L13 - Substance Abuse & Addictive Disorders

Drug

Any substance other than food affecting out bodies or minds

Substance intoxication

Cluster of changes in behavior, emotion, or thought caused by substances; a reversible state

Substance use disorders

Maladaptive behavior patterns and reactions caused by repeated substance use

Dopamine reward pathway

Underlies the mechanism of substance use and addictive disorders

VTA

Place of synthesis for dopamine

Nucleus accumbens

Acts as the “pleasure” center of the brain

Tolerance

A biological need for greater amounts to experience the same level of effects

Withdrawal

Aversive symptoms when the substance use is discontinue

Depressants

Slow down the activity of the central nervous system (CNS)

Stimulants

Increase the activity of the central nervous system (CNS)

Hallucinogens (aka psychedelics)

Produce powerful changes primarily in sensory perception