NEUROLEPTIC Meaning and
Definition
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Neuroleptic is an adjective used to describe medications or drugs that modulate the function of the nervous system, particularly targeting the brain's chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. It primarily refers to a specific class of medications called antipsychotics, which are primarily used to treat certain mental disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. Neuroleptics work by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, thereby dampening excessive dopamine activity, which is often associated with symptoms of hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
These drugs can effectively alleviate psychiatric symptoms, manage behavioral disturbances, and reduce the intensity of hallucinations and delusions by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Other uses for neuroleptics include treating Tourette's syndrome, severe nausea and vomiting, and in some cases, as an adjunctive treatment for depression.
It is important to note, however, that neuroleptics may cause certain side effects such as sedation, weight gain, hormonal changes, and movement disorders like Parkinsonism or tardive dyskinesia. The potential side effects should be weighed against the benefits of treatment before beginning or adjusting neuroleptic medication. Therefore, close monitoring and regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are crucial for individuals taking neuroleptics to ensure optimal therapeutic benefit and to manage any potential adverse reactions.
In summary, neuroleptic is a term used to describe a class of medications known as antipsychotics, which are primarily used to treat mental disorders characterized by psychosis. These drugs work by regulating the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, primarily dopamine, to alleviate symptoms and improve overall mental health.
Common Misspellings for NEUROLEPTIC
- beuroleptic
- meuroleptic
- jeuroleptic
- heuroleptic
- nwuroleptic
- nsuroleptic
- nduroleptic
- nruroleptic
- n4uroleptic
- n3uroleptic
- neyroleptic
- nehroleptic
- nejroleptic
- neiroleptic
- ne8roleptic
- ne7roleptic
- neueoleptic
- neudoleptic
- neufoleptic
- neurolitic
Etymology of NEUROLEPTIC
The word "neuroleptic" is derived from two Greek roots: "neuro" meaning "nerve" and "leptikos" meaning "taking hold of, seizing, or grasping". The term was coined in 1955 by the French psychiatrist Jean Delay and his colleague Pierre Deniker to describe a new class of drugs they developed to treat psychiatric disorders. Neuroleptics, also known as antipsychotics, work by affecting the central nervous system and dampening psychotic symptoms.
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