Neuroscience and Addiction

Cirrhosis

• A late stage of scarring of the liver; one cause is alcoholism; affects liver functioning and can be life-threatening

• A condition characterized by excessive bile production

• An inflammation of the pancreas due to alcohol consumption

• A viral infection that affects the liver

neurotransmitters

• Chemical messengers that transmit messages from one neuron to another.

• Hormones that regulate mood and behavior.

• Proteins that build the structure of neurons.

• Enzymes that break down neurotransmitters in the synapse.

depressants

• Prescription drugs that speed up CNS activity; induces wakefulness and increases anxiety.

• Prescription drugs that slow the CNS activity; induces sleep, relieves anxiety and muscle spasms, and prevents seizures.

• Over-the-counter medications that enhance mood and energy levels.

• Herbal supplements that promote relaxation and improve digestion.

Opioids

• Drugs derived from the opium poppy; typically used as prescription painkillers, but abused to get high; includes heroin

• Synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of opioids

• Over-the-counter medications used for mild pain relief

• Non-narcotic pain relievers such as ibuprofen

Prescription stimulants

• Prescription drugs that slow down the activity of the CNS; causes relaxation and drowsiness

• Prescription drugs that speed up the activity of the CNS; causes a “rush”; feelings of energy and euphoria

• Over-the-counter medications that enhance sleep quality

• Illegal drugs that have no medical use

Methamphetamine

• Stimulant that speeds up CNS activity; commonly called “meth”

• Depressant that slows down CNS activity

• Hallucinogen that alters perception

• Narcotic that induces sleep

neurons

• Specialized cells used to send messages throughout the body.

• Cells that provide structural support to the brain.

• Cells that produce hormones in the endocrine system.

• Cells that are responsible for the immune response.

Hallucinogens

• Found in plants or fungi or are synthetically produced; among the oldest known group of drugs used for their ability to alter human perception and mood

• Primarily used for their stimulant effects and to increase energy levels

• Commonly prescribed for anxiety and depression

• Synthetic drugs that primarily act as pain relievers

THC

• Chemical in cannabis that causes the “high” feeling.

• A type of cannabis plant.

• A method of consuming cannabis.

• A legal term for cannabis use.

addiction

• A compulsive, chronic, physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity having harmful effects and causing symptoms upon withdrawal or abstinence.

• A temporary desire for a substance that does not lead to harmful effects.

• A social behavior that promotes well-being and health.

• An occasional indulgence in a pleasurable activity without negative consequences.