Orexin receptor antagonist
Orexin Receptor Antagonist
Orexin receptor antagonists (pronunciation: o-REX-in re-SEP-tor an-TAG-o-nists) are a class of drugs that are used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. They work by blocking the action of orexin, a neurotransmitter that regulates arousal, wakefulness, and appetite.
Etymology
The term "orexin" comes from the Greek word "orexis", meaning appetite. This is because the orexin system was first identified for its role in regulating feeding behavior. The term "antagonist" comes from the Greek "antagonistes", meaning opponent or rival, referring to the drug's action of blocking or inhibiting the effects of orexin.
Mechanism of Action
Orexin receptor antagonists work by selectively blocking the action of orexin neurotransmitters at their receptors, known as Orexin receptors. There are two types of orexin receptors, Orexin receptor 1 (OX1R) and Orexin receptor 2 (OX2R). By inhibiting the action of orexin, these drugs reduce arousal and promote sleep.
Related Terms
- Orexin: A neurotransmitter that regulates arousal, wakefulness, and appetite.
- Insomnia: A sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
- Sleep disorders: A range of conditions that affect sleep quality, timing, and duration.
- Neurotransmitter: Chemicals that transmit signals from a neuron to a target cell across a synapse.
- Orexin receptor: A type of protein to which orexins bind, initiating a chain of responses.
Examples
Some examples of orexin receptor antagonists include Suvorexant and Lemborexant. These drugs are used to treat insomnia and are typically prescribed when other treatments have not been effective.
Side Effects
Like all drugs, orexin receptor antagonists can have side effects. These may include drowsiness, headache, dizziness, and abnormal dreams. It is important to discuss potential side effects with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
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