Anorexigenic refers to substances, neurons, or physiological pathways that suppress appetite and promote a feeling of fullness or satiety. These signals are the biological 'brakes' on food intake. The primary anorexigenic neurons in the hypothalamus are those that produce pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) and cocaine-and-amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART). When activated, these neurons signal the body to stop eating and increase the metabolic rate.
Anorexigenic signals are stimulated by hormones such as leptin (released from fat cells), insulin (released from the pancreas), and GLP-1 (released from the gut). These hormones provide feedback to the hypothalamus that the body has sufficient energy. Many modern weight loss interventions, including the use of tirzepatide, work by enhancing these anorexigenic pathways or increasing the brain's sensitivity to them, helping to overcome the persistent hunger that often accompanies dieting.
The definitive guide by Russell Clark, FNP-C, APRN