5 Classes of Drugs Flashcards

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.