Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions

Psychology 2200 with Brunjes at University of Virginia

About this deck

By: Camerron Resener
Created: 2011-07-30
Size: 22 flashcards
Views: 11

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Affinity

Tendency of a drug to bind to a particular type of receptor

Agonist

Drug that mimics or increases the effects of a neurotransmitter

Alcoholism (alcohol dependence)

The inability to quit drinking or to limit intake of alcohol in spite of strong intentions to do so

Amphetamine

Stimulant drug that increases the release of dopamine

Anadamide

Naturally occurring brain chemical that binds to the same receptors as cannabinoids

Antabuse

Disulfiram; drug that helps people break an alcohol habit by impairing their ability to convert acetaldehyde to acetic acid

Antagonist

Drug that blocks the effects of a neurotransmitter

Cannabinoids

Chemicals related to THC, the component of marijuana that alters experience

Cocaine

Stimulant drug that increases the stimulation of dopamine synapses by blocking the reuptake of dopamine by the presynaptic neuron

Dopamine transporter

Membrane protein that enables the presynaptic neuron to reabsorb dopamine after releasing it

Hallucinogenic drugs

Drugs that grossly distort perception, such as LSD

Methadone

Chemical similar to heroine and morphine but often given as a substitute because it can be taken orally, in which case it effects rise and fall more slowly

Methylphenidate

Ritalin; stimulant drug that increases the stimulation of dopamine synapses by blocking the reuptake of dopamine by the presynaptic neuron

Nicotine

Drug found in tobacco that, among other effects, stimulates certain acetylcholine receptors

Nucleus accumbens

Small subcortical brain area that is rich in dopamine receptors and evidently a major part of the brain's reinforcement system

Opiate drugs

Class of drugs derived from, or similar to those derived from, opium poppies

Self-stimulation of the brain

Behavior that is reinforced by direct electrical stimulation of a brain area

Stimulant drugs

Drugs that tend to produce excitement, alertness, elevated mood, decreased fatigue, and sometimes increased motor activity

2-AG

sn-2 arachindonylglycerol; chemical that is produced in large quantities by the brain and that attaches to cannabinoid receptors

Type I (Type A) alcoholism

Generally less severe type of alcohol abuse with a gradual onset and only a weak genetic predisposition; occurs about equally in men and women

Type II (Type B) alcoholism

Indicated by severe alcohol abuse with a strong genetic basis and rapid onset early in life; much more common in men

About this deck

By: Camerron Resener
Created: 2011-07-30
Size: 22 flashcards
Views: 11

About StudyBlue

“I have used this website for three exams, and I see a huge difference in my test results.”
Naj