Neuropharmacology: A Case-Based Approach

Neuropharmacology is the study of the manner in which medications alter the cellular function in the nervous system, and the neurological mechanisms by which they influence behavior. Behavioral neuropharmacology and molecular neuropharmacology are the two main branches of neuropharmacology. The study of the impact of drugs on human behavior is the focus of behavioral neuropharmacology. It also studies how drug dependency and addiction affect the human brain. The study of neurons and their neurochemical interactions is known as molecular neuropharmacology. It aims to discover the medications that improve brain function. Both these branches of neuropharmacology deal with the interplay of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, neurohormones, neuromodulators, enzymes, second messengers, co-transporters, ion channels and receptor proteins in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Various researches are being conducted for studying these interactions with an aim to develop medications to treat various neurological problems, including pain, neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders and addiction. This book consists of contributions made by international experts. The various advancements in neuropharmacology along with their applications have also been explained in detail within this book. It will serve as an excellent reference for a broad spectrum of readers.