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Psychotropic Substances

Meaning

Psychotropic substances are chemical agents, whether they are pharmaceutical compounds or naturally derived agents, that exert their primary therapeutic or pharmacological effects by altering specific brain functions. This alteration results in measurable changes in perception, mood, consciousness, cognition, and behavior. Within the context of hormonal health, these substances are highly relevant because they often directly or indirectly modulate the critical neuro-endocrine axes, particularly the HPA and HPG axes. Clinicians must consider their profound impact on systemic hormonal balance and metabolic function.