Psychoactive Drugs Flashcards
Psychoactive Drugs
Alter perception and mood
Tolerance
The result of the brains neuroadaption to the drug (ex. a person who drinks frequently is less likely to get drunk quicker than a person who doesn’t drink often)
Physiological Dependence
Physical need for the drug
Psychological Dependence
Mental Need for the drug
What are the kinds of psychoactive drugs?
Stimulant, depressants, and Hallucinogens
Addiction
(Hypothalamus) Craving and use despite of the negative consequences
Depressants
Tranquilizers, Opiates
Opiates
Opium, Morphine, Heroin, Mehodone
Opium
Mimics effects of brains endogenous endorphines
Stimulants
Caffeine, Nicotine, Cocaine, Crack, Methamphetamine, MDMA (Ecstasy)
Nicotine
Stiumlant that diminishes appetite, boosts energy, reduces sensitivity to pain
Methamphetamine
Triggers release of dopamine
MDMA (Ecstasy)
Releases serotonin & blocks serotonin reuptake; overuse damages serotonin- producing neurons which can lead to permanent depression
Hallucinogens
LSD,Marijuana
Why addiction?
Not well understood, perceived peer behavior, clear support for heritability (ex. an adoptive child whose biological parents were alcoholics is also an alcoholic.)
