Mechanisms of Drug Action and Neurotransmitters

These flashcards cover the mechanisms of drug action, especially related to postsynaptic receptors, drug types, and neurotransmitters including acetylcholine.

Postsynaptic receptors

Receptors located on the postsynaptic side of a synapse that bind neurotransmitters.

Agonist

A drug that activates a receptor, causing the ion channel to open.

Antagonist

A drug that blocks a receptor, preventing it from being activated.

Competitive action

When a drug competes with a neurotransmitter for the same principal site on a receptor.

Noncompetitive action

When a drug binds to an alternate site on a receptor, not competing with the neurotransmitter.

Affinity

The strength with which a chemical binds to its receptor or site.

Naloxone (Narcan)

A drug that has a high affinity for opioid receptors and can reverse opioid overdose by blocking the receptor.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter important for muscle contraction in the peripheral nervous system and for learning and memory in the central nervous system.

Botulinum toxin

An acetylcholine antagonist that prevents its release, causing paralysis.

Nicotinic receptors

Ionotropic acetylcholine receptors that mediate effects of nicotine and are involved in attention and memory.

Muscarinic receptors

Metabotropic acetylcholine receptors that play roles in various physiological functions.

Partial agonist

A drug that partially activates a receptor, providing some effects without full activation.

Opioid maintenance therapy

Treatment involving the use of partial agonists to relieve withdrawal symptoms without full intoxication.