Narcotic Agonist-Antagonist: A Brief Historical Review with Clinical Application

Abstract

Centrally acting analgesic drugs have been the treatment of choice for moderate to severe pain for many years due to their implied superior efficacy. Among the serious drawbacks of these drugs, however, has been the substantial potential for development of tolerance and physical dependence. Additional side—effects such as ataxia, sedation, mood modifications, and other unpleasant responses have encouraged research efforts in other areas. The narcotic agonist-antagonist category offers an interesting contrast to the “pure agonist” drug. A review of the mechanisms of action of centrally active narcotics and their differences is the purpose of this paper.

Keywords::

• Agonist
• Antagonist
• Opiate Receptor Site
• Endorphins
• Nociceptors