Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors

Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NRIs) or noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors are a type of drug that act upon the central nervous system (CNS) to increase the amount of norepinephrine (also known as noradrenaline) in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake into neurons.

Mechanism of Action

NRIs work by blocking the transporter protein that normally moves norepinephrine back into neurons after it has been released into the synapse. This results in an increased concentration of norepinephrine in the synapse, allowing it to continue to act on receptors.

Uses

NRIs are commonly used in the treatment of conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety disorder. They can also be used to treat chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and certain cases of narcolepsy.

Side Effects

Common side effects of NRIs include insomnia, nausea, dry mouth, and increased heart rate. In rare cases, they can cause more serious side effects such as hypertension, heart disease, and seizures.

Examples

Examples of NRIs include atomoxetine, reboxetine, and viloxazine. These drugs are all classified as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NRI), meaning they primarily affect norepinephrine levels and have little effect on other neurotransmitters.

See Also

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
• Dopamine reuptake inhibitors