Neurotoxicity refers to the damage caused by drugs or other chemical substances to the structure and function of the nervous system, leading to reversible or irreversible impairment of neurons, glial cells, or neural signaling pathways. This toxicity may affect the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) or the peripheral nervous system, resulting in a range of consequences from mild dysfunction to severe disorders or even death. Many drugs, such as chemotherapeutic agents, certain antibiotics, and illicit substances, can cause adverse effects including memory impairment, attention deficits, tremors, ataxia, anxiety, and depression. The Neurotoxicity Database System serves as a powerful tool for research on drugs and their neurotoxic effects. It contains information on 396 drugs known to induce nervous system-related adverse reactions, systematically documenting their chemical names, CAS registry numbers, drug categories, clinical indications, and potential side effects. Additionally, it describes the mechanisms of neurotoxicity, which are complex and may involve glutamate excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and more. This database is continuously updated and serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, helping them understand the mechanisms of neurotoxic drugs and reduce the occurrence of drug-induced neurological adverse effects. By providing early warnings, it assists clinicians in making informed decisions, enabling early detection and intervention to ensure patient safety.
