Analgesic and Antineuropathic Drugs Acting Through Central Cholinergic Mechanisms
2011

Cholinergic Mechanisms in Pain Relief

publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Bartolini Alessandro, Cesare Mannelli, Lorenzo Di Ghelardini, Carla

Primary Institution: University of Florence, Department of Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology

Hypothesis

The role of muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors in analgesia and neuropathic pain relief is relatively unknown.

Conclusion

Acetyl-L-carnitine can increase acetylcholine synthesis and release, providing both analgesic and anti-neuropathic effects.

Supporting Evidence

  • Activation of M1 subtype muscarinic receptors induces analgesia.
  • Chronic stimulation of nicotinic receptors has neuronal protective effects.
  • Acetyl-L-carnitine increases acetylcholine synthesis and release.

Takeaway

This study talks about how certain drugs can help relieve pain by working with the brain's chemical messengers, especially acetylcholine.

Methodology

The review discusses various pharmacological strategies to enhance acetylcholine synthesis and release.

Limitations

The therapeutic use of direct muscarinic agonists is limited due to severe side effects.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.2174/157488911795933901

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