Addiction and drugs of abuse Flashcards
What is the psychoactive component in cannabis?
THC
Binds to CB1 receptors
(Leads to an indirect dopamine release)
How long does cannabis remain in the body?
Lipid soluble so remains in system for longer
Days in infrequent use / weeks in chronic use
What are the psychological effects of cannabis?
Relaxation
Euphoria
Altered perceptions
Irritability
Paranoia
What are the physical effects of cannabis?
Dry mouth
Dry eyes
Tachycardia
Hunger
What are the chronic / adverse effects of cannabis?
Low motivation
Depression
Anxiety (major factor in perpetuation of cycle of use)
Psychosis
Associated tobacco risks
What effects does MDMA have on the brain?
Blocks SEROTONIN reuptake so increases quantity of free serotonin at synapse
Increases dopamine (reward, pleasure) and noradrenaline (stimulant)
What are the psychological effects of MDMA?
Euphoria
Increased EMPATHY towards others
Increased energy
Altered perceptions eg SYNAESTHESIA
What are the physical effects of MDMA?
Hyperthermia
Dry mouth
MYDRIASIS
Hypertension
Tachycardia
BRUXISM (clenched / grinding jaw)
What are the chronic / adverse / come down effects of MDMA?
COME DOWN: anxiety, low mood, low energy
ADVERSE: low mood, anxiety, overdose, HYPONATRAEMIA secondary to water intoxication –> seizure –> DEATH
What effect do amphetamines have on the brain?
DISRUPTS STORAGE OF NEUROTRANSMITTERS such as dopamine, serotonin and noradrenaline in synaptic vesicles
Leads to increased amounts due to transporters running in reverse –> STIMULANT effect
What are the physical effects of amphetamines?
TACHYCARDIA
Hypertension
Increased resp rate
DECREASED HUNGER + NEED FOR SLEEP
What are the chronic / come down / withdrawal effects of amphetamines?
COME DOWN: low mood, lethargy
CHRONIC: psychosis, depression, anxiety, dependence
WITHDRAWAL: cravings, low mood, increased sleep, anhedonia
What effects does LSD have on the brain?
Binds to 5-HT receptors causing serotonin release
ALTERS SHAPE of receptor to form a stronger bind –> LONGER half-life and effect
Increased levels of dopamine and glutamte
What are the psychological effects of LSD?
Can vary
Altered perceptual states (synaesthesia, dissolution)
Visual and auditory hallucinations
What are the physical effects of LSD?
Mild tachycardia
Mild hyperthermia
Mydriasis