Topic5_ConsciousnessPOSTY (copy)

What do psychoactive drugs influence in humans?

They impact physiological and psychological states.

What percentage of Canadians reported using psychoactive substances in 2019?

A significant percentage indicating widespread engagement.

How do psychoactive substances alter biochemical processes?

They contain chemicals that closely resemble natural brain substances.

What are the emotional effects of psychoactive drugs?

They can drastically alter emotions, perceptions, and behaviors.

Name a common stimulant and its effect.

Caffeine; it enhances alertness.

What is the definition of stimulants?

Substances that raise activity in the central nervous system.

What is tolerance in the context of drug use?

The body requires more of the drug to achieve the same effects.

What characterizes biological addiction?

The body cannot function normally without the drug.

What are agonists in pharmacology?

Drugs that enhance the effect of neurotransmitters by mimicking their function.

What effect do depressants have on the brain?

They slow down brain activity and enhance GABA activity.

How does alcohol function at low doses?

It acts as a stimulant.

What is the flushing effect in response to alcohol?

A physiological reaction due to genetic factors.

What are barbiturates typically prescribed for?

To induce sleep, but carry risks when combined with alcohol.

What are opioids known for?

Inducing relaxation and alleviating pain and anxiety.

Describe the trend of opioid overdose deaths since the 1990s.

There has been a rise associated with increased prescriptions and heroin use.

What is the main component of marijuana?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

How do MDMA and LSD affect the brain?

They primarily affect serotonin levels.

What has been linked to chronic use of marijuana?

Cognitive impairments and increased risk of psychosis.

What are hallucinogens?

Substances that cause perceptual changes and hallucinations.

What is a significant concern regarding modern cannabis strength?

Today's varieties exhibit much higher THC levels than in the past.