Endorphin
An endorphin is natural chemical which acts as a neurotransmitter, pain killer and sedative.
Endorphins are peptides - amino acid chains that are shorter than proteins - and are manufactured in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body.
Opioid antagonists - such as nalorphine, naltrexone and naloxone - are morphine-like substances which can be used to block the effect of endorphins in the central nervous system.
Some people believe that opioid antagonists can be used to reduce behaviours such as self injury, hyperactivity and ritualistic behaviour in individuals with autism.
Related Glossaries
About This Glossary
This glossary is designed to explain some of the jargon and gobbledygook used by some people when they talk about autism or research..
You may be able to find more information, including links to other parts of this website, by clicking on the title of an item.
If you know of any other items we should include in this section, please email info@informationautism.org.
Please note that we reserve the right not to include an item if we feel that it is not appropriate.
Disclaimer
The fact that an intervention is listed in this glossary does not necessarily mean that we agree with its use. Nor does it necessarily mean that there is any scientifically valid or reliable evidence behind it.