Triptans is a word commonly used for a class of anti-migraine drugs that are selective 5-hydroxytryptamine/serotonin (5-HT) agonists. Migraine is a complex disease which affects about 15% of the population and can be highly disabling.
Triptans have advantages over ergotamine and dihydroergotamine, such as selective pharmacology, well established safety record and evidence-based  prescribing instructions. Triptans are therefore often preferred treatment in migraine.