Central Nervous System Drugs PDF

CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM Central nervous system (CNS) pharmacology is the study of how drugs affect the central nervous system, which is responsible for controlling most bodily functions. CNS drugs are used to treat disorders or alter the level of arousal in the CNS.  Some types...

CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM Central nervous system (CNS) pharmacology is the study of how drugs affect the central nervous system, which is responsible for controlling most bodily functions. CNS drugs are used to treat disorders or alter the level of arousal in the CNS.  Some types of CNS drugs include: CNS stimulants: Also known as analeptics, these drugs can be used in anesthesia, pain medicine, and psychiatry. They can be divided into three categories: Psychomotor stimulants: Increase motor activity, reduce fatigue, and produce excitement and euphoria. Psychotomimetic: Also known as hallucinogens, these drugs alter mental function and perception. Respiratory stimulants: Also known as convulsants, these drugs increase neuronal activity in the spinal cord and brainstem.  Other CNS drugs These include anesthetics, anticonvulsants, antiemetics, antiparkinsonian agents, muscle relaxants, narcotic analgesics, and sedatives. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid that acts as the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS). GABA is a key factor in brain activity, and its role is mediated by two types of receptors: GABAA and GABAB. GABAergic neurotransmission is essential for proper cell  Some neurotransmitters in the CNS include: Norepinephrine: Associated with the fight-or-flight response, depression, and anxiety Dopamine: Linked to motor and cognition, and associated with ADHD, paranoia, and schizophrenia Serotonin: Involved in many bodily processes, and associated with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and body disorders GABA: An inhibitory neurotransmitter that assists with brain communication Glutamate: An excitatory neurotransmitter that works with GABA to control other brain functions