CX-546

CX-546 is a drug that belongs to the ampakine class. It was developed by Cortex Pharmaceuticals as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Overview[edit | edit source]

CX-546 is an ampakine compound, a type of drug that enhances glutamate signaling in the brain. Glutamate is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system, and ampakines are thought to enhance cognitive function by facilitating glutamate signaling.

Development and Clinical Trials[edit | edit source]

CX-546 was developed by Cortex Pharmaceuticals, a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development of drugs for neurological and psychiatric disorders. The drug was initially developed as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline.

In preclinical studies, CX-546 was found to enhance memory and cognitive function in animal models of Alzheimer's disease. However, in clinical trials, the drug failed to show significant benefits over placebo in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.

Following these results, Cortex Pharmaceuticals shifted the focus of CX-546 development towards other neurological and psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia and ADHD. However, as of now, the drug has not been approved for any indication.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

CX-546 works by modulating the activity of AMPA receptors, a type of glutamate receptor. By enhancing the activity of these receptors, CX-546 is thought to facilitate glutamate signaling and thereby enhance cognitive function.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

As with any drug, CX-546 has the potential to cause side effects. In clinical trials, the most commonly reported side effects were headache, dizziness, and nausea. However, the drug was generally well tolerated, and most side effects were mild to moderate in severity.