PCP's pharmacological action involves antagonism of NMDA receptors, thereby affecting which neurotransmitter system?

PCP's pharmacological action involves antagonism of NMDA receptors, thereby affecting which neurotransmitter system?

• A. Dopamine
• B. Glutamate
• C. Serotonin
• D. Acetylcholine

Answer: (B)

NMDA receptors are ion channels that respond to glutamate, the brain’s main excitatory neurotransmitter. PCP blocks these receptors, acting as a noncompetitive antagonist, so glutamate can’t activate the NMDA receptor channel. This directly dampens glutamatergic signaling, making the glutamate system the one most affected. While PCP can have downstream effects on other systems (like dopamine in certain circuits), the primary neurotransmitter system tied to this action is glutamate.

NMDA receptors are ion channels that respond to glutamate, the brain’s main excitatory neurotransmitter. PCP blocks these receptors, acting as a noncompetitive antagonist, so glutamate can’t activate the NMDA receptor channel. This directly dampens glutamatergic signaling, making the glutamate system the one most affected. While PCP can have downstream effects on other systems (like dopamine in certain circuits), the primary neurotransmitter system tied to this action is glutamate.