The Impact of Drugs on Brain Cells

Abstract

This presentation provides and overview and discussion of the impact that various drugs have on brain cells. First, I consider the anatomy of the brain cell (AKA neuron). Second, I explain the communication processes involved in neural transmission, processes necessary for the human experience of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Communication within a neuron involves an electrical event called an action potential. Communication between neurons is a chemical process dependent on the release of neurotransmitters from a pre-synaptic neuron that serve to either excite or inhibit an action potential in the post-synaptic neuron. Third, I consider the ways in which various classes of drugs impact communication between neurons and some of the consequences.