week 8 Flashcards
What are some of the different stimulants around the world?
Khat (Cathinone)- used in Africa and the Middle East. Stems and leaves are chewed
Methcanthinone (bath salts) - Used in Russian and US. Synthesized from Khat
Betel Nuts- used in Middle East and Asia. Similar effect of caffeine or nicotine
Where is stimulant use a problem?
It is a problem throughout the world but has been particularly a problem in the US.
What are the acute effect of stimulants?
Increased energy, heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and activity. Improved concentration and alertness. Reduces appetite
What are the long term effects/consequences of stimulant use disorder?
weight loss, decreased blood flow to tissues and organs, increased heart rate and blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, irritability, paranoia, psychosis, aggression/violence, insomnia, dental erosion
What are the symptoms of stimulant withdrawal?
Anhedonia, anergia, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, vivid dreams, hypersomnia, insomnia, increased appetite, psychomotor agitation, craving.
does not typically require hospitalization or medications (unless there is psychosis)
What part of the nervous system is activated with stimulant use?
Sympathetic nervous system
What neurotransmitters are involved with stimulant use?
Dopamine and Norepinephrine (sometimes serotonin but to a lesser extent)
What is the mechanism of action of cocaine?
Increases dopamine and norepinephrine by blocking re-uptake transporters
What are the mechanism of action of amphetamines?
Directly stimulates dopamine and norepinephrine release and blocks re-uptake transporters
What are the mechanism of action of methlyphenidate (Ritalin)?
Inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine leading to increased availability of norepinephrine and dopamine at the synaptic space - same as cocaine.
What are the causes and risks of stimulant-induced psychosis?
Caused by elevated dopamine. Causes hallucinations, delusions and paranoia. Typically acute and brief but can persist for months.
What are the pharmacological effects of cocaine?
Half-life 30-90 min. Effects norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. Blocks reuptake and primarily increases dopamine
What are the pharmacological effects of amphetamines?
force the release of norepinephrine, epinephrine & dopamine, block reuptake, and inhibit metabolism of the neurotransmitters
What are the naturally occurring stimulants ?
Khat, Ephedra, Betel nut
What are most synthetic stimulants derived from?
Khat
What are the 3 major symptoms of ADHD
Excessive Motor Activity, Inattention, and Impulsivity
What is attention?
it is both the ability to maintain conscious focus AND the ability to inhibit other irrelevant information
What part of the brain is most important in maintaining focus and attention?
Prefrontal Cortex
What are the major neurotransmitters involved in attention?
Dopamine and Norepinephrine
What is the most common behavioral disorder in childhood?
ADHD 8-12% of all children
What percentage of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms into adulthood?
30-50%
When do characteristics of ADHD usually develop?
Between ages 3-6
At what age are symptoms of ADHD usually fully developed?
usually before age 12
What is the gold standard for testing ADHD?
There is no gold standard
