List of dopaminergic drugs

Dopaminergic drugs are a class of medications that act on the dopamine neurotransmitter system in the brain. These drugs can either increase the levels of dopamine or mimic its action, and are used in the treatment of various neurological and psychiatric disorders. This article provides an overview of dopaminergic drugs, categorized by their primary action or use.

Types of Dopaminergic Drugs

Dopamine Precursors

Dopamine precursors are compounds that can cross the blood-brain barrier and are then converted into dopamine within the brain.

• Levodopa (L-DOPA)
  • Used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and dopamine-responsive dystonia.
  • Often combined with Carbidopa (as in Sinemet) or Benserazide to prevent peripheral conversion to dopamine.

Dopamine Receptor Agonists

These drugs directly stimulate dopamine receptors, mimicking the effect of dopamine in the brain.

• Pramipexole
• Ropinirole
• Rotigotine
• Apomorphine
  • Primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS).

Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors

These drugs block the reuptake of dopamine into neurons, increasing the level of dopamine available in the brain.

• Amphetamine and Methamphetamine
  • Used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.
• Cocaine
  • Not used therapeutically due to its high potential for abuse and addiction.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors

These drugs inhibit the activity of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that breaks down dopamine, thus increasing dopamine levels.

• Selegiline
• Rasagiline
  • Used as an adjunct therapy in Parkinson's disease.

Dopamine Antagonists

These drugs block dopamine receptors, reducing the effects of dopamine. They are primarily used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.

• Antipsychotics (e.g., Haloperidol, Risperidone)
  • Used in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

See Also

• Neurotransmitter
• Neuropharmacology
• Parkinson's disease
• Schizophrenia

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Note: This article provides a basic overview and does not cover all dopaminergic drugs or their complex pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics.