Brand Names: Neurontin, Gralise, Horizant, Fanatrex.

Definition: Gabapentin is a gabapentinoid medication primarily used to treat neuropathic pain and as an anticonvulsant for the treatment of partial seizures. While its structure is similar to the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), it does not bind to GABA receptors; instead, it works by affecting the way nerves send messages to the brain. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain following shingles) and restless legs syndrome.

Brand Names: Quviviq.

Definition: Daridorexant is a dual orexin receptor antagonist (DORA) used for the treatment of adults with insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep onset and/or sleep maintenance. It works by blocking the binding of wake-promoting neuropeptides called orexins to their receptors in the brain. Rather than inducing general sedation like older sleep medications, it specifically turns down the "wake" signals in the brain, helping patients fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer with a lower risk of next-day grogginess.

Brand Names: Lyrica, Alzain, Axalid, Lecaent.

Definition: Pregabalin is a gabapentinoid medication used to treat chronic pain conditions and certain neurological disorders. It works by binding to specific subunits of calcium channels in the central nervous system, which helps reduce the release of neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling and seizure activity. It is primarily prescribed for neuropathic pain (such as from diabetes or shingles), fibromyalgia, generalized anxiety disorder, and as an add-on treatment for epilepsy.