Psychoactive Drugs

Neurotransmitters

Released from the sending neuron to travel across the synapse

Lock and Key Mechanism

Neurotransmitters binding to the receptors of the receiving neuron

Agonist

Chemical that excites the action

Antagonist

Chemical that blocks the action

Psychoactive Drug

A chemical substance that alters perceptions and moods

Tolerance

Repeated exposure to a drug and the drugs effect lowers

Addiction

Compulsive drug craving

Withdrawal

The discomfort that follows after discontinuing an addictive drug

Physical Dependence

The body’s response to the drug’s absence

Depressants

Drugs that slow reduce neural activity and slow bodily functions

Barbiutates

Depresses the activity of the central nervous system

Opiates

Depresses neural activity, temporarily lessening anxiety and pain

Stimulants

Excite neural activity and speed up bodily functions

Hallucinogens

Psychdelic drugs that distort perceptions and evoke sensory images