Psychopharmacology and Biologic Interventions

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to psychopharmacology and biologic interventions as covered in the lecture.

Target symptoms

specific measurable symptoms expected to improve with treatment

adverse reactions

unwanted effects causing serious physiologic consequences

prescribing information (PI)

includes approved indications for medication, side effects, adverse reactions, contraindications etc

boxed warning

when serious adverse reactions could occur with the use of that medication

Psychopharmacology

The study of how medications alter brain function, affecting perception, mood, consciousness, and behavior.

Pharmacodynamics

How drugs affect the body

Pharmacokinetics

How the body processes drugs, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical messengers synthesized in and released from nerve endings that relay signals across the synapse to target cells.

Agonist

A substance that mimics neurotransmitter action.

Antagonist

A substance that blocks neurotransmitter action.

Bioavailability

The amount of drug reaching circulation after administration.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter involved in mood stabilization, sleep, appetite, and pain control.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, reward, motivation, and motor control.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter associated with attention, alertness, and stress response.

GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid)

An inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces neuron excitability and induces calmness.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter essential for memory and learning.

Light Therapy

A treatment involving exposure to artificial light to reset circadian rhythms, particularly used for seasonal affective disorder.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

A treatment that uses electrical pulsation to induce seizures in the brain for rapid relief of depressive symptoms.

Medication Adherence

The ability to self-administer medications as prescribed, which can be affected by various factors.

Tardive Dyskinesia (TD)

A late-onset movement disorder caused by chronic dopamine receptor blockade.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)

A life-threatening reaction to dopamine blockade characterized by severe muscle rigidity and autonomic instability.

Acute Dystonia

Sudden, sustained muscle contractions caused by dopamine blockade, often requiring immediate medical intervention.