[The classification and mechanism of the hypnotics]

Nihon Rinsho. 1998 Feb;56(2):510-4.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

The various hypnotics are currently available. Today benzodiazepine (BZ) derivatives are most used, but non-benzodiazepines (non-BZ), are being used. BZs and non-BZs are classified four groups by means of pharmacokinetics, (1) ultra-rapidly elimination hypnotics, (2) rapidly elimination hypnotics, (3) relatively slow elimination hypnotics and (4) slow elimination hypnotics. BZs modulate gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic transmission, and specific receptors exist in the brain. GABA is the most abundant inhibitory neuro-transmitter in the central nervous system. BZs alter sleep by binding receptor-GABA receptor-chloride channel.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Anxiety Agents / classification*
  • Anti-Anxiety Agents / pharmacokinetics
  • Anti-Anxiety Agents / pharmacology
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Chloride Channels / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / classification*
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / pharmacokinetics
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / pharmacology
  • Receptors, GABA / metabolism
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / physiology

Substances

  • Anti-Anxiety Agents
  • Chloride Channels
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives
  • Receptors, GABA
  • Benzodiazepines
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid