Question

Review the “stimulant-depressant continuum”. Then answer the following questions: a. What is the main difference in the biochemical action of drugs at the stimulant end of the continuum as opposed to the depressant end of the continuum? b. Which neurotransmitter is involved either directly or indirectly in the action of all these drugs? c. Why are some drugs placed in the "neutral" area of the continuum? Is it because they are less dangerous or less addictive? d. What is the probable result of overdosing on all of these drugs?

Answer 1

A.) Difference in biochemical action of drugs at the stimulant end and depressant end of continuum:-

At depressant end the drugs mainly slower the functioning of central nervous system, slower the heart rate and digestive functions. This results in feeling of relaxation, peace and sleepiness due to decrease in functioning of CNS.

At stimulant end the drugs usually increase the heart beat, and finctioning of CNS. They work oppositely to depressant end.

B.) NEUROTRANSMITTERS INVOLVED IN THESE DRUGS:- The neurotransmittersthat directly and indirectly involved in these drugs are:-

• Ephinephrin which involves in alertness and arousal.
• Norepinephrine act as stimulant
• Serotonin and Acetylcholine also act as stimulant.
• GABA (Gaba- AminoButyric- Acid) and Endorphins are act as depressants.

C.) WHY SOME DRUGS ARE NEUTRAL:- As some of the drugs didn't effect the body as depressant and stimulant thay act as neutral drugs. They are mainly the medical drugs that are used to cure the side effects of other drugs and these drugs are only prescribed for medical treatment purpose but if they are taken as addiction then they are also dangerous and lead to the harmful and even cause death.

D.) RESULT OF OVERDOSING:- Depressants drugs are very dangerous if taken as overdose and if taken in combination with other drugs they often produces Euphoric symptoms. Overdose of depressants slow down the breathing and heart rate to such extent that there will be improper oxygen supply to brain and lungs which can cause brain damage, coma and death. Other overdose effects are as:-

• Disorientation
• Unconsciousness
• Unresponsive to stimuli
• Bluish lips and finger nails.
• Cold and calmy skin
• Shallow or no breathing.

Stimulants overdose deaths are most often caused by the sudden heart failure, stroke, heart attack and hyperthermia. Other effects include:-

• Nausea, Vomiting
• Convulsions
• Jerky movements
• Profuse sweating
• Chills
• Rapid and fast heart beat
• Hypertension
• Hallucinations
• Aggression
• Severe aggitation
• Intense Paranoia
• Severe headaches
• Panic attacks.