Psychiatric neurotransmitters
For this assignment you will construct a way for you to remember the psychiatric neurotransmitters that are involved in the pathophysiology of many psychiatric disorders and the psychopharmacology. The assignment will need to include all 5 of the most important neurotransmitters we focus on: serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, acetylcholine, and dopamine.
For this assignment, create a method to help you remember the psychiatric neurotransmitters involved in the pathophysiology of many psychiatric disorders and their related psychopharmacology. You must include all five key neurotransmitters we focus on: serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, acetylcholine, and dopamine.
Clearly identify the psychological properties associated with each neurotransmitter. Then, describe the most common disorders that result from an imbalance of each neurotransmitter. Also, list the drug classes that target each neurotransmitter.
Be creative! You can build a mind map, make a chart, or come up with any tool or system that helps you memorize the neurotransmitters and understand how they influence prescribing practices in mental health care.
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Psychiatric neurotransmitters
Serotonin – The Mood Stabilizer
Serotonin is mainly responsible for mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and emotional stability. It plays a crucial role in feelings of well-being and happiness.These drugs increase serotonin levels in the brain. They are first-line treatments for mood disorders and anxiety-related conditions.
Norepinephrine – The Alertness Amplifier
Norepinephrine affects alertness, energy, attention, and the stress response. It prepares the brain and body for action and plays a role in the fight-or-flight response. Imbalances are commonly associated with depression, ADHD, and anxiety. SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), such as venlafaxine and duloxetine, target norepinephrine and serotonin. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) also affect norepinephrine levels. These medications help boost attention and mood in patients.
GABA – The Calming Agent
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. It reduces neural excitability and induces calm. Low levels of GABA are linked to anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and epilepsy. Benzodiazepines, like lorazepam and diazepam, enhance GABA activity. These are used to treat acute anxiety and seizures. GABA’s role is essential in managing overactive brain states.
Dopamine and Acetylcholine – The Movers and Motivators
Dopamine influences motivation, reward, pleasure, and motor control. Antipsychotics regulate dopamine in psychotic disorders. Acetylcholine supports memory, attention, and learning. It is deficient in Alzheimer’s disease. Cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil increase acetylcholine levels. Both neurotransmitters play a key role in cognition and coordination.
