Definition

An orally available benzenoid that acts as an opioid peptide receptor agonist for the nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor (opioid receptor like -1; OPRL1; ORL-1; NOP; kappa-type 3 opioid receptor) and the classical opioid receptors, mu, delta and kappa, with potential anti-nociceptive activity. Upon oral administration, cebranopadol binds to NOP and the mu, delta and kappa opioid receptors, which enhances NOP- and opioid receptor-mediated signaling, interferes with the sensation of pain and results in an analgesic effect. NOP, a member of the opioid receptor family, and its endogenous ligand nociceptin play key roles in the regulation of various brain activities including pain, and some inflammatory and immune responses.