A-412,997 is a drug which acts as a

dopamine agonist A dopamine agonist is a compound that activates dopamine receptors. There are two families of dopamine receptors, D1-like and D2-like. They are all G protein-coupled receptors. D1- and D5-receptors belong to the D1-like family and the D2-like ...

that is used in scientific research. It is the first drug developed that is a highly selective agonist for the D₄ subtype, with significantly improved selectivity over older D₄-preferring compounds such as PD-168,077 and CP-226,269. In animal tests it improved cognitive performance in rats to a similar extent as

methylphenidate Methylphenidate, sold under the brand names Ritalin ( ) and Concerta ( ) among others, is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It may be taken Oral adm ...

, but without producing place preference or other signs of abuse liability. Also unlike other dopamine agonists, selective D₄ agonists do not cause side effects such as

sedation Sedation is the reduction of irritability or agitation by administration of sedative drugs, generally to facilitate a medical procedure or diagnostic procedure. Examples of drugs which can be used for sedation include isoflurane, diethyl ether, ...

and

nausea Nausea is a diffuse sensation of unease and discomfort, sometimes perceived as an urge to vomit. It can be a debilitating symptom if prolonged and has been described as placing discomfort on the chest, abdomen, or back of the throat. Over 30 d ...

, and so might have advantages over older dopamine agonist drugs.

References

Dopamine agonists Acetanilides Piperidines 2-Pyridyl compounds {{nervous-system-drug-stub