Indiplon

Indiplon is a nonbenzodiazepine, hypnotic sedative that was developed in the late 1990s by the pharmaceutical company Neurocrine Biosciences in collaboration with Pfizer. It is primarily used in the treatment of insomnia.

Pharmacology

Indiplon works by enhancing the action of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA inhibits the activity of the brain's arousal system, thereby promoting sleep. Indiplon binds to a specific subtype of the GABA receptor, known as the GABA-A receptor. This enhances the effects of GABA and helps to induce sleep.

Development and Approval

Indiplon was developed by Neurocrine Biosciences and Pfizer. The drug was submitted for approval to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States in 2002. However, the FDA requested additional data on the safety and efficacy of the drug, particularly in long-term use. As a result, the approval of indiplon was delayed. In 2007, Neurocrine Biosciences announced that it would continue the development of indiplon on its own, after Pfizer had decided to discontinue its involvement in the project.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of indiplon are similar to those of other hypnotic sedatives and include dizziness, nausea, and headache. More serious side effects can include memory loss, hallucinations, and abnormal behavior.

See Also

• Nonbenzodiazepine
• Insomnia
• Gamma-Aminobutyric acid
• Food and Drug Administration

Indiplon Resources
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