Ch. 5.17-19 - Sedatives, Alcohol, Marijuana

What is marijuana made from?

The leaves and buds of the Cannabis plant.

What are common effects of marijuana?

Euphoria, relaxation, distorted sensory experiences, and paranoia.

How does THC affect the brain?

THC mimics anandamide by binding to cannabinoid receptors involved in sleep and memory.

How quickly does marijuana tolerance develop?

Slowly.

What is the risk of dependence on marijuana?

Lower compared to many other drugs.

What physiological effects does marijuana have?

Stimulates hunger and reduces pain.

How does marijuana affect memory and cognition?

It impairs memory, executive functioning, and motor coordination.

How do marijuana users compare to controls on cognitive tasks?

They show worse memory, attention, and decision-making, and altered brain activity even when performing tasks successfully.

Why do marijuana-related cognitive deficits occur?

The distribution of cannabinoid receptors corresponds to affected cognitive functions.

When was marijuana legalized in Canada?

2018.

What is the legal age for marijuana use in Manitoba?

19.

What are sedatives (“downers”)?

Drugs that depress central nervous system activity.

What are effects of sedatives?

Drowsiness, relaxation, and sleep.

How do sedatives affect neurotransmission?

They increase GABA activity.

How quickly does tolerance to sedatives develop?

Quickly.

What is the dependence risk for sedatives?

High.

What are examples of sedatives?

Xanax and Valium.

What is the difference between barbiturates and benzodiazepines?

They are two classes of sedatives differing in safety and overdose risk, with barbiturates more dangerous.

What is the most commonly used drug?

Alcohol.

What are common effects of alcohol?

Euphoria, relaxation, and lowered inhibitions.

How does alcohol affect neurotransmitters?

It increases GABA activity and then stimulates endorphin and dopamine receptors.

How quickly does alcohol tolerance develop?

Gradually.

What is the dependence risk for alcohol?

Moderate to high.

What is the biphasic effect of alcohol?

Low doses are stimulating/euphoric; high doses are sedating/depressing.

What is alcohol myopia?

A narrowed focus on immediate desires and impulses while ignoring other cues.

Why are youth especially susceptible to alcohol myopia?

The frontal lobes develop slowly and remain immature for a prolonged period.