Psychoactive drug

Psychoactive drugs, also known as psychotropic drugs, are substances that can alter the consciousness, mood, and perceptions of those who take them. They are used in the management of mental and emotional disorders, to enhance particular mental activities, in religious or spiritual rituals, or for recreational purposes. These substances interact with the central nervous system, particularly the brain where they can change brain function, resulting in temporary changes in perception, mood, consciousness and behavior<ref>Julien, Robert,

 A Primer of Drug Action, 
 Macmillan, 
 2011,</ref>.

Classes of Psychoactive Drugs

Psychoactive drugs can be classified into several categories based on their pharmacological effects:

• Stimulants: These substances increase the activity of the central nervous system. Examples include caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines, and cocaine.
• Depressants: They decrease the central nervous system activity. Examples are alcohol, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates.
• Opioids: These substances produce a sense of euphoria and are used for pain relief. Examples include morphine, codeine, and heroin.
• Hallucinogens: Hallucinogens alter perceptions, thoughts, and feelings. They include LSD, psilocybin, and mescaline.
• Cannabinoids: They alter perception and mood, examples include THC (found in marijuana) and CBD.

Risks and Regulation

Psychoactive drugs can lead to psychological and physical addiction or dependence, and their use can have serious health consequences, including death. In many parts of the world, their production, sale, and use are regulated or banned by law<ref>Schuckit, Marc,

 Recognition and management of withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens), 
 New England Journal of Medicine, 
 2016,
 Vol. 371,
 pp. 2109–2113,</ref>.

Summary

A broad term for any drug that acts on the brain and noticeably alters one’s mental state such as by elevating mood or alertness, or reducing inhibitions. Psychoactive pharmaceuticals can help control the symptoms of some neurological and psychiatric disorders. Many “recreational drugs” are also psychoactive drugs.

See Also

• Recreational drug use
• Substance abuse
• Drug addiction
• Pharmacology

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