Basic Concepts of Neuropharmacology

Learn about the Basic Concepts of Neuropharmacology. The nervous system, types, and classification of the nervous system.

Nervous System

CNS (Central Nervous System) -  Include brain & spinal cord

PNS (Peripheral Nervous system)   Peripheral of brain and spinal cord

It has 2 division.

ANS (Autonomic Nervous System) - Work based on autonomic control. 

Somatic Nervous System - Work based on our control. 

ANS

It also has two division.

Sympathetic

works in emergency condition like fight & flight.

e.g. Dilation of pupil, Heart rate increase etc.

Parasympathetic

works in normal condition as in resting.

e.g. Constriction of pupil, Heart rate decrease, Salivation etc.

  

Parasympathetic System

It has main neurotransmitter as Acetylcholine that bind to cholinergic receptor.

The drugs that mimic the action of Acetylcholine known as Parasympatho-mimetic drugs.

The drugs that block the action of Acetylcholine known as Parasympatho-lytic drugs.

 

Sympathetic System

It has main neurotransmitter as Adrenaline that bind to Adrenergic receptor.

The drugs that mimic the action of Adrenaline known as Sympatho-mimetic drugs.

The drugs that block the action of Adrenaline known as Sympatho-lytic drugs.

Neurotransmitters in CNS

Inhibitory neurotransmitters

GABA, Glycine, Dopamine

(Inhibitory effect on CNS)

Excitatory neurotransmitters

Glutamate, Aspartate

(Stimulatory effect on CNS)

  
Acetylcholine, Noradrenaline, Serotonin  (5HT) 
(Mediate both inhibitory as well as excitatory effects)

IPSP
(Inhibitory Post Synaptic Potential)

When an inhibitory transmitter binds & interacts with specific receptors on postjunctional membrane, the membrane permeability to K or Cl increases.

K ions move out and Cl ions move in resulting in hyperpolarization (IPSP)

EPSP
(Excitatory Post Synaptic Potential)

When an excitatory transmitter binds & interacts with specific receptors on postjunctional membrane, the membrane permeability to cations increases.

Na ions move in (Na influx) resulting in depolarization followed by K efflux.