Basics of Addiction Flashcards
Neurotransmitters
referred to as the body’s chemical messengers. Used by the nervous system to transmit messages between neurons or from neurons to muscles.
Dopamine
Neurotransmitter, sending signals from the body to the brain. Creates feelings of pleasure and reward, which motivates repetitious specific behaviors. Found in regions that regulate movement, emotion, motivation, and pleasure.
Serotonin
Neurotransmitter (also considered a hormone by some) used to send messages between nerve cells. Regulates mood, appetite, digestion, is a precursor to melatonin and helps regulate sleep, and the body clock.
Blackout
Phenomenon caused by the intake of any substance or medication in which long term memory creation is impaired, therefore causing a complete inability to recall the past.
GABA
Naturally occurring amino acid that works as a neurotransmitter in your brain. Blocks or inhibits certain brain signals and decreases activity in your nervous system.
GABA Receptor
Protein in your brain when attached to GABA it produces a calming effect. Can help with feelings of anxiety, stress, and fear.
Synapse
A structure that permits a neuron (nerve cell) to pass an electrical or chemical signal to another cell (neural or otherwise).
Genetic:
Of or relating to genes or hereditary.
Hereditary
Genetic factor that is able to be passed on from parent to child.
Predisposition
An increased likelihood of developing a particular disease based on a person’s genetic makeup.
Environmental
Relating to or arising from a person’s surroundings.
DNA
Nucleic acid that carries the genetic information in the cell.
Disease (1)
Pathological condition with an identifiable group of signs or symptoms.
Disease (2)
A condition or tendency society regards as abnormal and harmful.
Concept
A general idea derived or inferred from specific instances or occurrences. Something formed in the mind: a thought or notion.
Recovery
A return to a normal state of mind or strength.
Relapse
To fall or slide back into a formal state. To regress after partial recovery.
Chemical
A drug, especially an illicit or addictive one.
Abuse
To use wrongly or improperly; misuse; identified by significant negative consequences
Dependency
Identified by increased tolerance and the presence of withdrawal symptoms
Primary
First or highest in rank
Addiction
A chronic, relapsing disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite serious adverse consequences, and by long-lasting changes in the brain.
Barbiturates
Sedative-hypnotics, a type of central nervous system (CNS) depressant used to promote sleep (usually in surgical procedures), treat insomnia, seizures, and headaches.