Naltrexone is a pure opioid receptor antagonist utilized principally for the treatment of alcohol and opioid dependence. As an opioid receptor antagonist, naltrexone competitively binds to mu-opioid receptor (MOR) and kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) sites with higher affinity than opioid agonists, thereby attenuating receptor activation. Should an individual administer an opioid agonist (e.g. morphine) while taking …
Zomig (Zolmitriptan) is a medication marketed by AstraZeneca and is FDA-approved as an abortive therapy for migraines and cluster headaches. Chemically, it’s classified as a triptan implying that it’s a tryptamine-derivative, and is manufactured in multiple formats including: tablet and nasal spray. Similar to other triptans, Zomig is considered efficacious when administered during a migraine …
Reglan (Metoclopramide) is a medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of gastroparesis or delayed stomach emptying. Gastroparesis often occurs as a result of conditions such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and diabetes, but is also sometimes experienced by patients following surgery (post-operative). Assuming an individual postpones treatment of ongoing gastroparesis, stomach acid can …
Topamax (Topiramate) is an anticonvulsant agent discovered in 1979 by Bruce Maryanoff and Joseph Gardocki while working for McNeil Pharmaceutical (a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson). When compared to other anticonvulsant agents, Topamax is regarded as unique in that it is pharmacologically classified as a sulfamate-substituted monosaccharide derivative, indicating that its chemical structure is similar …
Maxalt (Rizatriptan) is a pharmaceutical medication engineered by Merck & Co. for the treatment of migraine headaches (with or without aura). It received FDA approval in 1998 as an abortive antimigraine intervention and is chemically classified as a second-generation triptan (tryptamine-based). Analogous to other triptans, Rizatriptan remains ineffective as a migraine prophylactic, however, it is …
Relpax (Eletriptan) is a medication manufactured by Pfizer Inc. for the acute treatment of migraine headaches (with or without aura) in adults. It was initially approved by the FDA in 2002 and is regarded as a highly effective abortive agent, engineered to attenuate already-occurring migraine attacks. Chemically, Relpax is classified as a second generation triptan …
Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that was initially FDA approved in 1964 (under the brand name “Pamelor”) for the treatment of major depression. It is regarded as chemical successor to Amitriptyline based on the fact that Nortriptyline is Amitriptyline’s predominant psychoactive metabolite. Since Nortriptyline has been on the market since the mid-1960s, researchers are …