Psychopharmacology of Alcohol and Drugs

After you have completed the reading, and without reviewing your classmates' responses, post your initial response to the following Discussion. Your post should be at least 400-450 words in length and should extend the discussion of the group supported by your course materials and/or other appropriate resources.

After you have submitted your initial post, review some of your classmates' posts and respond to at least two of your classmates. Refer to your Discussion Board Rubric in your Syllabus for specific grading explanation.

Discussion

Select one stimulant and one depressant drug from the list that follows. Then, use those to respond to the discussion question below. Use your text and any other listed resource for research.

Drug List

Stimulants: cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, ecstasy

Depressants: Rohypnol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, alcohol

*Note: feel free to select a specific drug from these categories (e.g. benzodiazepine= valium)

Explain the effects of stimulants on the brain and body. How does the stimulant that you selected change how someone feels/thinks? Discuss how the specific drug is used and why someone might use it.

Explain the effects of depressants on the brain and body. How does the depressant that you selected change how someone feels/thinks?

Why would someone choose to use a depressant?

Use one of the websites listed below to research one of the drugs that selected (either the stimulant or depressant). Who is most at risk for becoming addicted to this drug? What did you learn about this drug that you did not already know?
Websites:

Erowid: erowid.com
National Institute for Drug Abuse: http://teens.drugabuse.gov/