Neurotransmitters and Substance Use Disorders

Flashcards covering central nervous system neurotransmitters, receptor classifications, and concepts related to substance use disorders.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that produces an excitatory response in the CNS and binds to cholinergic receptors.

Cholinergic Receptors

Receptors that bind acetylcholine, consisting of two main types: nicotinic and muscarinic receptors.

Nicotinic Receptors

Cholinergic receptors found in certain regions of the brain that can be stimulated by acetylcholine or nicotine.

Muscarinic Receptors

Cholinergic receptors found in many regions of the brain involved in learning, memory, and cognitive function, stimulated by acetylcholine or muscarine.

GABA (Gamma-amino butyric acid)

The primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.

GABAergic Neurons

Neurons that release GABA, found along with GABA receptors in high concentrations in the cerebral cortex.

Benzodiazepines

A class of CNS depressants that enhance GABA receptor function.

Endogenous Opioid Peptides

Neuropeptides consisting of three main classes: enkephalins, endorphins, and dynorphins, which have varying selectivity for opioid receptors.

Opioid Receptors

Three receptor types (mu, delta, and kappa) that respond to endogenous opioid peptides.

Glutamate

The primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

A clinically defined condition characterized by meeting specific criteria involving social impairment, risky use, impaired control, withdrawal, and tolerance.

Withdrawal

A condition or set of symptoms occurring after stopping the use of a substance.

Tolerance

A state where increased amounts of a substance are needed to achieve the desired effect after repeated use.