Adenosine Receptor Antagonists

Sleep Pressure

Every second you are awake, neurons burn ATP, leaving behind a byproduct: Adenosine. As adenosine accumulates, it binds to receptors, creating "Sleep Pressure." Sleep is the only process that "cleans" this adenosine via the glymphatic system.

The Antagonist Trap

Caffeine is an adenosine antagonist. It parks in the receptor and blocks the signal. It does not remove the adenosine; it just hides the bill. Chronic use leads to receptor upregulation (tolerance). To restore deep sleep quality, one must periodically cycle off antagonists to allow receptors to re-sensitize.