Chapter 6

Question 1

Addiction

Answer 1

A chronic disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences. It involves changes in brain structure and function that affect self-control and decision-making.

Example sentence: The individual’s addiction to opioids led to severe health issues.

Question 2

Agonist

Answer 2

A substance that binds to a receptor and activates it, mimicking the effect of a natural neurotransmitter or hormone. Agonists can enhance or stimulate physiological responses.

Example sentence: The medication acts as an agonist by binding to the receptor and triggering a response.

Question 3

Amphetamine

Answer 3

A stimulant drug that increases the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. It is used medically to treat ADHD and narcolepsy but has a high potential for abuse.

Example sentence: Misuse of amphetamines can lead to addiction and serious health consequences.

Question 4

Antagonist

Answer 4

A substance that binds to a receptor but does not activate it, blocking the action of agonists or natural neurotransmitters. Antagonists can inhibit or reduce physiological responses.

Example sentence: Antagonists are often used to counteract the effects of certain drugs in overdose situations.

Question 5

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Answer 5

A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects daily functioning and can persist into adulthood.

Example sentence: Children with ADHD may struggle with focusing in school and completing tasks.

Question 6

Behavioral Myopia

Answer 6

A phenomenon where individuals focus on immediate rewards and ignore potential long-term consequences. It often occurs under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Example sentence: Behavioral myopia can lead to risky decision-making and dangerous behaviors.

Question 7

Competitive Inhibitor

Answer 7

A substance that competes with the natural substrate for binding to the active site of an enzyme or receptor. This can decrease the activity of the enzyme or receptor.

Example sentence: Competitive inhibitors can be used in research to study enzyme kinetics and drug interactions.

Question 8

Disinhibition Theory

Answer 8

The theory that alcohol and other substances reduce social inhibitions by affecting brain areas involved in judgment and self-control. This can lead to impulsive and risky behaviors.

Example sentence: The disinhibition theory helps explain why individuals may engage in risky behaviors when under the influence of alcohol.

Question 9

Dopamine Hypothesis of Schizophrenia

Answer 9

The theory that schizophrenia is related to dysregulated dopamine activity in the brain. Overactivity of dopamine in certain brain areas is thought to contribute to the symptoms of the disorder.

Example sentence: Research on the dopamine hypothesis has provided insights into the neurobiological basis of schizophrenia.

Question 10

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Answer 10

A range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. It includes physical, behavioral, and learning problems.

Example sentence: FASD can have lifelong consequences for individuals affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.

Question 11

Major Depression

Answer 11

A mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. It significantly impairs daily functioning and quality of life.

Example sentence: Treatment for major depression may involve therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Question 12

Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) Inhibitor

Answer 12

A type of antidepressant that prevents the breakdown of monoamine neurotransmitters (such as serotonin and dopamine). This increases their levels in the brain and helps alleviate depressive symptoms.

Example sentence: MAO inhibitors are an older class of antidepressants that are still used in certain cases.

Question 13

Psychoactive Drug

Answer 13

A substance that affects the brain and alters mood, perception, or behavior. Examples include caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and illicit drugs.

Example sentence: Many psychoactive drugs act on neurotransmitter systems in the brain to produce their effects.

Question 14

Psychomotor Activation

Answer 14

Increased physical and mental activity often induced by stimulant drugs. It can enhance alertness, energy, and performance on tasks.

Example sentence: Psychomotor activation from stimulant use can lead to improved focus and productivity.

Question 15

Psychopharmacology

Answer 15

The study of how drugs affect the mind and behavior. It involves understanding the mechanisms of drug action, therapeutic uses, and potential side effects.

Example sentence: Psychopharmacology research aims to develop safer and more effective medications for mental health conditions.

Question 16

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Answer 16

A type of antidepressant that blocks the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain. This increases serotonin levels and helps improve mood and anxiety symptoms.

Example sentence: SSRIs are commonly prescribed for depression, anxiety disorders, and certain other mental health conditions.

Question 17

Sensitization

Answer 17

An increased response to a drug following repeated use. It is the opposite of tolerance and can lead to heightened effects or increased risk of side effects.

Example sentence: Sensitization can result in stronger drug effects with lower doses over time.

Question 18

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Answer 18

A condition characterized by an unhealthy pattern of substance use leading to significant impairment or distress. It includes symptoms such as craving, tolerance, withdrawal, and inability to control use.

Example sentence: Substance use disorder is a complex condition that may require a combination of treatments for recovery.

Question 19

Tolerance

Answer 19

A state where repeated use of a substance leads to a decreased effect, requiring larger doses to achieve the same effect. It can develop with many drugs, including alcohol and opioids.

Example sentence: Tolerance to pain medication can necessitate higher doses for pain relief over time.

Question 20

Tricyclic

Answer 20

A class of antidepressant drugs named for their three-ring chemical structure. They work by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, increasing their levels in the brain.

Example sentence: Tricyclic antidepressants were among the first medications developed to treat depression.

Question 21

Wanting-and-Liking Theory

Answer 21

A theory that separates the processes of ‘wanting’ (the motivation to seek a drug) and ‘liking’ (the pleasure derived from using the drug). It helps explain addiction and the development of cravings.

Example sentence: The wanting-and-liking theory provides insight into the different aspects of substance use behaviors.

Question 22

Withdrawal Symptom

Answer 22

Physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person stops using a substance they are dependent on. Symptoms can include anxiety, tremors, nausea, and irritability.

Example sentence: Withdrawal symptoms from opioids can be intense and challenging to manage without medical support.

Question 23

Zoopharmacognosy

Answer 23

The study of how animals use natural substances, such as plants, fungi, and minerals, to self-medicate and treat illnesses. This behavior is observed in various species, including primates and birds.

Example sentence: Zoopharmacognosy research explores the potential medicinal properties of plants used by animals for health purposes.