ATC Group: N05AH Diazepines, oxazepines and thiazepines

The mechanism of action of asenapine is not fully understood. However, based on its receptor pharmacology, it is proposed that the efficacy of asenapine is mediated through a combination of antagonist activity at D₂ and 5-HT_2A receptors. Actions at other receptors e.g. 5-HT_1A, 5-HT_1B, 5-HT_2C, 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, D₃, and a₂-adrenergic receptors, may also contribute to the clinical effects of asenapine.

Clozapine has been shown to be an antipsychotic agent that is different from classic antipsychotics. Clozapine has potent anti-alpha-adrenergic, anticholinergic, antihistaminic, and arousal-reaction-inhibiting effects. It has also been shown to possess antiserotoninergic properties.

Loxapine binds with noradrenergic, histaminergic, and cholinergic receptors, and its interaction with these systems may influence the spectrum of its pharmacological effects. Loxapine is indicated for the rapid control of mild-to-moderate agitation in adult patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Olanzapine is an antipsychotic, antimanic and mood stabilising agent that demonstrates a broad pharmacologic profile across a number of receptor systems.

Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic agent. Quetiapine and the active human plasma metabolite, norquetiapine interact with a broad range of neurotransmitter receptors.