Psychology: Altering Consciousness

Psychoactive Drug

A chemical substance that alters the brain, causing changes is perceptions and moods

Withdrawal

the discomfort and distress that follow discontinuing an addictive drug or behavior

Barbiturates

Drugs that depress Central Nervous System activity, reducing anxiety but imparing memory and judgment

Opioids 

Opium and its derivatives, depress neural activity and speed up body functions 

Cocaine

blocks reuptake (thus increases levels at the synapse), examples dopamine, serotonin norepinephrine

Methamphetamine

a powerful addictive drug that stimulates the Central Nervous System, with accelerated body functions and associated energy and mood changes

Ecstasy/MDMA

a synthetic stimulant and mild hallucinogen