학술논문
Effects of L-5HTP With and Without Carbidopa on Plasma β-Endorphin and Pain Perception: Possible Implications in Migraine Prophylaxis
Document Type
Article
Author
Source
Cephalalgia; September 1986, Vol. 6 Issue: 3 p175-179, 5p
Subject
Language
ISSN
03331024; 14682982
Abstract
L-Tryptophan (L-TP) has been used in migraine and other pain conditions. The mechanism underlying the analgesic effect is still partly undefined. In this study the effects of subchronic administration of L-5-hydroxytryptophan (L-5HTP) (with and without carbidopa) on plasma β-endorphin (b-EP) levels and subjective pain threshold and tolerance were investigated in seven healthy volunteers. To measure also an objective indicator of pain, the nociceptive flexion reflex threshold was studied. L-5HTP treatment with and without carbidopa administration increased b-EP levels significantly (p< 0.05). L-5HTP plus carbidopa induced an increase in b-EP significantly (p< 0.05) greater than that induced by L-5HTP alone. Neither the subjective pain threshold and tolerance nor the RIII threshold was modified by either treatment. Our data seem to point to the existence of a complex linkage between plasma opioid levels and pain perception.