Syllabus · Current · V5 (2025) · Nervous System including autonomic and pain
H2 · Nervous System Physiology
H2.vii · Neurotransmitters
Classify and outline the major endogenous neurotransmitters of the nervous system including their role, receptor(s) and distribution.
Written examination
SAQ history
GI Pharmacology — 5-HT & Ondansetron
1 exam appearance
Classify the 5HT receptors and give examples of pharmacological agents that affect them (60% of marks). Outline the pharmacology of ondansetron (40% of marks).
45.4%
Neurotransmitters: Receptors & Functions
1 exam appearance
For each neurotransmitter listed below:
a) acetylcholine (ACh),
b) gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA),
c) noradrenaline (NorAd),
d) serotonin (5-HT). Outline the following: i) target receptors, including type and location (15% of marks per neurotransmitter), Downstream receptor mechanisms NOT required. ii) functional role(s) (10% of marks per neurotransmitter).
38.6%
Oral examination
VIVA history
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2022B · Day 3 · VIVA 7
This viva will explore your understanding of GABA receptors and anticonvulsant pharmacology. What are the different types of GABA receptors?
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2022A · Day 2 · VIVA 1
This viva will explore your knowledge of neurophysiology and pharmacology. Tell me about the structure and function of GABAA receptors.
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2022A · Day 2 · VIVA 2
This viva will explore your knowledge of neurophysiology and pharmacology. Tell me about the structure and function of GABAA receptors.
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2011B · VIVA 2
This Viva will examine elements of the acute inflammatory response and serotonin physiology and pharmacology. Q 1. Describe the mechanism of the acute inflammatory response to tissue injury. Subsequent questions explored knowledge of what cytokines are, and what major roles they play in the body, the complement system, apoptosis, immune basis of rejection of allogeneic organs, and serotonin.
Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.