Nervous System and Their Drugs
The nervous system is the body’s internal communication network. It coordinates all body functions and all adaptations to changes in the body’s internal and external environments. Because of the intricacy and complexity of the nervous system, neurologic impairments can manifest in many ways.
The nervous system is divided into the central nervous system (CNS), the peripheral nervous system, and the autonomic nervous system. Through complex and coordinated interactions, these three parts integrate all physical, intellectual, and emotional activities.
Central nervous system
The CNS includes the brain and the spinal cord, the two structures that collect and interpret voluntary and involuntary motor and sensory stimuli.
Peripheral nervous system
The peripheral nervous system includes the peripheral and cranial nerves. Peripheral sensory nerves transmit stimuli from sensory receptors in the skin, muscles, sensory organs, and viscera to the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. The upper motor neurons of the brain and the lower motor neurons of cell bodies in the ventral horn of the spinal cord carry impulses that affect movement. The 12 pairs of cranial nerves are the primary motor and sensory paths.
Treatment:
ADRENERGIC AGONIST (SYMPATHOMIMETIC): Mimics the effects of the SNS.
- Dobutamine,
- Dopamine,
- Epinephrine,
- Norepinephrine,
- Phenylephrine,
- Albuterol,
- Isoproterenol,
- Salmeterol).
ADRENERGIC BLOCKING AGENTS (SYMPATHOLYTIC): Block the effects of the SNS.
- Beta-blockers
- Amiodarone
- Tamsulosin
- Doxazosin
- Phentolamine
CHOLINERGIC AGONISTS (PARASYMPATHOMIMETIC): Mimic the effects of the PNS.
- Donepezil
- Bethanechol
- Pyridostigmine
ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS (PARASYMPATHOLYTIC): Block the effects of the PNS.
- Atropine
- Scopolamin
- Ipratropium
- Trospium
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