psychoactive drugs-marijuana aiden yoon

Psychoactive drugs

Chemicals that change perceptions and moods.

Substance abuse disorder

Continued substance use despite life disruption or physical risk; includes indicators like hazardous use and hard time regulating.

Tolerance

Diminished effect with regular drug use, requiring more for the same effect.

Withdrawal

Discomfort and distress following the stopping of a drug.

Physical dependence

Body’s need for a drug, characterized by withdrawal symptoms.

Psychological dependence

Emotional need for a drug, often for stress relief.

Blood-brain barrier

Protective filter that prevents harmful substances from reaching the brain.

Synergistic effect

When drugs interact to amplify each other’s effects.

Depressants

Drugs that reduce/slow down neural processes in the central nervous system.

Alcohol

A depressant that slows neural processing, disrupts memory, and increases risky behavior.

Barbiturates

Depressants that reduce anxiety but impair memory and judgment.

Opioids

Depressants like heroin and morphine that reduce pain but are highly addictive.

Anxiolytics (tranquilizers)

Drugs that reduce anxiety, e.g., tranquilizers, valium, ketamine.

Stimulants

Drugs that speed up central nervous system processes; opposite of depressants.

Caffeine

A mild stimulant that increases alertness and reduces adenosine.

Nicotine

A stimulant that increases heart rate and arousal but decreases appetite.

Cocaine

A powerful stimulant producing temporary euphoria and energy.

Amphetamines/meth

Stimulants that increase dopamine and energy but are addictive.

Ecstasy (MDMA)

A stimulant and mild hallucinogen that increases serotonin and social intimacy.

Hallucinogens

Psychedelic drugs that can distort perception, thoughts, and feelings.

Near-death experience

Altered state of consciousness reported after close brushes with death.

LSD

A potent hallucinogen that distorts perceptions and causes hallucinations.

Marijuana (THC)

A mild hallucinogen that alters mood perception and coordination.