MS-377 acts selectively at the sigma-1 receptor as an antagonist. It does not act on dopamine or serotonin receptors unlike most anti-psychotics. Tests have shown that MS-377 could displace ligand binding from the sigma-1 receptor, but did this not happen at the sigma-2, 5-HT2 and D2 receptors, suggesting that it is selective for the sigma-1 receptor.[4]
^Takahashi, S.; Sonehara, K.; Takagi, K.; Miwa, T.; Horikomi, K.; Mita, N.; Nagase, H.; Iizuka, K.; Sakai, K. (August 1999). "Pharmacological profile of MS-377, a novel antipsychotic agent with selective affinity for sigma receptors". Psychopharmacology. 145 (3): 295–302. doi:10.1007/s002130051061. ISSN0033-3158. PMID10494578. S2CID12904841.
^Takahashi, S.; Horikomi, K.; Kato, T. (2001-09-21). "MS-377, a novel selective sigma(1) receptor ligand, reverses phencyclidine-induced release of dopamine and serotonin in rat brain". European Journal of Pharmacology. 427 (3): 211–219. doi:10.1016/s0014-2999(01)01254-7. ISSN0014-2999. PMID11567651.