Drug Categories & Effects Flashcards

Which category of drugs commonly causes dilated pupils and increased heart rate?

Answer: Stimulants

Stimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, accelerate the central nervous system. This physiological response typically manifests as dilated pupils (mydriasis), an elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure, and heightened alertness. These effects are direct results of the drug's impact on neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.

Which drug category is most likely to cause horizontal gaze nystagmus?

Answer: Depressants

Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) is an involuntary jerking of the eyes that occurs when they gaze to the side. Depressants, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates, are known to cause HGN by slowing down the central nervous system and disrupting the brain's ability to smoothly track objects. This makes HGN a key indicator of impairment by these substances.

What effect is most commonly associated with narcotic analgesics?

Answer: Pinpoint pupils and low breathing rate

Narcotic analgesics, such as opioids like heroin or fentanyl, are central nervous system depressants. They typically cause miosis, or pinpoint pupils, due to their effect on the oculomotor nerve. Additionally, these drugs significantly depress the respiratory system, leading to a dangerously low breathing rate, which is a primary concern in overdose situations.

Which of the following is a primary indicator of hallucinogen use?

Answer: Hallucinations and altered perception

Hallucinogens, like LSD or psilocybin, primarily affect serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to profound alterations in perception, thought, and mood. The most characteristic indicators are visual or auditory hallucinations, a distorted sense of reality, and altered sensory experiences. While other effects may occur, these perceptual changes are central to hallucinogen intoxication.

Cannabis is most likely to cause which of the following effects?

Answer: Bloodshot eyes and memory loss

Cannabis, or marijuana, commonly causes bloodshot eyes due to vasodilation, an expansion of blood vessels. It also impairs short-term memory, concentration, and reaction time, leading to effects like memory loss and an altered perception of time. While it can cause some perceptual changes, severe aggression or pinpoint pupils are not typical primary effects.

Which category of drugs may result in muscle rigidity and slow responses?

Answer: Dissociative anesthetics

Dissociative anesthetics, such as PCP or ketamine, disrupt the normal perception of sights and sounds, leading to a sense of detachment from one's body and environment. They can also cause muscle rigidity, blank stares, and slow, uncoordinated movements or responses. These effects stem from their impact on NMDA receptors in the brain.