Basic Principles of Psychopharmacology

Flashcards covering key concepts and principles of psychopharmacology, focusing on neurotransmitters, their functions, and associated pathways.

three possible actions

Neurotransmitters can have __ actions: excitatory, inhibitory, and modulatory.

The process through which neurotransmitters are reabsorbed back into the neuron is called reuptake.

reuptake.

The main difference between hormones, neurotransmitters is that hormones travel through the bloodstream while neurotransmitters act at synapses.

hormones travel through the bloodstream while neurotransmitters act at synapses.

Serotonin is also known as __, an important neurotransmitter and hormone in the body.

5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)

A precursor to serotonin is the amino acid __, which is obtained through diet.

Tryptophan

In the __, serotonin plays a role in gastric motility and can contribute to feelings of nausea.

PNS (Peripheral Nervous System)

The serotonergic pathway in the prefrontal cortex is linked to

MDD, anxiety, and OCD.

The main function of dopamine is involved in

reward-mediated behavior and movement.

Dopamine is synthesized in the

adrenal gland, substantia nigra, and VTA.

Norepinephrine is primarily known to be involved in the __ response.

fight-or-flight

In the CNS, norepinephrine influences __, dreaming, and learning.

attention and emotion

The prefrontal cortex modulates

cognitive function and decision-making and is implicated in ADHD and MDD.

Serotonin can influence weight loss by promoting feelings of __.

satiety

The dopaminergic pathways are critical for movement control initiated by dopamine release.

dopaminergic

The cerebellum helps modulate neurons to keep __ movements for aversive learning.

smooth