Alpha-2 agonist

Alpha-2 agonist is a type of pharmacological agent that acts on the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor. These receptors are part of the adrenergic receptor family, which are G protein-coupled receptors involved in various physiological processes.

Mechanism of Action

Alpha-2 agonists work by stimulating the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. This stimulation inhibits the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in the sympathetic nervous system. By inhibiting norepinephrine release, alpha-2 agonists can decrease sympathetic activity and produce various physiological effects.

Uses

Alpha-2 agonists are used in the treatment of several medical conditions. They are commonly used in anesthesia to induce sedation and analgesia. They are also used in the management of hypertension, as they can decrease blood pressure by reducing sympathetic activity. In addition, alpha-2 agonists are used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and certain types of chronic pain.

Examples

Examples of alpha-2 agonists include clonidine, dexmedetomidine, and tizanidine. Clonidine is often used in the treatment of hypertension and ADHD, while dexmedetomidine is commonly used in anesthesia. Tizanidine is used primarily for the treatment of muscle spasticity.

Side Effects

Like all medications, alpha-2 agonists can cause side effects. Common side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, and low blood pressure. In some cases, alpha-2 agonists can also cause rebound hypertension, a condition in which blood pressure increases upon discontinuation of the medication.

See Also

• Adrenergic receptor
• Sympathetic nervous system
• Norepinephrine
• Hypertension
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• Pain management