Stimulants An Overview n Nature of Stimulants n

Stimulants: An Overview n Nature of Stimulants n n Most widely consumed drug in the United States Such drugs increase alertness and increase energy Examples include amphetamines, cocaine, nicotine, and caffeine Neurobiological effects vary, but all act as “sympathomimetic” agents and seem to ultimately activate the “pleasure center” of the brain

Stimulants: Amphetamine Use Disorders n Effects of Amphetamines n n n Produce elation, expansive mood, vigor, reduce fatigue Enhance the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, while blocking reuptake Such effects are followed by a “crash” (e. g. , feeling depressed and tired)

Sedative, Hypnotic, or Anxiolytic Substances n The Nature of Drugs in This Class n n n Sedatives – Calming Hypnotic – Sleep inducing (e. g. , barbiturates) Anxiolytic – Anxiety reducing (e. g. , benzodiazepines) Intoxication effects of such drugs are similar to large doses of alcohol Combining such drugs with alcohol is synergistic n All Exert Their Influence Via the GABA Neurotransmitter System

Stimulants: Cocaine Use Disorders n Effects of Cocaine n n Produce short lived sensations of elation, vigor, reduced fatigue, self-confidence Effects result from blocking the reuptake of dopamine Cocaine is highly addictive, but dependence develops slowly Cocaine use in the United States has declined over the last decade, although experimental use is on the rise again among adolescents

Stimulants: Nicotine Use Disorders n Effects of Nicotine n n Stimulates the central nervous system, specifically nicotinic acetylcholine receptors Results in sensations of relaxation, wellness, pleasure although intoxication effects are not described Nicotine is highly addictive Nicotine users dose themselves to maintain a steady state of nicotine

Stimulants: Caffeine Use Disorders n Effects of Caffeine – The “Gentle” Stimulant n n n Found in tea, coffee, cola drinks, and cocoa products Caffeine blocks the reuptake of the neurotransmitter adenosine Small doses elevate mood and reduce fatigue Used by over 90% of Americans Regular use can result in tolerance and dependence

Opiods: An Overview n The Nature of Opiates and Opiods n n Opiate – Natural chemical in the opium poppy with narcotic effects (i. e. , pain relief) Opiods – Refers to a class of natural and synthetic substances with narcotic effects Such drugs are often referred to as analgesics Examples include heroin, opium, codeine, and morphine n Effects of Opiods n n Activate body’s enkephalins and endorphins Low doses induce euphoria, drowsiness, and slowed breathing High doses can result in death Withdrawal symptoms can be lasting and severe

Hallucinogens: An Overview n Nature of Hallucinogens n n Substances that change the way the user perceives the world May produce delusions, paranoia, hallucinations, and altered sensory perception Specific neurobiological actions are unknown Examples include marijuana, LSD n Marijuana n n Active chemical is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) May produce several symptoms (e. g. , mood swings, paranoia, hallucinations) Impairment in motivation is not uncommon (i. e. , amotivational syndrome) Major signs of withdrawal and dependence do not typically occur but can in some individuals

Hallucinogens: An Overview (cont. ) n LSD and Other Hallucinogens n n n d-lysergic acid diethylamide Tolerance tends to be rapid, and withdrawal symptoms are uncommon Psychotic delusional and hallucinatory symptoms can be problematic