Psychoactive Drugs

• Psychoactive drugs are chemical substances used to alter one’s perception, mood, or consciousness

• Often associated with physical and psychological dependence

Depressants

Effects

• These are drugs that reduce neural activity

• Slowing body functions, “depressing” the body

Examples

• Sleeping pills

• Tranquilizers

• Alcohol

Opioids

Effects

• Depressant effect

• Pain relief

  • An agonist for endorphins

Examples

• Morphine

• Oxycodone

• Heroine

• Codeine

Stimulants

Effects

• Drugs that excite neural activity

• They speed up bodily functions, “stimulating” the body

Examples

• Caffeine

• Nicotine

• Amphetamines

• Cocaine

Hallucinogens

Effects

• Also called psychedelics

• They distort perceptions

• Evoke hallucinations

  • Sensations in the absence of sensory input

Examples

• LSD

  • Lysergic acid diethylamide

• Marijuana

  • One of many effects

  • THC is the active component