Central Nervous System (CNS) and Drugs: Effects and Categories

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to the effects of various drugs on the central nervous system, including their classification as depressants, stimulants, and hallucinogens, along with details about their routes of administration and mechanisms of action.

CNS Depressants

Drugs that lower blood pressure and processing speed, including Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, and alcohol.

CNS Stimulants

Drugs that increase blood pressure and alertness, such as caffeine, amphetamines, and nicotine.

Hallucinogens

Substances that distort perception and sensations, affecting energy and mood based on the environment; examples include LSD, shrooms, and PCP.

Opiates

CNS depressants that lower blood pressure and have analgesic properties, including morphine and heroin.

Route of Administration

The method of taking drugs; ingestion is the slowest, while inhalation is the fastest.

Blood Brain Barrier

A selective barrier that drugs must cross to affect the central nervous system.

Dopamine Suppression

The decrease in neurotransmitter activity that can result from certain drugs.

GABA Inhibitors

Substances that increase the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that produces a calming effect.

Dose-Response Relationship

The relationship between exposure to a drug and the amount of response, indicating that the dose determines toxicity.

Risk of Poisoning

The relationship where the response to a substance can become hazardous based on the dose.