CRIM:3250 Mid-Course Exam #2 Study Guide

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to CNS depressants, alcohol, narcotics, and stimulants as outlined in the lecture notes.

CNS depressant

A psychoactive drug that decreases brain activity and can lead to sedation, sleep, or unconsciousness.

Sedative effect

The calming effect that reduces anxiety and induces relaxation.

Hypnotic effect

An effect that induces sleep.

Anesthetic effect

An effect that causes unconsciousness.

Synergistic effect

When combined drugs amplify each other's effects, which can be very dangerous.

Barbiturates

A type of CNS depressant that has medical uses for sleep disorders and anesthesia but has a low margin of safety.

Benzodiazepines

A class of drugs like Valium and Xanax used for anxiety, sleep, and seizures, with a higher margin of safety compared to barbiturates.

Tolerance

A condition where increased doses of a drug are needed to achieve the same effect due to previous exposure.

Alcohol dehydrogenase

An enzyme in the liver that helps break down alcohol.

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)

A measurement of the amount of alcohol in a person's bloodstream.

Alcohol Use Disorder

A medical condition characterized by an inability to control drinking and experiencing negative consequences.

Narcotic

A pain-relieving drug that can be derived from opium.

Agonist

A substance that activates receptors to produce a biological response.

Antagonist

A substance that blocks receptors and prevents a biological response.

Speedball

A dangerous drug combination of heroin and cocaine.

Methamphetamine

A potent stimulant that is stronger than amphetamines, known for causing extreme energy and addiction.

Cocaine

A powerful stimulant drug that can cause euphoria and increased energy but is highly addictive.

Crack cocaine

A form of cocaine that is smoked and produces a stronger and faster high compared to powder cocaine.

Withdrawal

The symptoms experienced when reducing or stopping intake of a drug, which can be severe for many substances.

Opiate

A natural substance derived from the opium poppy, such as morphine and heroin.

Opioid

A synthetic or semi-synthetic drug that mimics the effects of opiates.