Amphetamines

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering vocabulary and key concepts from the lecture on drug policy, psychoactive substances, and their neurobiological effects.

Anti-drug Abuse Act

A law passed in October 1986 to combat drug abuse, emphasizing penalties.

Fair Sentencing Act of 2010

Legislation that decreased the punishment differential between crack and powder cocaine.

Crack Cocaine vs Powder Cocaine

5 grams of crack is treated equivalently to 500 grams of powder cocaine before the Fair Sentencing Act.

Cocaine usage trends

Cocaine has transitioned from a celebrated drug among the elite to one vilified due to its association with 'undesirables'.

Non-pharmacological factors

Elements such as race that influence drug policy beyond the drug's chemical effects.

Freud's example (Early 20th Century)

Freud's advocacy for cocaine use reflects early societal views on the substance.

USSC & Obama example (Early 21st Century)

Referencing changes in drug policy and perspectives during Obama's presidency.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) - DSM-5 Symptoms

A diagnostic criterion including symptoms occurring within a 12-month period.

Craving

A strong desire or urge to use a substance.

Tolerance

A condition characterized by the need for increased amounts of a substance to achieve the same effect.

Withdrawal

Symptoms that occur upon cessation of a substance after heavy or prolonged use.

Amphetamines

A class of stimulant drugs used primarily to treat ADHD and narcolepsy.

Neurobiological effects of amphetamines

Includes stimulation of monoamine activity and blocking of reuptake of neurotransmitters.

Free radicals

Highly reactive molecules that can cause cellular damage and death.

Acute effects of amphetamines

Increased blood pressure and heart rate, euphoria, increased alertness.

FDA-approved uses for Adderall

Used primarily for Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

Lisdexamfetamine

Brand name Vyvanse, approved for ADHD and binge eating disorder.

d-amphetamine vs l-amphetamine

Adderall contains a mixture of both in a 3:1 ratio.

Military use of amphetamines

Amphetamines are used in military settings to combat fatigue.

Methamphetamine (MA) uses

Approved for ADHD and obesity.

3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)

Known as Ecstasy, with potential future approval for PTSD treatment.

Chronic use effects

Continued use of amphetamines may lead to significant biological and behavioral changes.

Psychological problems from substance use

Continued use despite knowledge of issues exacerbated by the substance.

Important activities reduction

Giving up major social, occupational, or recreational activities due to substance use.

FDA

Food and Drug Administration, responsible for approving medications.

Intranasal administration

A route of substance administration through the nasal cavity.

Half-life

The time taken for the concentration of a drug in the body to reduce to half its peak value.

Amphetamine-related neurotoxicity

Cellular damage caused by excessive monoamine activity.

Euphoria

An intense feeling of happiness or well-being.

Stimulants and neurotransmitters

Stimulants like amphetamines affect neurotransmitter systems, enhancing alertness.

Sympathetic nervous system effects

Increased heart rate and blood pressure due to stimulant usage.

DSM-5 diagnostic criteria

Guidelines for diagnosing substance use disorders based on symptom presence.