The Nervous System: Drugs for Anxiety and Sleep Disorders

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts about the nervous system, anxiety disorders, insomnia, and associated medications.

Limbic system

Part of the brain responsible for emotional expression, learning, and memory.

Hypothalamus

Brain region associated with the autonomic nervous system and the fight or flight response.

Cingulate gyrus

Part of the limbic system responsible for the formation and processing of emotions.

Reticular formation

Regulates sleep and alertness and is part of the reticular activating system.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that can be both excitatory and inhibitory.

GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid)

An inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain; majority of postsynaptic inhibition.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

A type of anxiety disorder characterized by persistent and excessive worry.

Phobia

An irrational fear of a specific object or situation.

Insomnia

An inability to fall asleep and/or stay asleep, often associated with anxiety disorders.

Benzodiazepines

A class of drugs known for their sedative effects, used for anxiety but with potential abuse.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

First-line pharmacotherapy for anxiety and depression that selectively increases serotonin levels.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

A class of antidepressants that are used primarily as sedatives and for anxiety.

Melatonin receptor agonist

A drug that mimics the action of melatonin, used for sleep disorders.

Beta Blockers

Medications used to manage anxiety symptoms by blocking the effects of adrenaline.

Substance P

A neuropeptide involved in the transmission of pain and stress responses.

Hydroxyzine

A first-generation antihistamine used for anxiety with sedative properties.

Addiction

A chronic disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite adverse consequences.