Basic mechanisms of psychotropic drugs
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 2, 2026

HSV-Mediated Transgene Expression of Chimeric Constructs to Study Behavioral Function of GPCR Heteromers in Mice
Published on: July 9, 2016
1Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, School of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany. ulrich.ebert@tiho-hannover.de
Abstract:
Many epilepsy patients, particularly those with complex partial seizures, also develop psychiatric disorders during the course of their illness and have to be treated with psychotropic drugs in addition to their antiepileptic medication. However, the brains of epileptic patients can be considered pathologically altered and psychotropic drugs may thus have profound and stronger effects on seizure threshold or unwanted side effects than in purely psychiatric patients. Thus, the knowledge of the mechanisms of psychotropic drugs is necessary to predict their effects in epilepsy patients. In this review, current concepts of the mechanisms of neuroleptic, antidepressant, and anxiolytic drugs emerging from basic and preclinical research are summarized, and the potential impact of using these drugs in epilepsy patients is discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Antipsychotic Drugs: Typical and Atypical Agents
An Overview of Psychoactive Drugs
Stimulants such as cocaine, amphetamines, and nicotine enhance brain activity, leading to increased alertness, attention, and energy. These drugs typically raise heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. While they can induce feelings of euphoria, their misuse can result in severe health...
CNS Stimulants: Psychedelic Agents
Neurochemical Transmission: Sites of Drug Action
Antidepressant Drugs: Overview
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications

