GABA receptor agonist

A GABA receptor agonist is a drug that is an agonist for one or more of the GABA receptors, producing typically sedative effects, and may also cause other effects such as anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects.

There are three receptors of GABA. The GABAA and GABAA-ρ receptors are ion channels that are permeable to chloride ions which reduces neuronal excitability. The GABAB receptor belongs to the class of G protein-coupled receptors that inhibit adenylyl cyclase, therefore leading to decreased cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). The GABAA receptor mediates sedative and hypnotic effects and as well as anticonvulsant effects. The GABAB receptor mediates similar but differing effects.

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