MK-5757

MK-5757 is a small molecule neuropsychotherapeutic drug developed by Merck & Co for the treatment of psychiatric disorders, specifically targeting cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia. Its primary mechanism of action is as an antagonist of the opioid receptor-like 1 (ORL1) receptor, also known as the nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor. Antagonism at this central nervous system target has been investigated to address cognitive deficits that persist in patients with schizophrenia despite stable antipsychotic treatment. Clinical development reached phase II before being discontinued for schizophrenia[1][2][5]. The compound has a molecular formula of C25H35N3O3 and was administered orally in clinical studies[3][4].