Maladaptive activation of Nav1.9 channels by nitric oxide causes triptan-induced medication overuse headache

Abstract

The precise mechanisms that lead to medication-overuse headaches (MOH), which can occur with both over-the-counter and prescription pain-relief medicines, are still uncertain. In this study, authors show that the abnormal activation of dural nociceptor Nav1.9 channels by Nitric Oxide is responsible for triptan-induced MOH, causing hyperexcitability of dural nociceptors and headache.