Posted by SLS on July 8, 2004, at 8:13:52
In reply to Re: What exactly does Neurontin do????, posted by Shawn. T. on July 7, 2004, at 18:38:27
Hi Shawn.
> Neurontin binds to the alpha(2)delta-1 and alpha(2)delta-2 regulatory subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels; however, it does not bind with high affinity to alpha(2)delta-3 or alpha(2)delta-4 subunits. As a result, the functionality of different types of voltage-gated calcium channels is altered by the drug; the channels are typically inhibited. In neuron terminals, the influx of calcium ions though voltage-gated calcium channels is a step involved in the release of neurotransmitters; when the action potential reaches the terminal, the channels open as a result of the change in electrical potential. Neurontin can therefore reduce the release of several neurotransmitters as a result of its interaction with certain regulatory subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels. Other mechanisms of action have been proposed, but they are controversial and not yet well-supported in my opinion.
>
> Shawn
You are such a show off! Delta this and alpha that... Gosh, you know a lot!Thank you for your contributions - as always. And thanks for maintaining your website:
www.neurotransmitter.netAre the actions of Neurontin on these CA2+ channels regional? Does it accumulate more, for instance, in the amygdala, left temporal lobe, or left prefrontal cortex? Do you think it has any direct effect on GABA synthesis or release?
Neurontin is a very interesting drug. In my opinion, some overestimate its utility while others underestimate its utility. I don't think it makes for a good mood stabilizer as monotherapy for bipolar disorder I or rapid cycling bipolar II. I think it can help for social anxiety/phobia and perhaps as an augmentor to lamotrigine in treating bipolar II. Although it had some weird effects on me, I did experience some unequivocal antidepressant effects transiently.
What do you feel that Neurontin is effective for in treating?
Thanks.
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:363684
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040704/msgs/363967.html