Lecture on Depressants, Stimulants, Hallucinogens, and Cannabis

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, cannabis, and their pharmacological and social implications.

Barbiturates

A major class of depressants, chemical group of sedative-hypnotics, widely used and misused.

Benzodiazepines

A chemical grouping for sedative-hypnotics, introduced in the 1960s and considered 'safer' than barbiturates.

Psychological Dependence

Dependence characterized by a mental and emotional reliance on a substance, often reported with increasing prescription of benzodiazepines.

Alcohol

A common depressant with historical use and significant concerns regarding dependence and overdose.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Symptoms experienced upon cessation of a substance, often opposite to those experienced during intoxication.

Sedatives

Drugs used to treat anxiety and agitation, usually prescribed in lower doses.

Hypnotics

Drugs prescribed for the treatment of insomnia, usually in higher doses.

GABA

An inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in reducing neuron firing and the central nervous system depressant effects.

CNS Depression

A state induced by depressants leading to relaxation, fatigue, and sleepiness.

Cognitive Impairment

A mental health concern linked to depressant use, particularly with memory functions.

Drug Diversion

Concerns regarding the recreational or non-medical use of prescription depressants.

Amphetamines

A class of synthetic stimulants that act as central nervous system stimulants, often used for ADHD.

Caffeine Withdrawal Syndrome

A defining period of symptoms such as headaches and fatigue experienced after quitting caffeine.

Tobacco Act 1997

Legislation in Canada instituting restrictions and regulations on tobacco use and advertising.

Opioids

A class of drugs encompassing natural and synthetic forms with pain-relieving and sedative effects.

Naloxone

An opioid antagonist used to temporarily reverse opioid overdose.

Hallucinogens

A broad category of drugs that cause profound changes in perception, mood, and cognitive processes.

Cannabis Use Disorder

A condition characterized by chronic patterns of cannabis use that lead to significant impairment or distress.

Psychotropic Effects of THC

Effects caused by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, including euphoria and altered sensory experiences.

Drug-assisted Sexual Assault

Crimes facilitated by the use of drugs like Rohypnol and GHB, leading to increased vulnerability of victims.

Self-medication

Using drugs to alleviate psychological distress or mental health conditions.