Library · Brain & nerves · Research compound for sleep-wake cycle regulation and metabolic control; its antagonists are used for insomnia.
Orexin-A
Hypocretin-1, HCRT1, OX-A
Also known as hypocretin-1, this hypothalamic neuropeptide, discovered in 1998, governs wakefulness, appetite, and energy balance; its loss underlies narcolepsy. It is not itself an approved drug, but its receptor blockers are approved for insomnia.
Research score 70/100. Reference only, not a dose.
- Energy Boost
- Sleep Improvement
- Cognitive Enhancement
- Focus Enhancement
- Appetite Regulation
- US status
- Research Chemical
- Approval
- Not FDA approved as a drug; several dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs) are FDA-approved for insomnia.
- Evidence
- Animal + In Vitro Studies
- Research score
- 70 / 100
- Indication
- Research Only - No Medical Indication
- Origin
- USA
- Source category
- Brain & Nervous System
- Status group
- Research chemical
Mechanism
Acts on OX1R and OX2R receptors, mainly via Gq signaling that raises calcium and neuronal excitability; hypothalamic orexin neurons project to arousal centers, coordinating norepinephrine, histamine, and serotonin systems, and also link to feeding circuits.
Safety file
The natural peptide appears safe in research; its antagonist drugs can cause next-day drowsiness, reduced alertness, mood worsening, and complex sleep behaviors.
- Headache
- Insomnia if taken late
- Anxiety at high doses
- Increased heart rate. (Note: Side effects for therapeutic antagonists may include next-morning drowsiness, impaired alertness, worsening of depression/suicidal thoughts, complex sleep behaviors.)