What is an example of a neuromodulator?

From the Guidelines

Gabapentin is a notable example of a neuromodulator, as it has been shown to significantly improve cough quality of life in patients with unexplained chronic cough, according to a study published in Chest in 2016 1. This is evident from the fact that gabapentin, a centrally acting neuromodulator, was found to reduce cough frequency in patients with unexplained chronic cough, as reported in the study by Ryan et al, cited in the Chest guideline and expert panel report 1. Some key points about gabapentin as a neuromodulator include:

• It acts on the central nervous system to modulate neural activity
• It has been shown to improve cough quality of life in patients with unexplained chronic cough
• It can have adverse effects, mainly predictable central nervous system effects, which can be managed by modifying the dose, as noted in the study 1 Other neuromodulators, such as morphine, have also been assessed in the treatment of unexplained chronic cough, but gabapentin is a prominent example due to its significant improvement in cough quality of life, as reported in the Chest guideline and expert panel report 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

PrabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs is an acetylcholine release inhibitor and a neuromuscular blocking agent. An example of a neuromodulator is botulinum toxin, as it acts as an acetylcholine release inhibitor, which modulates neurotransmitter release 2.

From the Research

Definition and Examples of Neuromodulators

• A neuromodulator is a chemical substance that modifies or regulates the activity of neurons.
• Examples of neuromodulators include acetylcholine, which is mentioned in several studies as the neurotransmitter affected by botulinum toxin 3, 4, 5, 6.
• Botulinum toxin itself can be considered a neuromodulator, as it acts by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, thereby modifying the activity of neurons 3, 4, 5, 6.

Mechanism of Action

• The mechanism of action of botulinum toxin involves the cleavage of specific proteins involved in vesicle fusion, preventing the release of acetylcholine 4.
• This results in a reversible chemical denervation of the muscle fiber, leading to partial paralysis and atrophy 5.
• The effects of botulinum toxin are temporary, as the muscle is progressively reinnervated by nerve sproutings 5.

Clinical Indications

• Botulinum toxin has been used to treat various clinical indications, including dystonia, hemifacial spasm, spasticity, and cervical dystonia 3, 4, 7, 5.
• The use of botulinum toxin in these conditions has been shown to be safe and effective, with minimal side effects 3, 4, 7, 5.