Perlapine

Perlapine is a sedative and hypnotic drug of the methaqualone family. It is used in Europe for the treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders, and has also been used clinically to treat anxiety and tension states. Perlapine has sedative and anxiolytic effects similar to those produced by other drugs used in sleep disorders, such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepines. However, it has a unique mechanism of action, acting as an antagonist at the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, and also has anticholinergic properties.

Pharmacology

Perlapine acts as an antagonist at the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, and also has anticholinergic properties. This unique mechanism of action distinguishes it from other drugs used in the treatment of sleep disorders, such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepines, which act primarily by enhancing the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

Clinical Use

Perlapine is used in Europe for the treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders. It has also been used clinically to treat anxiety and tension states. The sedative and anxiolytic effects of perlapine are similar to those produced by other drugs used in sleep disorders, such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepines.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, perlapine can cause side effects. These may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and difficulty urinating. In rare cases, perlapine may cause serious side effects such as fast/irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, fainting, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations), and difficulty moving.

See Also

• Sedative
• Hypnotic
• Methaqualone
• Insomnia
• Anxiolytic
• Serotonin
• Anticholinergic
• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines
• Nonbenzodiazepines
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid

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