Neurobiologic Theories and Psychopharmacology

A set of 50 flashcards focusing on key terminology and concepts related to neurobiologic theories, psychopharmacology, and mental health.

CNS

Central Nervous System, which consists of the brain and spinal cord.

PNS

Peripheral Nervous System, comprising all nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.

Neurotransmission

The process of sending electrochemical messages from neuron to neuron.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical substances that aid in the transmission of information across synapses.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter involved in motivation, cognition, and emotional response.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter that plays a role in attention, learning, and memory.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation and other functions like sleep and wakefulness.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter involved in muscle activation and cognitive functions.

Glutamate

An excitatory neurotransmitter that can have neurotoxic effects at high levels.

GABA

Gamma-aminobutyric acid, the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.

Brain Imaging Techniques

Methods used to visualize brain structure and function for diagnosis and research.

CT Scan

Computed Tomography, a technique using x-ray beams to visualize the brain's structure.

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a technique using magnets and radio waves to create detailed brain images.

PET Scan

Positron Emission Tomography, a technique to monitor brain activity using radioactive substances.

SPECT

Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography, similar to PET but uses a single photon.

Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS)

Side effects of antipsychotic drugs characterized by movement disorders.

Tardive Dyskinesia (TD)

A chronic condition of involuntary movements caused by long-term use of antipsychotics.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)

A severe reaction to antipsychotic medications presenting with rigidity and fever.

Black Box Warning

A serious warning on medications indicating potential life-threatening side effects.

Antipsychotics

Medications used to treat symptoms of psychosis such as delusions and hallucinations.

Antidepressants

Medications that help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Mood Stabilizers

Drugs used to treat mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder.

Anxiolytics

Medications that reduce anxiety.

Stimulants

Drugs that increase alertness and energy.

Medication Management

The process of overseeing and adjusting medication to optimize treatment outcomes.

Efficacy

The maximum therapeutic effect a drug can achieve.

Potency

The amount of a drug required to achieve its maximum effect.

Half-life

The time it takes for half of a drug to be eliminated from the bloodstream.

Psychoimmunology

The study of the interaction between psychological processes and the immune system.

Genetics

The study of genes and their role in mental disorders.

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate over the relative contributions of genetics and environment to behavior and traits.

Twin Studies

Research comparing rates of mental illness in identical and fraternal twins.

Adoption Studies

Research determining traits among biological vs. adoptive family members.

Family Studies

Research comparing the prevalence of traits among first-degree relatives and the general population.

Neurobiologic Causes

The complex origins of mental disorders that involve biological factors.

Drug Safety

The regulation and monitoring of medications for public health.

Client Teaching

Educating clients about their medications and how to manage side effects.

D2 Receptors

Dopamine receptors that, when blocked by antipsychotics, can cause EPS.

Clozapine

An atypical antipsychotic with specific safety monitoring requirements.

Dosage Adjustment

The process of modifying medication doses for optimal effectiveness.

Reuptake

The process by which neurotransmitters are reabsorbed into the presynaptic neuron.

Therapeutic Regimen

A prescribed plan for treatment, including medications and therapies.

Pharmacologic Treatment Principles

Guidelines for the effective and safe use of medications in mental health.

Neurotransmitter Regulation

Balancing neurotransmitter levels for effective communication in the brain.

Emotional Responses

How individuals express and manage emotions, often influenced by neurotransmitters.

Impulsive Behavior

Actions taken without forethought or consideration of consequences.

Cholinergic Receptors

Receptors that respond to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

Psychoeducation

Teaching clients and families about mental health and treatment options.

Supportive Care

Medical assistance aimed at comfort and symptom relief rather than cure.