Health Science Chapter 23: Drugs

Drug Classification and Effects

• Medicines are classified into four categories: prevent disease, fight pathogens, relieve pain, maintain/restore health.
• Three types of side effects: additive interaction, synergistic effect, antagonistic interaction.
• Additive interaction occurs when two medicines positively work together.
• Synergistic effect results in a greater impact when medicines are taken in combination.
• Antagonistic interaction happens when one medicine reduces or cancels the effect of another.

Types of Medicines

• Prescription medicines require a doctor’s written approval for use.
• Over-the-counter medicines can be purchased without prescriptions.
• Vaccines stimulate an immune response through preparation introduced into the body.
• Antibiotics destroy disease-causing microorganisms while protecting the patient.

Substance Abuse and Consequences

• Substance abuse is the improper use of chemicals for nonmedical purposes.
• Physical consequences include damage to the brain, heart, and lungs.
• Mental consequences can cloud reasoning, diminish virtues, and remove guidance for behavior.
• Drug abuse affects society through increased drug-related crime and economic costs of approximately $160 billion annually.

Drug Effects on the Body

• Marijuana raises dopamine levels, influencing mood and behavior.
• Inhalants depress the central nervous system, impacting bodily functions.

Types of Drugs and Their Impact

• Stimulants (e.g., nicotine, coffee) speed up the central nervous system.
• Depressants (e.g., alcohol, Rohypnol) slow down the central nervous system.
• Designer drugs are synthetic substances mimicking hallucinogens and other dangerous drugs.

Psychological and Physiological Dependence

• Euphoria is the intense feeling of well-being often sought with drug use.
• Psychological dependence involves the belief that a drug is necessary for well-being or functioning.
• Physiological dependence occurs when the body has a chemical need for a drug.
• Addiction includes both psychological and physiological dependencies on substances.

Drug Regulation and Treatment

• Drug-free school zones are areas where selling drugs incurs severe penalties, to discourage drug-related activities near schools.
• Drug treatment facilities focus on helping individuals adjust to life without drugs.
• Support groups offer long-term moral support for individuals recovering from addiction.

Risks and Illegal Drugs

• The risks of using steroids include expulsion from competition, fines, and potential jail time.
• Illegal drugs are prohibited substances that cannot be manufactured, possessed, or sold.
• Illicit drug use refers to using or selling substances that are illegal or not permitted.

Additional Concepts

• Side effects are unintended reactions to medications.
• Overdose can lead to strong and sometimes fatal reactions from excessive drug intake.
• Factors influencing drug use include peer pressure, family influences, and media portrayals.

Explore the key concepts of Chapter 23 related to drugs and their classifications. This quiz covers different types of medicines, their side effects, and interactions. Test your understanding of how medications can help prevent disease and maintain health.