Allopregnanolone
neurosteroid
What it isEndogenous neurosteroid and a powerful positive allosteric modulator of GABA-A.
Why it mattersIts postpartum fall is the leading explanation for postpartum depression; brexanolone replaces it.
What it changesIt acts at extrasynaptic GABA-A receptors that benzodiazepines do not reach, which is why the two classes behave differently.
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskEndogenous or dietary; no boxed warning applies
Classes and tags
Open Allopregnanolone in the interactive console ↗
Self-check
- Which drug replaces allopregnanolone?
Brexanolone. - Which GABA-A receptors distinguish allopregnanolone from benzodiazepines?
Extrasynaptic receptors benzodiazepines do not reach.