Psychoactive drugs and neurotransmitters

AP Psych

Heroin

A highly addictive opioid derived from morphine, often used recreationally for its euphoric effects. Heroin can lead to severe physical dependence and numerous health risks.

Mimics endorphins

Cocaine

A powerful stimulant drug derived from coca leaves, known for its intense euphoric effects and potential for addiction. Cocaine increases dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine levels in the brain, leading to heightened energy and alertness.

inhibits the reuptake of dopamine in the brain, resulting in prolonged pleasurable sensations.

significant crash after drug dissipates

Nicotine

A highly addictive stimulant found in tobacco products, nicotine stimulates the release of dopamine, creating pleasurable effects and leading to dependence.

mimics acetylcholine in the body, stimulates skeletal muscles and increases autonomic functions like heart rate

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in muscle contraction, memory, and learning. Acetylcholine is involved in transmitting signals between nerve cells and muscles, affecting both voluntary and involuntary functions.

Methamphetamine

A powerful central nervous system stimulant that increases the release of dopamine, leading to intense euphoria, increased energy, and potential for addiction. Methamphetamine can have severe neurotoxic effects on the brain.

Prozac

An antidepressant medication that increases serotonin levels in the brain by inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.

MDMA

A psychoactive drug that increases the release of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, commonly associated with feelings of empathy, emotional closeness, and enhanced sensory perception.

Alcohol

A depressant that affects the central nervous system, leading to relaxation, impaired judgment, and decreased motor coordination. Chronic use can result in addiction and various health issues.

boosts GABA

LSD

A potent hallucinogenic drug that alters perception, mood, and cognitive processes by acting primarily on serotonin receptors in the brain.

Marijuana

A psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant, known for its effects on mood, memory, and appetite, primarily through its interaction with cannabinoid receptors.

mimics anandamide and binds to cannabinoid receptors, allowing more dopamine to flow out

Botox

A neurotoxic protein used for cosmetic and medical purposes, derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, that temporarily paralyzes muscles by blocking acetylcholine release.

Thorazine

An antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and severe behavioral problems by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain.

Anandamide

A naturally occurring cannabinoid in the brain that binds to cannabinoid receptors, influencing mood and appetite.

Oxycodone

A prescription opioid used to relieve moderate to severe pain by binding to opioid receptors in the brain.

Fentanyl

A powerful synthetic opioid used medically to treat severe pain, often associated with cancer patients, and known for its high potency and risk of overdose.

Caffeine

A central nervous system stimulant that temporarily wards off drowsiness and restores alertness by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain.

adenosine

A neurotransmitter that promotes sleep and relaxation by inhibiting neuronal activity, caffeine acts as an antagonist to adenosine receptors, leading to increased alertness.

melatonin

A hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness, promoting sleepiness.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, and motor control, often associated with feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that contributes to mood regulation, appetite control, and sleep, often linked to feelings of well-being and happiness.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter that plays a key role in the body's stress response, influencing attention, focus, and arousal. It is also involved in regulating mood and anxiety.

THC

A psychoactive compound found in cannabis that interacts with the endocannabinoid system, affecting mood, memory, and appetite.

mild hallucinogen that can produce altered perceptions and euphoria. some therapeutic uses

Valium

A benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures, known for its calming effects and potential for dependency.

benzodiazepine

a class of psychoactive drugs that enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, leading to sedation and reduced anxiety.