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Depressants Mechanism of Action
Depressants, such as alcohol, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines, function as agonists of the gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter system, producing a quieting effect on the brain. Their primary site of action is the GABA-gated chloride (Cl–) channel, which has multiple distinct receptor sites. These sites can bind not only to depressant drugs but also to GABA itself and to neurosteroids.
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GABA-gated Chloride Channel
A patient is administered a drug from the depressant class, resulting in a significant quieting of brain activity. Which of the following statements provides the most accurate neurochemical explanation for this effect?
A new medication is designed to treat severe anxiety. Its primary function is to increase the activity of the gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter system. Based on this mechanism, what is the most direct consequence at the neuronal level when this drug is active?