Neuropsychopharmacology: A Comprehensive Review

Neuropsychopharmacology is a branch of pharmacology that focuses on the principles of pharmacology with a special emphasis on the central nervous system and autonomic nervous system. It delves into the effects of drugs on mood, sensation, thinking, and behavior. It also involves the study of drugs that are used in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disorders affecting the brain and nervous system.

Pharmacology of the Central Nervous System

The central nervous system (CNS) is responsible for integrating sensory information and responding accordingly. It includes the brain and spinal cord. The pharmacology of the CNS involves the study of drugs that affect the brain and spinal cord, and their impact on various physiological processes such as sleep, pain, mood, and cognitive functions.

Pharmacology of the Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a branch of the nervous system that functions involuntarily and regulates various involuntary actions. These actions include the beating of the heart, the widening and narrowing of blood vessels, increased or decreased sweat production, and the movement of food through the digestive system. The pharmacology of the ANS involves the study of drugs that affect these involuntary actions and the systems they regulate.

Psychiatric Disorders and Pharmacological Interventions

Psychiatric disorders are conditions that affect a person’s mood, thinking, and behavior. These disorders can be treated with pharmacological interventions. Some common psychiatric disorders include:

Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It can be treated with antidepressant drugs that work by balancing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It can cause hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking and behavior. Antipsychotic drugs are used to treat schizophrenia by reducing the symptoms of psychosis.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions that include feelings of anxiety and fear that are persistent and overwhelming. These disorders can be treated with benzodiazepines, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Learning Resources

For further learning and teaching, this volume includes end-of-chapter questions that offer real-world case studies, as well as multiple-choice questions. Additionally, there are two extensive examination tests, each containing 100 questions, and a glossary that covers key terms and concepts.

Appendices

Helpful appendices cover high-alert medications and toxicology effects on the nervous system. These appendices provide valuable information on medications that require close monitoring due to their potential for causing harm, as well as the adverse effects of certain substances on the nervous system.