Which type of receptor do dissociatives primarily act upon?

Dissociatives primarily act upon the NMDA receptor, which is a subtype of glutamate receptor. This receptor plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity and memory function. Dissociative drugs, such as ketamine and phencyclidine (PCP), antagonize the NMDA receptor, leading to decreased excitatory neurotransmission. This inhibition results in the characteristic dissociative effects, including alterations in perception, consciousness, and cognition.

The action on the NMDA receptor is significant because it differentiates dissociatives from other classes of psychoactive substances that may target different receptors, such as dopamine, serotonin, or GABA receptors. For example, drugs targeting dopamine receptors are primarily associated with stimulant effects and are often involved in the reward pathways, whereas serotonin receptors are implicated in mood regulation and hallucinations in some hallucinogens. GABA receptors are mainly involved in inhibitory neurotransmission and are the target for anxiolytics and sedatives. Understanding the specific action on NMDA receptors helps clarify the unique effects of dissociative substances and their therapeutic potential in conditions like depression and chronic pain.