Psychoactive Drugs

Question 1

Agonists

Answer 1

A molecule that increases a neurotransmitters actions by increasing the production or release of neurotransmitters due to the mimicry of an excitatory or inhibitory effect and blocking reuptake

Question 2

Antagonist

Answer 2

A molecule that inhibits or blocks a neurotransmitters action, blocks effect of receptor site

Question 3

Depressants

Answer 3

Reduce neural activity and slow body functions, alcohol is the most commonly used and abused depressant in the world

Question 4

Alcohol

Answer 4

Acts as a disinhibitor, reducing activity in the frontal cortex and slowing neural processing.
- acts as an agonist with inhibitory GABA receptors making them more inhibitory
- disrupts memory impairing REM sleep and reduces self awareness and control
- increases nerve cell death
- can lead to alcohol use disorder

Question 5

Barbituates

Answer 5

GABA agonist- calming effects
- sedative effects from mild sedation to coma
- highly addictive and if combined with alcohol can be lethal

Question 6

Benzodiazepines

Answer 6

Drugs that lower anxiety and reduce stress (Xanax)
- depresses heartbeat and breathing
- described as safer and often prescribed

Question 7

Opioids

Answer 7

Derived from opium poppy (morphine, heroine, oxycontin, methadone)
- similar to depressants, block pain signals snd highly addictive
- agonist for endorphines
- stimulate receptor sites for endorphines

Question 8

Stimulants

Answer 8

Excite neural activity and speed body functions, increases energy and alertness

Question 9

caffeine

Answer 9

Naturally occurring mild stimulant, in high does can cause anxiety, insomnia

Question 10

Nicotine

Answer 10

Highly addictive stimulant found in tobacco products producing a slight rush, can lead to nervousness, irritability, and nausea

Question 11

Cocaine

Answer 11

Highly addictive stimulant that enters the bloodstream producing a rush. Blocks reuptake and ends in crash.

Question 12

Amphetamines

Answer 12

• Increases alertness and energy
• synthesized in laboratories to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and weight gain
• high potential for abuse

Question 13

Methamphetamines

Answer 13

(Crystal meth, rock, ice)
- faster acting, more potent/dangerous/addictive
- triggers release of dopamines leading to 8 hours of heightened energy but may lead to reduced dopamine levels after leaving users depressed
- leads to irritability, insomnia, hypertension, seizures, depression, and violent outbursts

Question 14

MDMA

Answer 14

Also known as ecstasy, a stimulant and mild hallucinogen producing feelings of intimacy, can damage serotonin production leaving a permanent deflation of mood and impairment of memory

Question 15

Marijuana

Answer 15

THC is the major active ingredient, amplifies sensitivity and lingers in body for more than a week, users may achieve high with smaller doses