Dopamine agonist
Dopamine Agonist
A Dopamine Agonist (pronounced: doh-puh-meen ah-guh-nist) is a type of medication that mimics the actions of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain.
Etymology
The term "Dopamine Agonist" is derived from the Greek words "dopas" meaning "to receive" and "agonistes" meaning "actor". This is in reference to the drug's ability to act in place of dopamine in the brain.
Definition
Dopamine agonists are a class of drugs that bind to and activate dopamine receptors in the brain. They are used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including Parkinson's disease, Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), and certain pituitary tumors.
Mechanism of Action
Dopamine agonists work by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain, mimicking the effect of naturally occurring dopamine. This can help to alleviate symptoms in conditions where dopamine levels are low or dopamine function is impaired.
Types of Dopamine Agonists
There are several types of dopamine agonists, including:
- Levodopa: This is the most commonly used dopamine agonist for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
- Pramipexole and Ropinirole: These are often used to treat Restless Legs Syndrome.
- Bromocriptine and Cabergoline: These are used to treat certain types of pituitary tumors.
Side Effects
Like all medications, dopamine agonists can have side effects. These may include nausea, dizziness, and sleepiness. In some cases, they can also cause compulsive behaviors, such as gambling or overeating.
Related Terms
- Dopamine Antagonist: A type of drug that blocks the action of dopamine.
- Neurotransmitter: A chemical substance that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse.
- Receptor: A protein on a cell that binds to a specific substance, triggering a specific response in the cell.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dopamine agonist
- Wikipedia's article - Dopamine agonist
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