Endogenous neurotransmitters (opioid peptides)
- Endogenous ligands for opioid receptors
- Endorphins, enkephalins + dynorphins
- Modulate pain, stress, reward + respiration
- Peptides are rapidly degraded
- Receptor selectivity differs by peptide
- Not pharmacokinetically equivalent to opioid drugs
Class at a glance
- Endogenous ligands for opioid receptors
Pharmacology
- Receptor selectivity differs by peptide
Clinical role
- Endorphins, enkephalins + dynorphins
- Modulate pain, stress, reward + respiration
Practical pearls
- Peptides are rapidly degraded
- Not pharmacokinetically equivalent to opioid drugs
Self-check
- Are endogenous opioid peptides pharmacokinetically equivalent to opioid drugs?
No. - What limits endogenous opioid-peptide duration?
Rapid degradation.
Drugs in this class (5)
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