Opioids: Difference between revisions
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'''Opioids''', broadly defined, are molecules that bind to the ligand-binding pocket of opioid receptors. These include morphine, endorphins, fentanyl and many other legal or illegal drugs. Sometimes, opioids are distinguished from opiates, drugs that are derived from opium by purification and sometimes modification. Opioids acting as agonists when bound to opioid receptors may be used to treat pain, but have other effects and side-effects. Opioids such as naloxone acting as antagonists, on the other hand, prevent agonists from binding and turn off the receptor. All opioid receptor agonists are addictive, and can lead to death by overdosing. | '''Opioids''', broadly defined, are molecules that bind to the ligand-binding pocket of [[Opioid Receptor|opioid receptors]]. These include morphine, endorphins, fentanyl and many other [[Pharmaceutical drugs|legal]] or illegal drugs. Sometimes, opioids are distinguished from opiates, drugs that are derived from opium by purification and sometimes modification. Opioids acting as agonists when bound to opioid receptors may be used to [[Treatments:Opioid drugs|treat pain]], but have other effects and side-effects. Opioids such as naloxone acting as antagonists, on the other hand, prevent agonists from binding and turn off the receptor. All opioid receptor agonists are addictive, and can lead to death by overdosing. | ||
== Chemistry == | == Chemistry == | ||
