Applied Neuropharmacology

Question 1

Why are side effects so common in neuropharmacology?

Answer 1

There is a limited range of neurotransmitters and so they normally have multiple functions in different regions. Aiming to suppress the function of one region can affect many regions

Question 2

What are the side effects of dopaminergic drugs?

Answer 2

Nausea
Vomiting
Psychosis
Impulsivity/abnormal behaviours

Question 3

Describe the sequence of events in synaptic transmission?

Answer 3

1. Synthesis and packaging of neurotransmitter (usually) in presynaptic terminals
2. Na+ action potential invades terminal
3. Activates voltage gated Ca2+-channels
4. Triggers Ca2+-dependent exocytosis of pre-packaged vesicles of transmitter
5. Transmitter diffuses across cleft and binds to ionotropic and/or metabotropic receptors to evoke postsynaptic response
6. Presynaptic autoreceptors inhibit further transmitter release
7. Transmitter is (usually) inactivated by uptake into glia or neurones
8. Or transmitter is (unusually) inactivated by extracellular breakdown
9. Transmitter is metabolised within cells