Psychoactive Drugs

psychoactive drugs

chemical substances that mimic neurotransmitters, causing altered perception and functioning in the central nervous system

depressants

class of psychoactive drugs that slow bodily functions and suppress neural activity; often invokes a “mellow” feeling

e.g. alcohol, opiates, tranquilizers (barbiturates)

stimulants

class of psychoactive drugs that quicken bodily functions and excites neural activity; often cause mood changes and a higher feeling of self-confidence

e.g. caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines (meth)

hallucinogens

class of psychoactive drugs that distort perception and evoke sensory experiences in the absence of real sensory input

e.g. LSD, “acid”, “magic mushrooms”

agonist

chemicals that activate receptions for certain neurotransmitters, thus making the transmitters stronger

anagonist

chemicals that inhibit or oppose the action of neurotransmitters by preventing them from binding with receptors or dendrites

tolerance

the tendency for the effects of a drug to decrease with repetitive use, resulting in a need for higher doses to experience the same effects

withdrawal

physical and mental symptoms experienced when a person stops using a drug (e.g. anxiety, irritability, nausea, seizures)

dependence

the tendency for the body to require a drug to function normally

addiction

compulsive drug use despite negative consequences; caused by changes in brain chemistry