What is the term for a substance that increases the production of a neurotransmitter?

The term for a substance that increases the production of a neurotransmitter is "agonist." Agonists enhance the activity of neurotransmitters, either by promoting their release, facilitating their synthesis, or mimicking their effects directly at the receptor sites. This action can lead to an increased effect of neurotransmission, which can influence various physiological and psychological processes.

In contrast, antagonists work to block or inhibit the action of neurotransmitters, thereby reducing their effects. Inhibitors generally refer to substances that decrease the function or production of certain biological compounds but are not specifically aimed at neurotransmitter production. Lastly, the term "receptor" refers to the cellular proteins that bind neurotransmitters and mediate their effects but does not pertain specifically to the production of neurotransmitters themselves. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the role of agonists in the context of neurotransmitter dynamics.