Benzodiazepines mainly affect which neurotransmitter:
- A) Gama- amino- butyric-acid
- B) Noradrenaline
- C) Serotonin***
- D) Dopamine.
Benzodiazepines mainly affect the neurotransmitter (A) Gamma- amino- butyric-acid (GABA).
GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It works by slowing down the activity of neurons. Benzodiazepines work by increasing the activity of GABA receptors, which further slows down the activity of neurons. This produces the calming and sedative effects that are associated with benzodiazepines.
Neurotransmitters:
The other neurotransmitters listed in the answer choices are not as prominently affected by benzodiazepines:
- Noradrenaline:
Noradrenaline is an excitatory neurotransmitter that is involved in arousal and attention. Benzodiazepines can have a mild sedative effect on the noradrenaline system, but this is not their primary mechanism of action.
- Serotonin:
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood, sleep, and appetite. Benzodiazepines can have a mild effect on the serotonin system, but this is also not their primary mechanism of action.
- Dopamine:
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in movement, motivation, and reward. Benzodiazepines have very little effect on the dopamine system.
Therefore, the correct answer is (A) Gamma- amino- butyric-acid (GABA).
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pharmac