Central Nervous System Drugs

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to Central Nervous System drugs, their mechanisms of action, and associated conditions.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system made up of nerves that branch off from the spinal cord and extends to all parts of the body.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that carry signals from one neuron to the next target cell.

Epinephrine

A neurotransmitter involved in the fight-or-flight response.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that influences movement, learning, attention, and emotion.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter enabling muscle action, learning, and memory.

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)

A major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.

COMT Inhibitors

Drugs that inhibit the metabolism of levodopa in the periphery, prolonging its effects in the brain.

Bradykinesia

Slowness of movement, a common symptom of Parkinson's Disease.

Anticholinergic Drugs

Medications that block the effects of acetylcholine to reduce symptoms of parkinsonism.

Triptans

Medications that act as agonists for serotonin receptors, used primarily in the treatment of migraines.

Barbiturates

A class of drugs used as anticonvulsants; not the first line of treatment for seizures.

Phenytoin (Dilantin)

An anticonvulsant used to prevent seizures by stabilizing nerve cells.

Baclofen (Lioresal)

A medication that acts as a muscle relaxant, often used to treat spasticity.

Stimulants

Medications that increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, primarily used to treat ADHD.

Serotonin Agonists

Drugs that bind to serotonin receptors to alleviate migraines by constricting blood vessels.

Muscle Spasm

Involuntary contraction of a muscle or muscle group; usually self-limiting.

Migraine

A type of headache characterized by recurrent moderate to severe pain, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light.

Epilepsy

A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.

Parkinson's Disease (PD)

A chronic and progressive movement disorder that involves the malfunction and death of neurons that produce dopamine.