Outline of Central Nervous System Drugs
Directions: MEMORIZE THIS
A. CNS Stimulants - increase activity of ALL parts of the CNS1. Amphetamines and related compounds2. Xanthines (including caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline)3. Cocaine and related local anesthetics
B. CNS Depressants - decrease activity of ALL parts of the CNS1. Sedative-hypnotics including:
a. Barbituratesb. Benzodiazepines (Nonbarbiturate substitutes)c. Alcohol
2. General Anesthetics (contrast with local anesthetics)a. Inhalation Anestheticsb. Intravenous anesthetics (such as thiopental)
Note: Ketamine will be different from all others in this class.
C. Drugs that Selectively Modify the CNS - Some areas will be stimulated, others willbe depressed.1. Antiepileptic agents
Note: often true depressants are used as one therapeutic agent (usually abarbiturate). In addition, however, selective agents are used.
2. Antiparkinson’s agents3. Analgesics
a. Narcotics and synthetic narcoticsb. Nonnarcotics
1. Salicylates (such as aspirin)2. Aniline derivatives (such as acetaminophen and phenacetin)3. NSAID’s (including ibuprofen)
4. Psychotropic Agentsa. For affective (mood) disorders
1. AntidepressantsTricyclicsMonoamine oxidase inhibitors“Others” including serotonin reuptake inhibitors (Prozac)
2. Antianxiety agentsAre few specific agents – use sedative-hypnotics“Newer” agents include buspirone / beta blockers
b. Antipsychotic agents - used to treat psychoses1. Phenothiazines2. Thioxanthenes3. Butyrophenones4. “Atypical” antipsychotics (Clozaril ®, Zyprexa®)
c. For Mania or Manic Depressive episodes1. Lithium2. Antipsychotic agents for mania3. Antidepressants for depressive episodes4. Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, valproic acid)