CNS Pharmacology Lecture Notes

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and definitions from CNS pharmacology lecture notes, focusing on medications, their mechanisms, and related conditions.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord; controls cardiovascular, muscular, and other body systems.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

All the parts of the nervous system beyond the brain and spinal cord.

Benzodiazepines

A class of medications used primarily for acute anxiety; they bind to GABA receptors to produce a calming effect.

GABA receptors

Neurotransmitter receptors that benzodiazepines bind to in order to depress CNS activity.

Flumazenil

The reversal agent for benzodiazepine overdose, primarily used to reverse respiratory depression.

Serotonin Syndrome

A life-threatening condition characterized by high fevers, muscle rigidity, and mental status changes due to excessive serotonin.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

Medications that inhibit norepinephrine and serotonin reuptake and are often sedating.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

A common class of antidepressants that prevent the reuptake of serotonin in the brain.

Lithium

A mood stabilizer used to treat bipolar disorder, known for having a narrow therapeutic range and risk of toxicity.

Antipsychotics

Medications that block dopamine receptors in the brain, used to treat schizophrenia and other conditions.

Dependence

A condition that can develop with benzodiazepines and barbiturates, leading to physical and psychological reliance on medications.

Panic disorders

Anxiety disorders characterized by unexpected and repeated episodes of intense fear.

Tardive Dyskinesia

A severe adverse effect of antipsychotics manifested as involuntary movements, often affecting facial muscles.

Dual-action antidepressants

Medications like SNRIs that inhibit the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine.

Status Epilepticus

A medical emergency characterized by prolonged or repeated seizures without recovery of consciousness.

Parkinson's Disease

A progressive disorder that affects movement due to an imbalance between dopamine and acetylcholine.

Anticonvulsants

Medications used to prevent or control seizures; should not be abruptly withdrawn.

Barbiturates

CNS depressants that produce sedation and can cause severe dependence, but lack an available reversal agent.