The world of medications is potentially very confusing for someone who does not come from a medical background. As a result of the Western perspective of treatment, patients may be taking many medications. There are an overwhelming number of medical conditions, syndromes and symptoms for which patients may need medication. Medications work by interacting with the receptors of brain cells. They block, imitate or stimulate neurotransmitters. Side effects occur when a drug affects other cell receptors in addition to the one targeted. Some side effects are mild, while others can be extremely severe. Medications are grouped according to how they work or what they are used for. Where available, it is useful to have a pocketbook listing medications and their side effects. Anticonvulsant drugs reduce the abnormal firing of neurons in the brain. Antiparkinson drugs primarily work by increasing dopamine levels.