The brain produces anti-opioid peptides that naturally counterbalance opioid effects, and these may drive the development of opioid tolerance.
Built-in counter-systemAnti-opioid peptides like NPFF naturally oppose opioid effects and may explain why tolerance develops
What the researchers found
The review synthesizes opioid peptide pharmacology including the novel concept of anti-opioid peptides that counterbalance opioid effects and may drive tolerance.
Why it matters
Understanding both opioid and anti-opioid systems is crucial for developing better pain treatments. Anti-opioid peptides may explain why opioid drugs become less effective over time (tolerance).
How the study worked
Narrative review of published literature on opioid and anti-opioid peptide pharmacology, receptor characterization, and physiological roles.
What this study cannot tell us
Narrative review from 1995. Some concepts have been refined or revised since publication. The epsilon receptor's existence remains debated.
How to read the evidence
Moderate — comprehensive review synthesizing opioid and anti-opioid pharmacology as of 1995.
When this study was published
Published in 1995 (31 years ago). Anti-opioid systems are now recognized as important contributors to tolerance and pain modulation.
The bigger picture
Understanding anti-opioid systems could transform pain treatment. If tolerance is driven by anti-opioid peptides, blocking them could maintain opioid drug effectiveness without dose escalation.
Questions still open
- Could anti-opioid peptide blockers prevent opioid tolerance?
- Are anti-opioid systems overactive in chronic pain patients?
Common questions
What are anti-opioid peptides?
Could blocking anti-opioids prevent tolerance?
Read the original research
Opioid and anti-opioid peptides.
Fundamental & clinical pharmacology, 9(5), 409-33
Citation
Cesselin, F. (1995). Opioid and anti-opioid peptides.. Fundamental & clinical pharmacology, 9(5), 409-33.