5 Classes of Drugs Flashcards

Study Notes

Drug Classifications

A drug is a substance that alters body functions and is distinct from food.
Stimulants increase central nervous system (CNS) activity, potentially enhancing alertness and energy.
Depressants decrease CNS activity, often inducing relaxation and reduced anxiety.
Hallucinogens affect perception, altering sensory experiences and perceptions of reality.
Narcotics provide calming and sedative effects, often used for pain relief.
Inhalants are substances inhaled to produce psychoactive effects, typically delivering a quick high.

Drug Types

Synthetic drugs are artificially created in laboratories, having no natural counterpart.
Semi-synthetic drugs start with natural substances but are chemically altered by humans to modify their effects.
Natural drugs occur naturally in the environment and are often derived from plants or organic sources.

Drug Dependency and Effects

Addiction refers to an uncontrollable dependence on a drug, leading to compulsive behavior.
Tolerance is the phenomenon where increasing doses of a drug are needed to achieve the same effect due to physiological adaptation.
The Reward Pathway involves the brain's release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin, triggered by drugs, leading to feelings of euphoria or a "high."

Examples of Drug Classes

Depressants include PCP, Ketamine, Heroin, Alcohol, and Ecstasy, often associated with relaxation and pain relief.
Stimulants consist of Cocaine, Ecstasy, and Methamphetamine, linked to heightened energy and alertness.
Narcotics examples are Heroin, PCP, and Ketamine, primarily used for pain management.
Hallucinogens include LSD, Psilocybin, Peyote, and Mescaline, known for altering perception and cognitive processes.
Inhalants such as Nitrous oxide, gasoline, and Sharpie are primarily used for their fast-acting effects.

Description

Test your knowledge about the five primary classes of drugs with these flashcards. Each card includes a key term and its definition, covering stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, narcotics, and inhalants. Perfect for students learning about drug classifications in a health or pharmacology course.