Stimulants: An Overview

Nature of Stimulants 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

Effects of Amphetamines 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

The Nature of Drugs in This Class 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

All Exert Their Influence Via the GABA Neurotransmitter System

Stimulants: Cocaine Use Disorders

Effects of Cocaine 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

Effects of Nicotine 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

Effects of Caffeine – The “Gentle” Stimulant 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

The Nature of Opiates and Opiods 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

Effects of Opiods 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

Nature of Hallucinogens 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

Marijuana 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.)

LSD and Other Hallucinogens d-lysergic acid diethylamide Tolerance tends to be rapid, and withdrawal

symptoms are uncommon Psychotic delusional and hallucinatory symptoms can

be problematic