2.5

Question 1

Describe the difference between agonists and antagonists drugs.

Answer 1

Agonist drugs will increase the effects of a certain neurotransmitter, while agonist drugs will minimize the effects of a neurotransmitter or stop them completely

Question 2

Explain how agonist drugs impact receptors in the synapse.

Answer 2

Agonist drugs work by either binding to receptors that are made for a certain neurotransmitter so that the body will act as though there are more of that neurotransmitter or will block the normal reuptake so that there are more of that neurotransmitter that will stay in the synapse available to be used

Question 3

Explain how antagonist drugs impact receptors in the synapse

Answer 3

Antagonist drugs will either block the receptors on the postsynaptic neuron so that the neurotransmitters are not able to bind to them or will block the release of the neurotransmitter from the presynaptic axon terminal

Question 4

Identify an example of an agonist substance and describe its impact on the body.

Answer 4

Examples include;1)Anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax, which increases the neurotransmitter GABA, which calms the person down. 2) Prozac, which delays the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin, making it more available and helping elevate or stabilize the person’s mood. 3) Opioids, which act like the neurotransmitter endorphins, which will help relieve pain and boost happiness. 4) Alcohol, which will bind to GABA receptors, which is why a person can get tired/relaxed from drinking

Question 5

Identify an example of an antagonist substance and describe its impact on the body

Answer 5

Examples include;1)Schizophrenia medication, which blocks the receptors for dopamine because the person is thought to have an excess amount and will reduce their symptoms. 2) Alcohol, which will block the release of glutamate, which slows down the body’s neural activity, such as slurred speech