Recent study established the better capability of a drug known telcagepant in treating migraines as compared to the widely-used migraine drug zolmitriptan (Zomig). The study conducted by drug maker Merck & Co has shown that new drug has fewer side effects as compared to traditional drug.

The study report said that Zolmitriptan and other triptans are effective but can cause a number of side effects, including dizziness, tingling and numbness of the skin, chest discomfort, and throat tightness. In addition, triptans can cause blood vessel narrowing and aren't recommended for patients with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and certain migraine subtypes.

Researchers said that Triptans work on serotonin receptors on the brain whereas the new drug telcagepant works by blocking other chemicals in the brain that are increased during a migraine attack. The chemical, Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) induces a migraine-like headache when injected into sufferers.

After analyzing data collected from a randomized trail involving 1,380 people with moderate or severe migraine, researchers concluded that telcagepant was as effective as zolmitriptan, the most commonly used triptan, and was associated with fewer adverse effects.