recreational drugs Flashcards
what is a recreational drug
any substance taken non-therapeutically for its effects on motor, sensory, or cognitive activities or on an emotional state
mesolimbic dopamine reward pathway
main structure of reward pathway
VTA to basal ganglia
consistently activated during rewarding situations
what does cocaine do
increases energy and boosts stamina
increases self confidence
forms of cocaine
fine white paper or crystallised powder
mostly snorted but can be smoked
cocaine can also be known as
coke, snow or sniff
effects of cocaine last…
between 15-30mins depending on how much is taken
how does cocaine work
has a binding effect like dopamine
works by blocking the reuptake process of the synapse so increases the concentration of dopamine in the synapse
amplified affect on binding to the synaptic neuron
forms of heroin
white or brow powder
usually injected straight into the bloodstream
heroin is made from
opium poppies which were used to treat pain and sleeplessness in the 1920s
effects of heroin last…
15-30mins
how does heroin work
body naturally produces opiate like substances (endorphins) so heroin binds to these same receptors.
GABA moderates amount by controlling dopamine levels, but inhibited by the bodies natural opiates. This makes you feel a lack of control over your body due to a massive flux of dopamine created in the synapse due to excess binding
amphetamines previously used in ..
WW2 in order for the soldiers to stay awake and remain alert whilst on the battlefield .
amphetamines used to treat…
behavioural conditions such as ADHD
amphetamines form
can come in many different colours such as white, pink, grey or yellow
usually in the form of powder, pills or paste taken orally
amphetamines also known as
speed or whizz
effects of amphetamine usually last
3-6hours
how do amphetamines work
shaped like dopamine so can fit into their receptors and enter the synapse in two ways.
meaning dopamine is amplified
addiction
over stimulation, damaged and desensitised receptors so need more to feel the same kind of high
olds and Milne
found there are various places in the brain where stimulation is rewarding enough that animals will stimulate them itself frequently and regularly over a period of time
weaknesses
only looks at one reward pathway
mainly animal studies used
strengths
brain scanning
