Pharmacology in neurorehabilitation Flashcards
(70 cards)
Describe the requirements for neurotransmitter classification.
Neurotransmitters must be synthesized by neurons, present in pre-synaptic vesicles, have regulatory mechanisms, have specific receptors, and show effects when provided artificially.
Explain the process of dopamine (DA) re-uptake.
Dopamine is released in the synapse, binds to pre-synaptic receptors (D2/D3), which causes the opening of the pre-synaptic DA transporter for re-uptake.
How can medications affect dopamine levels in the synapse?
Medications can block the pre-synaptic receptor, increasing the quantity of dopamine in the synapse, which enhances binding to post-synaptic receptors, thereby increasing motivation, energy, awakening, and attention.
What is the difference between dopamine re-uptake and serotonin (SE) & norepinephrine (NE) re-uptake?
Dopamine re-uptake requires binding to a pre-synaptic receptor to open the transporter, while serotonin and norepinephrine re-uptake do not require this binding.
Identify the main receptor sites for dopamine (DA).
D1: Prefrontal cortex, Basal nuclei, Amygdala, Hippocampus, Hypothalamus;
D2: Basal nuclei, VTA, Entorhinal cortex, Hypothalamus;
D3: Amygdala, Hippocampus, OFC, mPFC;
D4: Prefrontal cortex, Hypothalamus, Brainstem;
D5: Hippocampus, Thalamus.
Describe the key pathways associated with dopamine (DA).
The mesocortical pathway is involved in goal-directed behavior, attention, and motivation; the mesolimbic pathway is associated with pleasure and emotional processes; the nigrostriatal pathway regulates movement, attention, and adaptation.
Define the role of the mesocortical pathway in dopamine function.
The mesocortical pathway is crucial for goal-directed behavior, attention, and motivation.
What emotional processes are influenced by the mesolimbic pathway?
The mesolimbic pathway influences pleasure and emotional processes.
What is the nigrostriatal pathway responsible for?
The nigrostriatal pathway is responsible for regulating movement, attention, and adaptation.
Describe the primary functions of serotonin (5-HT).
Serotonin modulates mood, anxiety and impulsivity, perception of pain, and memory; influences anger, aggression, and fear; affects appetite and sexuality; and has an indirect role in motor control and cerebellar function.
Identify the location of norepinephrine (NE) production in the brain.
Norepinephrine is located in the locus coeruleus.
What does norepinephrine (NE) ?
Norepinephrine regulates the sleep-wake cycle, influences feeding behavior, and is involved in attention and memory consolidation. Closely related to stress
During stress :
- Trigger flight or fight response
- Incr. alertness & arousal
- Incr. attention & vigilance
- Incr. BP & HR
Define the role of GABA in the nervous system.
GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, synthesized from glutamate, and plays a role in preventing neuronal over-excitation.
What is the primary function of glutamate in the brain?
Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter and is involved in cognition and memory consolidation.
List the common side effects of diuretics like mannitol.
Common side effects include decreased
- visual acuity
- muscle pain
- altered thirst sensation
- limited urination
- postural hypotension
- general weakness.
What are the adverse effects associated with the use of diuretics?
Adverse effects can include
- chest pain
- dry cough
- severe dehydration
- decreased consciousness
- respiratory gas exchange issues
- renal failure
- seizures
- fever
How should clinicians monitor patients on diuretics?
Clinicians should monitor:
- joint stability due to potential swelling
- assess skin elasticity for dehydration
- and consider the timing of physical therapy due to orthostatic hypotension.
What is the primary purpose of anticonvulsants in neurorehabilitation?
The primary purpose of anticonvulsants is seizure prevention and activity reduction.
Explain the importance of anticonvulsants during the acute phase of treatment.
Anticonvulsants are important in the acute phase to reduce seizure risk and promote healing through activity reduction.
What are the common side effetcs of Anticonvulsants?
- Dizziness
- Diplopia
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Ataxia
- Weight loss
What are the serious adverse effects of the anticonvulsants?
- PR interval prolongation
- Atrial fibrillation
- Psychosis
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Hepatic failure or multiorgan failure
- Heat stroke
Describe the mechanism of action for barbiturates like Pentobarbital Sodium.
Barbiturates work by potentiating GABA, which leads to sedation.
What’s the goal of using barbiturates?
It’s a “sedation” medication.
It reduces the activity and heavy cognitive load, leading to promote healing & manage pain.
List common side effects of barbiturates.
Common side effects include:
- mental confusion
- hallucinations
- agitation
- somnolence
- bradycardia
- weakness
- decr. HR