Nervous system Flashcards
(27 cards)
What is the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?
A subdivision of the nervous system responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions.
List the primary neurotransmitters of the autonomic nervous system.
- Acetylcholine
- Norepinephrine
- Epinephrine
What is the role of drugs in the autonomic nervous system?
Drugs can modify the functions of the ANS, affecting bodily responses.
What are the different classes of ANS drugs?
- Anticholinergics
- Adrenergic agonists
- Adrenergic antagonists
Define central nervous system (CNS).
The part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord.
List the categories of CNS drugs.
- Stimulants
- Depressants
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
What are barbiturates?
A class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants.
List the major classification schemes of barbiturates.
- Ultra-short acting
- Short acting
- Intermediate acting
- Long acting
What is dissociative anesthesia?
A state induced by certain anesthetic agents that disconnects perception from sensation.
List three examples of dissociative agents.
- Ketamine
- Tiletamine
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
What are opiate receptors?
Specific receptors in the brain that bind to opioids to produce effects such as analgesia.
List the opiate receptors and their basic functions.
- Mu (μ) - analgesia, euphoria
- Delta (δ) - analgesia, mood regulation
- Kappa (κ) - analgesia, sedation
What are the indications for the use of narcotics?
Pain relief, cough suppression, and diarrhea treatment.
What are potential side effects of narcotic use or overdose?
- Respiratory depression
- Constipation
- Sedation
- Addiction
How do opioid antagonists exert their effects?
By blocking the action of opioids at receptor sites.
List three examples of opioid antagonists.
- Naloxone
- Naltrexone
- Nalmefene
Define neuroleptanalgesics.
A combination of a sedative and an analgesic used for anesthesia.
Give an example of a neuroleptanalgesic.
Acepromazine combined with an opioid.
List examples of drugs used to prevent or control seizures.
- Phenytoin
- Carbamazepine
- Valproate
List commonly used inhalant anesthetic agents.
- Isoflurane
- Sevoflurane
- Desflurane
Define minimum alveolar concentration (MAC).
The concentration of anesthetic in the alveoli that prevents movement in 50% of subjects in response to surgical stimulus.
What is the partition coefficient in relation to inhalant anesthetics?
A measure of the solubility of the anesthetic in blood compared to alveolar gas.
What is vapor pressure in relation to inhalant anesthetics?
The pressure exerted by a vapor in equilibrium with its liquid phase at a given temperature.
What are the primary uses of CNS stimulants?
To increase alertness, attention, and energy.