptan-induced RCVS, predominantly among women aged 30 to 40 years. RCVS has been precipitated by triptan at the first ever use, after daily use, and even with long-term use at a normal dose. Patients with acute onset of severe headache should be thoroughly evaluated, and triptan should be administered appropriately. If triptan-induced RCVS is suspected, vascular imaging should be repeated after several days.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Syndrome
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Tryptamines / adverse effects*
  • Vasoconstriction / drug effects
  • Vasoconstriction / physiology*
  • Vasospasm, Intracranial / chemically induced*
  • Vasospasm, Intracranial / diagnosis
  • Vasospasm, Intracranial / physiopathology

Substances

  • Tryptamines