ava is considered to be a form of ‘herbal’ valium. There are several ways in whi
ID: 289925 • Letter: A
Question
ava is considered to be a form of ‘herbal’ valium. There are several ways in which it is believed to have its anxiety-reducing effects. For instance, it is speculated that in the amygdala, a major part of the anxiety/fear system, kava works to 1) enhance binding at GABA receptors, 2) block the re-uptake of norepinephrine, and 3) decrease the activity of monoamine oxidase.
a) why would enhancing binding at GABA receptors decrease anxiety?
b) Norepinephrine is usually thought of as ‘endogenous amphetamine’. Amphetamine often produces anxiety by exciting neurons! How is it possible that increasing norepinephrine in the amygdala actually decreases its activity (and thus decreases its anxiety)? Explain. (hint: think of receptor subtypes
) c) What is the significance of Kava blocking the re-uptake of nor-epinephrine and decreasing the activity of monoamine oxidase on it’s behavioral profile (i.e., the effects it has on anxiety or depression)? Briefly explain. d) If you go online to look up the side effects of kava, you’ll find the following: Higher doses and long term use can lead to hypertension, shortness of breath, mild GI symptoms, enlarged pupils, and possible pulmonary hypertension. Assume that kava acts on the body in a similar way as it does in the brain. Please explain the side effects profile.
Explanation / Answer
1 GABA receptors release the chemicals or ions that stimulate anxiety and fear etc ,hence binding in them reduced anxiety.
2 Nor adrenaline and adrenalin are flight or flight harmones released during stress by exciting neurons.so by blocking the reuptake of noradrenalin reduces anger and stress.
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