Drug Classes: Stimulants & Hallucinogens - Chapter 5

Question 1

Stimulants (Commonly Abused Drugs)

Answer 1

• Drugs that speed up the nervous system, typically enhancing wakefulness and alertness
  
  • Euphoria, increased energy, lowered inhibitions
  • Increased dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine
• Tolerance develops quickly
• High risk of dependence
• E.g., cocaine, amphetamines, ecstasy

Question 2

Physical Deterioration

Answer 2

• Hygiene neglected
• Drug cocktail often includes ingredients such as hydrochloric acid and farm fertilizer

Question 3

Cognitive Deterioration

Answer 3

• Structural abnormalities in cells of the frontal lobes
• Users develop difficulties ignoring irrelevant thoughts
  
  • Stroop test

Question 4

Hallucinogens (Commonly Abused Drugs)

Answer 4

• Produce perceptual distortions
  
  • Experiences range from euphoria to fear, panic, paranoia
  • Increased serotonin, blocks glutamate receptors
  • Tolerance develops slowly
  • Low risk of dependence
  • E.g., LSD, ketamine, DMT, psilocybin, salvia divinorum