Chapter 33.4, Problem 1NV

Summary Introduction

To determine:

Definition of the terms drugs, dopamine, stimulant, depressant, tolerance, and addiction.

Explanation of Solution

Drugs: A chemical or medicine has some physiological effect when it is introduced in the body. Drugs are broadly referred to as any medicine used for treatment.

Dopamine: It is a neurotransmitter, which plays an important role in arousal, reinforcement, feeling of rewarded, motor control, sexual gratification, and motivation. This is also known as a happy hormone as it is associated with a feeling of happiness.

Stimulant: It is defined as a drug or a chemical that excites the functions of the brains and central nervous system. It induces alertness, wakefulness, elevated mood, increased motor activity and alteration in appetite.

Depressant: It is defined as a drug or a chemical that slows down the activity of the brain and central nervous system. They are used to relax the muscles and work opposite to the stimulants.

Tolerance: in terms of drug use, tolerance is defined as a decrease in response to a certain chemical (drug) with its regular use. It can be either physiological (decreased physiological response) or behavioral (decrease in the behavioral effects of the drug).

Addiction: It is defined as a chronic and relapsing condition that is characterized by the continuous seeking of a chemical or a drug despite the knowledge of its consequences and effect on the system.