Depressants Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to depressant drugs, their effects, risks, and pharmacological implications.

Depressants

Drugs that reduce the activity of the central nervous system.

Barbiturates

A class of depressants that were once widely used for medical purposes, now known for their potential for addiction.

Benzodiazepines

Sedative drugs, introduced in the 1960s, considered safer than barbiturates but still carry a risk of dependence.

GHB

A naturally occurring substance used as a depressant and sometimes misused as a 'date rape' drug.

Threshold Dose

The minimum amount of a drug required to produce a desired effect.

Toxic Dose

The amount of a drug that can cause potentially lethal effects in an individual.

Psychological Dependence

A condition where a person feels compelled to use a drug due to emotional needs.

Physical Dependence

A state where the body has adapted to the drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms when usage is reduced.

GABA

An inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain that depressants enhance to produce their effects.

Sedatives vs. Hypnotics

Sedatives are used to calm or sedate while hypnotics are used to induce sleep.

Overdose Symptoms

Signs of overdose from depressants can include respiratory depression, coma, and potential death.

Pharmacokinetics

The study of how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in the body.

CNS Depressant Effects

The reduction in brain and nervous system activity that leads to relaxation and sedation.

Alprazolam

A benzodiazepine commonly known as Xanax, used for anxiety treatment.

Decoction

A method of extraction by boiling herbal or plant material to obtain its active constituents.

Addiction

A chronic condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences.

Withdrawal Management

The process of supporting an individual through the symptoms that occur when reducing or stopping substance use.

Narcolepsy

A sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks.

Anxiolytics

Medications that relieve anxiety; a category that includes many benzodiazepines.

Chronic Heavy Use

Long-term use of substances that can lead to serious health issues, such as liver damage.

Impaired Judgment

Reduced ability to make sound decisions, often resulting from drug or alcohol use.

Intoxication Symptoms

Signs of intoxication may include relaxation, fatigue, and slurred speech.

Risk-Taking Behavior

Engaging in activities that have potential adverse outcomes, often increased under the influence of depressants.

Date Rape Drug

Refers to substances like GHB that can incapacitate individuals for the purpose of sexual assault.

Respiratory Depression

A serious condition where breathing becomes inadequate due to the effects of depressant drugs.

Cognitive Impairment

Decline in cognitive functions such as memory and attention often linked with substance use.

Sociocultural Factors

Influences from societal and cultural contexts that may contribute to substance use and misuse.

Lethal Safety Margin

The range between a drug's effective dose and its toxic dose, which can be narrow for many depressants.

Dependence Treatment

The strategies and therapies employed to assist individuals in overcoming substance dependence.

Combination Drug Use

Using multiple drugs simultaneously, which can increase the risks of overdose and adverse effects.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Physical and psychological symptoms that occur when stopping or reducing intake of a drug.

Overdose Risks

The danger associated with taking a higher dose of a substance than recommended, leading to severe health consequences.