Lecture 16 - What do psychoactive drugs and medications do?

Question 1

Describe the neurotransmitter, Glutamate.

Answer 1

Glutamate:

Excitatory; sensory input / motor output

Question 2

Describe the neurotransmitter, GABA.

Answer 2

GABA:
Inhibitory:
(reduced in epilepsy; affected by many things, including alcohol)

Question 3

Describe the neurotransmitter, Dopamine.

Answer 3

Dopamine:

“Modulatory”. Pleasure / reward.

Question 4

Describe the neurotransmitter, Serotonin.

Answer 4

Serotonin:

“Modulatory”. General well being. (anti-depressants)

Question 5

Describe the neurotransmitter, Adrenalin.

Answer 5

Adrenalin / nor-adrenalin:
Body brain communication; flight/fight
Response.

Question 6

Define agonist.

Answer 6

Enhances neurotransmission.

Question 7

Define antagonist.

Answer 7

Reduces neurotransmission.

Question 8

What do anti-depressants do at the synapse?

Answer 8

Anti-depressants:

e.g. Prozac, block reuptake of 5-HT / serotonin

Question 9

What does alcohol do at the synapse?

Answer 9

Alcohol:
GABA agonist (+ complex non-specific effect acting on many bodily tissues).

Question 10

What does nicotine do at the synapse?

Answer 10

Nicotine:
Activates a class of acetyl choline receptors. Activates sympathetic nervous system.

Question 11

What does cocaine do at the synapse?

Answer 11

Cocaine:

Cocaine blocks reuptake of dopamine into synaptic terminals. Also serotonin and noradrenalin.

Question 12

What do amphetamines do at the synapse?

Answer 12

Amphetamines:

Also dopamine, serotonin and noradrenalin

Question 13

What do opiates do at the synapse?

Answer 13

Opiates:
(heroin & morphine): Opiate receptors in limbic system led to discovery of “endogenous” opiates endorphins and enkaphalins.

Question 14

Reading is on lecture 13 cards, or on relevant powerpoint.

Answer 14

:)