Enkephalinase inhibitor

Enkephalinase inhibitor is a type of drug that inhibits the action of the enzyme enkephalinase. Enkephalinase is responsible for the breakdown of enkephalins, which are neuropeptides that play a key role in the body's pain response. By inhibiting enkephalinase, these drugs increase the levels of enkephalins in the body, thereby reducing pain.

Mechanism of Action

Enkephalinase inhibitors work by binding to the active site of the enkephalinase enzyme, preventing it from breaking down enkephalins. This results in increased levels of enkephalins in the body, which can bind to opioid receptors and reduce the perception of pain.

Uses

Enkephalinase inhibitors are used in the treatment of various types of pain, including chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and cancer pain. They may also be used in the treatment of depression and anxiety, as enkephalins are involved in the regulation of mood.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, enkephalinase inhibitors can have side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and drowsiness. In rare cases, they may cause respiratory depression, a serious condition in which breathing becomes dangerously slow.

Examples

Examples of enkephalinase inhibitors include racecadotril, which is used in the treatment of diarrhea, and D-phenylalanine, which is used as a nutritional supplement.

See Also

• Enkephalin
• Opioid receptor
• Pain management