Antagonists of the tachykinin receptors, which have been most widely used in scientific investigations during the past decade (up to 1995 inclusive), are reviewed. The structures and peculiar characteristics of peptide and nonpeptide compounds of this class are described. Applications of these antagonists in the search for new subtypes of tachykinin receptors and for structure-function studies are discussed. © 1997 MAEe cyrillic signK Hayκa/Interperiodica Publishing.