NS_and_Brain

Adrenergic agents

Medications or substances that mimic the action of the sympathetic nervous system by acting on adrenergic receptors.

Cholinergic agents

Medications or substances that mimic the action of the parasympathetic nervous system by acting on cholinergic receptors.

Sympathetic division

Part of the autonomic nervous system that mobilizes the body’s resources during stress; known as the 'fight or flight' system.

Parasympathetic division

Part of the autonomic nervous system that conserves energy and promotes 'rest and digest' functions.

Acetylcholine (Ach)

Neurotransmitter used by the parasympathetic nervous system and at the neuromuscular junction.

Norepinephrine (NE)

Neurotransmitter used by the sympathetic nervous system to initiate 'fight or flight' responses.

Vasoconstriction

The narrowing of blood vessels, which increases blood pressure.

Bronchodilation

The expansion of bronchial passages to improve airflow in the lungs.

Cholinergic agonist

A substance that stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system by acting on cholinergic receptors.

Cholinergic antagonist

A substance that inhibits the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system by blocking cholinergic receptors.

Catecholamines

A class of chemicals that includes neurotransmitters like epinephrine and norepinephrine, involved in the body's response to stress.

Acetylcholinesterase

An enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft, terminating its action.

Sympathomimetic

A drug that mimics the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.

Sympatholytic

A drug that inhibits or blocks the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.

Parasympathomimetic

A drug that stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system.

Parasympatholytic

A drug that inhibits or blocks the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system.

Adrenergic Alpha channel

Vasoconstriction and higher BP

Adrenergic Beta one channel

Higher HR and more force

Adrenergic Beta two channel

Bronchodilation