Strychnine exerts its toxic effects by acting as an antagonist of the glycine receptor, which is primarily located in the spinal cord and brainstem. Glycine is an important inhibitory neurotransmitter; by blocking its receptors, strychnine leads to an increase in neuronal excitability. This results in severe muscle spasms, hyperreflexia, and convulsions. The excessive stimulation of muscles can lead to respiratory failure, which is often the cause of death in severe cases of strychnine poisoning.
