dopamine-receptor agonist

any drug or other agent that binds to and directly activates dopamine receptors, producing physiological effects that mimic those of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Bromocriptine is an example. Because parkinsonism is associated with a deficiency of dopamine in the brain, drugs that help to maintain adequate levels of dopamine are valuable in treating the disorder. Dopamine-receptor agonists are used to manage some of the drug-induced parkinsonian symptoms associated with use of antipsychotic drugs; they are also used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, galactorrhea, and prolactin-secreting tumors of the pituitary gland. Also called dopaminergic agent.

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Psychology term of the day

December 23rd 2024

SNRI

serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor: any of a class of antidepressants that exert their therapeutic effects by interfering with the reabsorption of both serotonin and norepinephrine by the neurons that released them. They include venlafaxine and duloxetine.