title: Drugs and the sleep-wakefulness continuum.
abstract: The circadian cycle of sleep and wakefulness in humans is controlled by the activity of many neurotransmitters. Studies of the effects of drugs on the central nervous system have elucidated some of the mechanisms that may be involved. Some transmitters are concerned with the basic control of sleep and wakefulness, influencing both alertness during the day and the pattern of nocturnal sleep. On the other hand, there are other transmitters that appear to be concerned primarily with the manifestation of wakefulness and vigilance, without a direct role in the process of sleep.
authors.affiliation: Royal Air Force Institute of Aviation Medicine, Farnborough, Hampshire, U.K.
authors.forename: P A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Pascoe
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000502:physiology*; D012890:Sleep / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D014851:Wakefulness / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents