Mnemonics for Neurotransmitters and Syndromes

Serotonin Functions

• Regulates mood, impacting depression.
• Reduces obsessive behaviors and compulsions.
• Can abort migraines and decrease anxiety.
• 90% of serotonin is found in the gastrointestinal tract, activating intestines.
• Antagonists of 5HT help prevent nausea.
• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) may lead to decreased sexual functioning.

Serotonin Syndrome (SHIVERS) Symptoms

• Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal symptom.
• Shivering indicates a hyperthermic reaction.
• Hyperreflexia and myoclonus can signify increased neuromuscular activity.
• Elevated body temperature as a physiological response.
• Unstable vital signs can reflect severe distress.
• Encephalopathy indicates altered brain function.
• Restlessness is frequently reported.
• Excessive sweating is a notable symptom.

Dopamine Functions

• Involvement in drug addiction through heightened dopamine levels.
• Dysregulation can lead to psychosis.
• Prolactin production is inhibited, affecting hormonal balance.
• Enhances attention and motivation.
• Can cause involuntary movements due to overactivity.
• Dopamine blockers are effective in reducing nausea.
• Increases overall energy levels.

Acetylcholine Functions (SLUDGEM)

• Stimulates salivation, sexual arousal, and slows heart rate.
• Involved in lacrimation (tear production).
• Promotes urination.
• Diaphoresis (sweating) as a physiological response.
• Affects gastrointestinal motility.
• Causes emesis (vomiting).
• Induces miosis (constriction of pupils).

Antihistamines Overview

• Used to help reduce insomnia.
• Decrease stomach acid production and manage acid-related issues.
• Provide relief from allergic reactions.

Histamine Functions

• Facilitates activation of the cerebral cortex, contributing to wakefulness.
• Stimulates gastric acid production in the stomach.
• Functions as an inflammatory chemical in allergic responses.

Functions of Acetylcholine

• Essential for the contraction of skeletal muscles.
• Important in the CNS for learning, memory, and attention; damage to cholinergic receptors can lead to cognitive decline, as seen in Alzheimer's.

Neuropeptides Functions (Opioids)

• Provides analgesia (pain relief).
• Can lead to respiratory depression at high levels.
• Causes miosis (constriction of pupils).
• Induces euphoria and drowsiness.
• May result in constipation as a side effect.

Mu Opioid Receptor

• Morphine acts at the Mu receptor, serving as an effective analgesic.

Functions of GABA

• Functions as the brain's "OFF" switch, counteracting excitement by promoting relaxation (similar to benzodiazepine effects).

Functions of Glutamate

• Acts as the brain's "ON" switch, amplifying neuronal signaling for enhanced communication.

Glutamate Memory Mnemonic

• Represents key roles in memory and thought processes.

Mnemonic for Key Neurotransmitters

• The phrase "So Damn Naughty! Good Gracious, Nudes Are Hot!" represents:
  • Serotonin
  • Dopamine
  • Norepinephrine
  • GABA
  • Glutamate
  • Neuropeptides
  • Acetylcholine
  • Histamine

Valproate Side Effects Mnemonic

• "Valpro ate a FOLATE PLaTe" to remember:
  • Folate is crucial to prevent neural tube defects.
  • P: pancreatitis risks.
  • L: liver problems.
  • T: thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).