Chapter 1: Pharmacological Concepts

Question 1

What is a psychoactive drug

Answer 1

any substance, natural, semi-synthetic or wholly synthesized that alters the structure or function of the mind and body

Question 2

Physical Dependency

Answer 2

is a biological change that occurs in the body at the cellular level. When the drug is not present, the individual will become physically ill (withdrawl)

Question 3

Psychological dependency

Answer 3

is the belief that a drug must be taken for the individual to be able to function -becomes central to the organization of the individuals life

Question 4

Depressants

Answer 4

produce reduction of arousal and activity to the CNS primarily through altering GABA. Used for sedation, reducing anxiety and enhancing sleep. (benzodiazepines, inhalants, antihistamines, and alcohol)

Question 5

Opiods

Answer 5

Similar to depressant but also has the ability to block pain receptors. First effect on endorphins and secondary effect on GABA. Treat pain and suppress coughs. Can be used as a pharmacological treatment

Question 6

Stimulants

Answer 6

Enhance the activity of the CNS. Enhanced mood, increased vigilance and postponement of fatigue. Can suppress appetite and used in ADHD. (cocaine, methamphetamines, decongestants, khat, betel, nicotine and caffeine.

Question 7

Hallucinogens

Answer 7

disrupt the way in which the brain perceives stimuli, creating a disconnect between the physical world and the users perception. Alters serotonin

Question 8

Psychotherapeutic agents

Answer 8

used to treat people with specific forms of mental illness, to balance and achieve return to homeostatic level.

Question 9

Cerebral Cortex

Answer 9

largest part of brain divided into two hemispheres (left and right). Controls thinking, perception and understanding language.

Question 10

Left brain

Answer 10

controls right side of the body and responsible for math, logic and problem solving

Question 11

Right brain

Answer 11

controls left side of the body, responsible for artistic expression, spacial understanding

Question 12

Cerebrum

Answer 12

divided into four lobes - frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital

Question 13

Frontal lobe

Answer 13

initiating and coordinating motor movements & higher cognitive skills. regulates attention, judgement and emotions. Long term planning, reasoning, imagination, speech, memories

Question 14

Occipital lobe

Answer 14

involved in processing and creating visual information

Question 15

Parietal lobe

Answer 15

movement, orientation, recognition, perception Integration of tactile, visual and auditory signals. contributes to touch and language

Question 16

Temporal Lobe

Answer 16

hearing, memory and emotion, language comprehension.

Question 17

Three core components of brain

Answer 17

Forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain