Psychotropic Drugs

Definition

Psychotropic drugs are medications that affect brain chemistry to alleviate symptoms of psychological disorders. They can alter mood, perception, consciousness, cognition, or behavior by targeting specific neurotransmitters in the brain.

Related terms

Antidepressants:

Medications used to treat depression by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin.

Antipsychotics:

Medications used for managing psychotic symptoms like hallucinations or delusions by blocking dopamine receptors.

Anxiolytics: Medications prescribed to reduce anxiety symptoms by depressing central nervous system activity.