Drug Basics

Question 1

What is a drug?

Answer 1

A drug is any chemical put into the body that changes mental state or bodily function

Question 2

Different routes a drug enters the body and it’s effects (2)

Answer 2

1. Ingestion - slowest route to the brain

2. inhalation or intravenous injection is the fastest route (most dangerous way to take the drug–may result in death)

Question 3

Length of time drug taken and its effects on the central nervous system

Answer 3

Some drugs are removed in only a few minutes, while others stay around for weeks. With any compound, it is crucial to know how long its effects will last even effects that are not noticeable

Question 4

What is Tolerance?

Answer 4

Over time, as our bodies adapt to the drug, the effects of the drug changes

Question 5

What is Withdrawal?

Answer 5

When drug use is stopped, these changes cause bodies to work abnormally once the drug is no longer present.

Question 6

Define Addiction

Answer 6

Addiction is the repetitive, compulsive use of a substance despite negative consequences to the user

Question 7

How do addictive drugs function?

Answer 7

Addictive drugs activate circuits in the brain that respond to normal pleasures, like food and sex. Every brain possesses these circuits, so every human could potentially become addicted to a drug.

Question 8

How are drug-taking habits maintained? (3)

Answer 8

Drug taking is maintained by many factors, including: 1. changes in the brain 2. the desire to experience pleasure from the drug 3. and the desire to avoid the discomfort of withdrawal

Question 9

How many different factors play a role in the development of addiction? (4)

Answer 9

1. family history 2. personality 3. mental health 4. life experience