Available: Thursday, March 22, 2018 12:00 AM CDT – Wednesday, May 1, 2019 11:30 PM CDT.Subscribe Choose one of the drug classifications and discuss the ways in which consciousness is impaired. Briefly explain, the way the brain responds to the drug and how it will alter the conscious thought process. Discuss any additional information about the drug that might be useful to understands as it relates of states of consciousness Purchase the answer to view it
Drug Classifications and the Impairment of Consciousness
Introduction
Drug use is a prevalent issue in society, with various substances having the potential to profoundly alter consciousness. Understanding how these drugs impair consciousness is crucial for comprehending their effects on the brain and the conscious thought process. In this assignment, we will explore one drug classification and discuss the ways it impairs consciousness. Specifically, we will examine the brain’s response to the drug and how it alters the conscious thought process. Additionally, we will provide any additional information that is useful for understanding the drug’s impact on states of consciousness.
Drug Classification: Depressants
For the purpose of this assignment, we will focus on depressants as the drug classification of interest. Depressants are substances that slow down the central nervous system, resulting in relaxation, sedation, and a decrease in physical and mental activity. Common examples of depressants include alcohol, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines.
1. Brain Response to Depressants
When depressants enter the body, they primarily target a neurotransmitter known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it reduces or inhibits the activity of neurons in the brain. Depressants enhance the effect of GABA by binding to GABA receptors, effectively increasing its inhibitory action on the brain.
By enhancing the inhibitory effect of GABA, depressants dampen the overall activity of the brain. This results in a general slowing down of the central nervous system, leading to sedation, relaxation, and a decrease in cognitive function. Specifically, depressants impact the areas of the brain responsible for regulating arousal, attention, and judgment.
2. Alteration of the Conscious Thought Process
Depressants have a profound effect on the conscious thought process by slowing down the brain’s cognitive functions. As the central nervous system is depressed, the brain’s processing speed is reduced, leading to slower reaction times, impaired attention, and decreased alertness. This impairment in cognitive function manifests as a range of effects on consciousness, including:
a. Sedation and Relaxation: Depressants induce a state of sedation and relaxation, often resulting in feelings of calmness and tranquility. This altered state of consciousness may be desirable for individuals seeking stress relief or relief from anxiety.
b. Impaired Judgment: Depressants affect the brain’s ability to make rational decisions and impair judgment. This can lead to risky behaviors and poor decision-making, as individuals under the influence of depressants may have reduced insight into potential consequences.
c. Memory Impairment: Depressants can adversely affect memory formation and retrieval. The ability to encode new memories and recall existing ones is compromised, resulting in difficulty retaining information and recalling recent events.
d. Decreased Cognitive Performance: Depressants can negatively impact cognitive abilities such as attention, concentration, and problem-solving. As the brain’s activity is suppressed, individuals may experience difficulty focusing and retaining information, leading to decreased cognitive performance.
e. Emotional Blunting: Depressants can dull or dampen emotional responses. This can result in a reduced range of emotions, making it challenging for individuals to experience and express their feelings fully.
3. Additional Information
In addition to the impairments mentioned above, it is essential to consider several other factors related to the use of depressants and their impact on states of consciousness:
a. Dose-Dependent Effects: The effects of depressants on consciousness can vary depending on the dose consumed. Lower doses may induce relaxation and mild sedation, while higher doses can lead to severe intoxication, loss of motor control, and unconsciousness. The individual’s body weight, tolerance, and metabolism can also influence the drug’s effects.
b. Potential for Dependency and Addiction: Depressants have a significant potential for dependence and addiction. Prolonged use can lead to physical and psychological dependence, making it challenging to discontinue use without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. It is crucial to recognize the potential for addiction and seek appropriate support if necessary.
c. Dangerous Combining with Other Substances: Depressants should never be combined with other substances that depress the central nervous system, such as opioids or sedative-hypnotics. Combining depressants increases the risk of respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.
d. Legal Implications: The use of certain depressants, such as alcohol, is legal in many jurisdictions when consumed responsibly and within legal limits. However, operating a vehicle or engaging in activities requiring, alertness, and coordination can have legal consequences. It is crucial to be aware of any legal implications associated with the use of depressants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, depressants profoundly impair consciousness by targeting GABA receptors in the brain, resulting in sedation, relaxation, and a decrease in cognitive function. The altered conscious thought process includes impaired judgment, memory impairment, decreased cognitive performance, emotional blunting, and sedation. Understanding the effects of depressants on consciousness is crucial for promoting responsible use and recognizing potential risks and consequences associated with their use.
