Most drugs that people use affect the transmission of
signals in neurons, either at the synapse
(Neurotransmitters) or the cell membrane.
• Local Anesthetics
– Cocaine, procaine, tetracaine -- act directly on membrane
decreasing permeability to Na+
.
• Drugs affecting Neurotransmitters
– Stimulants -- Amphetamines and cocaine derivatives stimulate
noradrenaline activity.
– Sedatives and hypnotics -- barbiturates and alcohol inhibit
noradrenaline activity.
– Opiates -- stimulate endorphin activities