Psych Exam 1 - Ch. 3 (Psychobiology & Psychopharmacology

An adult has panic attacks. Which neurotransmitter is most implicated in this problem? - γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) GABA is derived chemically from glutamate and is the brain's principal inhibitory neurotransmitter. Nerve cells stimulated by inhibitory neurotransmitters, such as GABA, will be turned off, which slows or stops actions completely in postsynaptic neurons. It is directly involved in regulation of muscle tone. Norepinephrine innervates smooth muscles in blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and is present in the fight or flight response. Acetylcholine acts throughout the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and usually has an antiexcitatory action; however, it can have excitatory action at neuromuscular junctions. Serotonin is similar in action to norepinephrine. It is involved in maintaining body temperature, eating patterns, sleep/wake cycles, and regulating mood. p. 47 A nurse plans care for an adult with a tumor in the cerebellum. Initial interventions should focus on the patient's anticipated problems with which of the following? - Balance and equilibrium