Drugs & CNS

Question 1

how do recreational drugs affect the CNS

Answer 1

recreational drugs affect the central nervous system by altering neurotransmitter activity, leading to changes in mood perception, and behaviour .
These drugs can be classified as stimulants, depressants and hallucinogens, each affecting the CNS differently

Question 2

Explain how recreational drugs act as stimulants

Answer 2

Role: Stimulants enhance brain activity by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. This leads to increased alertness, energy, mood elevation
ex: Cocaine–> blocks reuptake of dopamine causing excessive stimulation of brains reward system. Heightened energy, alertness, anxiety (Addiction)
Nicotine–> Stimulates Acetylcholine receptors, increasing dopamine release. Can enhance attention but highly addictive

Question 3

negative effects of stimulants

Answer 3

Incr heart rate and bp
Long term use can lead to heart disease and mental health issue

Question 4

How depressants reduce CNS activity

Answer 4

Depressents slow down brain activity by incr affects of GABA (inhibitory neurotransmitter) leading to relaxation and drowsiness
ALCOHOL:
enhances GABA, reducing neural activity and causing relaxation
high doses impair memory and co-ordination
Heroin: binds to opiod receptors reducing pain and producing euphoria
-can lead to respiratory depression and addiction
[slowed reaction times, memory loss, addiction]

Question 5

Hallucinogins and CNS

Answer 5

Alter sensory perception and cognition by affecting serotonin levels.
LSD: Mimics serotonin leading to altered perceptions and hallucinations. unpredictable events–> paranoia
Cannabis: binds to cannabinoid receptors, affecting mood, memory, perception. Can cause relaxation but may lead to anxiety high dosage