Unit 1.3 B: The Neuron and the Neural Firing: Substance use disorders and Psychoactive Drugs

Psychoactive Drugs

Alters communication of neurotransmitters, either by mimicking, blocking, or enhancing neurotransmitters (caffeine, alcohol, cocaine, etc)

Tolerance

The need to increase dosage to maintain a therapeutic drug effect

Physical dependence

Biological adaptation where by a dose reduction or cessation will result in a withdrawal reaction

Addiction

Behavioral response where a person, despite adverse consequences, seeks & develops compulsive behaviors to obtain & consume drugs

Withdrawal

Includes a variety of negative symptoms experienced when drug use is discontinued

Depressant

a psychoactive drug that slows down the central nervous system and reduces neural activity

Stimulant

a psychoactive drug that increases activity in the central nervous system, boosting alertness and energy