dopamine-receptor antagonist

any substance that reduces the effects of the neurotransmitter dopamine by competitively binding to, and thus blocking, dopamine receptors. Classically, the clinical use of dopamine antagonists in mental health has been to modulate the symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic conditions. All conventional (typical or first-generation) antipsychotic drugs are thought to act via antagonism or partial agonism of the postsynaptic dopamine D2 receptor. Most second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics possess some degree of antagonistic activity at that receptor. Other dopamine-receptor antagonists are used to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting.

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Psychology term of the day

December 18th 2024

moria

n. an obsessive or morbid desire to joke, as in some cases of dementia, particularly when the humor is inappropriate.