AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Central nervous system (CNS) depressants are drugs that slow down brain activity, making them effective for treating many conditions. These drugs operate by affecting the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which leads to side effects such as drowsiness, relaxation, and decreased inhibition.

Detailed explanation-2: -GABA release into the synaptic cleft is stimulated by depolarization of presynaptic neurons. GABA diffuses across the cleft to the target receptors on the postsynaptic surface. The action of GABA at the synapse is terminated by reuptake into both presynaptic nerve terminals and surrounding glial cells.

Detailed explanation-3: -It has also been reported that antidepressants decrease the function of presynaptic serotonin-3 receptors on GABA neurons, resulting in a decrease in GABA release (Nakagawa and Ishima, 2003).

Detailed explanation-4: -GABA is the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS) (1). GABA inhibitory neurotransmission is essential in normal brain function, in neuronal activity, information processing and plasticity, and network synchronization, and in disease.

Detailed explanation-5: -Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger in your brain. It slows down your brain by blocking specific signals in your central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord). GABA is known for producing a calming effect.