Chapter 4: Psychopharmacology Flashcards
Neuromodulators
A chemical messenger that communicates with target cells more distant than the synapse by diffusing away from the point of release
Neurotransmitter (NT)
A chemical messenger that communicates across a synapse
Neurophormones
A chemical messenger that communicates with target cells at great distance, often by traveling through the circulation
Cholinergic
Nerve cells or fibers that employ acetylcholine as their NT
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE)
An enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine
Monoamines
One of a major group of biogenic amine neurotransmitters, including dopamine, neropinephrine, epinephrine, and serotonin
Catecholamines
A member of a group of related bogenic amines that includes dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine
Indolamines
One of a subgroup of monoamines, including serotonin and melatonin
Amino Acids
An essential component of proteins
Neuropeptides
A peptide that acts as a NT, a neuromadulator, or a neurohormone
Gaseous Neurotransmitters
Gaseous molecules that diffuse through membranes without needing vesicles or a release mechanism and act on receptors located within cells rather than on receptors. Examples are NO (Nitric Oxide which is in charge of blood pressure and penile erection)
Lipid Neurotransmitters
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Agonist
Substance that promotes the activity of a NT
Antagonist
Substance that reduces the action of a NT
Placebo Effect
Perceived benefit from inactive substances or procedures
Tolerance
The process in which more of a drug is needed to produce the same effect
Withdrawal
The symptoms that occur when certain addictive drugs are no longer administered or are administered in smaller quantities
Addiction
A compulsive craving for drug effects or other experience
Nucleus Accumbens
A dopaminergic structure believed to participate in reward and addiction
Mesolimbic Dopamine Pathway
Pathway where dopamine is carried from one part of the brain to the other
