Substance Abuse Glossary – Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering all major terms introduced on Page 1 of the lecture glossary.

ADDERALL

A trademarked stimulant used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

addiction

Continued involvement with a substance or activity despite the negative consequences associated with it.

Al-Anon

An organization that offers understanding and support to the families and friends of alcoholics and addicts.

Alateen

An organization that offers understanding and support to teen-aged family members and friends of alcoholics and addicts.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

A worldwide organization known for the support it offers to alcoholics.

club drugs

Illegal substances used to enhance the experience at bars, concerts, and parties.

cocaine

An illegal, powerful, addictive stimulant, usually snorted as a powder.

compulsion

A strong, usually irresistible desire, especially one that is irrational.

controlled drug

A drug whose use and distribution is tightly regulated, including prescription and illegal substances.

anabolic steroids

Drugs that mimic the effects of male sex hormones; used to treat delayed puberty, impotence, and muscle atrophy.

Anadrol

A trademarked anabolic steroid used to treat osteoporosis and anemia and to stimulate muscle growth in undernourished or underdeveloped patients.

crack

A rock form of cocaine that is usually smoked.

dopamine

A neurotransmitter responsible for carrying messages of pleasure in the brain.

doping

Using anabolic steroids to improve athletic performance.

benzodiazepine

A central nervous system depressant used in medicines prescribed for anxiety, acute stress, panic attacks, and sleep disorders.

binge drinking

Ingesting excessive amounts of alcohol in a short period of time.

cirrhosis

A condition in which the liver is scarred; often caused by alcoholism.

Durabolin

A trademarked form of the anabolic steroid nandrolone; used to treat osteoporosis and anemia.

enabler

A person who inadvertently makes it easier for an addict to continue his or her habit.

gateway drugs

Less dangerous substances whose use may lead to future use of more dangerous drugs.

heroin

An opioid drug synthesized from morphine; used as a painkiller and as a recreational drug.

hippocampus

The area of the brain involved in learning and memory.

hydrocodone

An opioid used in medicines for moderate to severe pain relief; one of the most common prescription drugs in America and also used as a cough suppressant.