Abstract The paper examines how schizophrenia and the induction of amphetamines impact the human brain in much the same way. For the purpose of this study the paper analyses eight representative journal articles. The general agreement among the articles is that amphetamines impact the neuron-chemical functioning of the brain in much the same as organic brain disorders such as schizophrenia. The paper also suggests that the depth and range of research in this important area still leaves unresolved questions and that more research examining humans themselves, and not laboratory animals, should be pursued where possible and where ethical.
From the Paper "For many years, experts have known about how the neuro-chemical features of individuals reacting to amphetamine induction and the neuro-chemical features of individuals suffering from schizoid psychosis are similar. This paper will review the available literature to divine just what some of these similarities are. As part of this process, however, the following paper will necessarily start with an overview of the testing that has been done on subject animals (principally rats) which have been exposed to amphetamine induction. The reason for this is not only because there appears to be a relative dearth of clinical studies carried out on humans, but also because it has been studies performed on laboratory animals which have provided much of the knowledge we presently possess on this topic."
Abstract The paper explains that attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are treated by amphetamines. It states that these amphetamines have become popular as recreational drugs. The paper explains the effects of using prescription stimulants on the body and especially the brain. The writer discusses how the college environment is often the first time young adults have some freedom and that they use this freedom to explore things that may have been restricted in the past. It discusses how peer pressure can lead to drug use and abuse. In conclusion, the writer states that the use of amphetamines must be controlled, not only because it is illegal, but because the individuals using it are all relatives or friends to someone in the world.
From the Paper "Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are behavioral disorders affecting attention span, impulse control, and self-discipline. They are usually associated with children, although adults can suffer from the same disorders. Typically medicated with psycho stimulants such as Adderall or Ritalin (mixed salt amphetamines and methylphenidate) - much concern is placed over these drugs due to problems such as the illicit use of these prescription medications (McCabe, Knight, Teter, and Wechsler 96). A major demographic who abuse or illegally obtain these drugs are undergraduate and graduate school students (McCabe, Knight, Teter, and Wechsler 103). Adderall and Ritalin are becoming popular as recreational drugs on college campuses. The drugs are being used at parties and clubs, where they are combined with other drugs such as alcohol, ecstasy, or other illicit drugs to enhance the effects. Another function these drugs serve on college campuses is as a study aid to increase students' attention spans and prolong the onset of sleep in order to do all-night study sessions. The college habitat is a breeding ground for the prominent use of various drugs and other illegal activities. Being away from parental supervision and become an independent allows students to explore new paths of life such as the use of illegal drugs. Through interaction between friends and peers the ability to network these drugs to others comes without any difficulty. Access to stimulants such as Adderall is not a problem for many and is something that is even more accessible and used when midterms and finals roll around. A competitive state of mind is something that is drilled into the minds of many students who want to achieve the best and pursue professional careers in various fields of work. These students are the ones that will go by any means necessary to achieve this perfection even if it is illegal and hazardous to their health and well being. Though, this is becoming more common around campuses and universities around the country it is a matter that is pertinent to be made aware of. When students freely self-administer these stimulants they are putting themselves at possible health risks including death. Through knowledge and awareness we can educate future students to be more cautious and be more conscious when doing illicit drugs. It is by this means we can make sure for the future generations to come of how important it is to be aware of the dangers involved in taking prescription drugs illicitly and the consequences that could result from them. Raising people's awareness should extend beyond the ramifications of health and psyche, but for the pain and agony they will cause to family and friends if either injured or harmed from taking the drug."
Abstract Attention Deficit Disorder, commonly referred to as ADD, affects a significant percentage of the population. In recent years, the media has zeroed in on the debates surrounding the use of amphetamines as a treatment option for the disorder, especially for children. This paper examines a research study that discusses the use of amphetamines and the effectiveness of this treatment.
From the Paper "The study concluded that dosing once a day with an amphetamine medication may be effective in controlling the symptoms of ADHD.
While the results indicate that the use of amphetamine, in particular Adderall, is useful and effective for the control of symptoms of ADHD, it did not measure the impact that family structure had on the results. Genetic links to ADHD have been proven and it is possible that the success rate was also affected by whether or not the parents are also ADHD and how that affects the family structure, and support of the ADHD child."
Abstract This paper discusses in detail the psychological effects of drugs and alcohol on the human brain and how those effects play a role in the overall psychological constitution of the user/addict. The topics included in this paper include a brief yet detailed overview of substance dependence in conjunction with the evidence for psychological dependence as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-IV and other pertinent scientific sources. In addition, a number of recommendations for future research on the psychological effects of drugs and alcohol are discussed at the conclusion of this paper.
From the Paper "The study of the psychological effects of drugs and alcohol on the human brain, as compared to other medical conditions, is relatively new in the field of medical research. Only within the last fifty years or so has the medical community focused on how drugs and alcohol affect the human brain and the conditions that arise from prolonged abuse of the various associated substances. As Dent J. Yerbury points out, "literally hundreds of substances cross the brain barrier to influence human behavior and psychology" (June,1986), especially those connected to substance abuse. Reflecting those substances that are most widely abused and that cause the most significant problems to the abuser, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM--IV) has divided the universe of substances into eleven specific drug classes--alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, caffeine, cannabis (marijuana), hallucinogens, inhalants, nicotine, opioids, phencyclidine, and sedatives. Most recently, one other category has been included for less commonly abused substances, being over-the-counter medications."
Abstract This paper discuss marijuana, crack/cocaine, tranquilizers, hallucinogens, amphetamines, heroin, alcohol, nicotine. and caffeine to provide a framework for the author's argument that the legalization of drugs can in no way be deemed ethical or moral. The author points out that caffeine is an amphetamine, but it doesn't stand out because it is legal; although the effects of overuse don't seem to be as serious as those of other "harder" drugs, caffeine can be a dangerous drug. The paper concludes that the only argument that can be used to justify the legalization of drugs is ethical formalism; therefore, with only one available argumentative system to justify drug legalization as a moral act, the author believes that the conclusion to reject the legalization is correct.
From the Paper "What is a drug? A drug, as defined by "Webster's Dictionary" is: (1) a substance used as a medication or in the preparation of a medication, (2) a substance intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, (3) a substance other than food intended to affect the structure or function of the body, (4) a substance that causes addiction or habituation. The fact that the definition of drugs has so many components may be the cause of why society cannot come up with an agreement about whether or not drugs should be legalized. The definition contains the medical use of drugs which in the majority of cases are pharmacological drugs that have been recognized by doctors and pharmacists and it also contains the negative side of drugs which is the fact that drugs can cause addiction or habituation and can affect the body and mind. All drugs affect the body and mind. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, illegal drugs, and the drugs that we sometimes fail to recognize as drugs because they are so common."
From the Paper "Psychomotor stimulants include amphetamine and methylphenidate and both are used recreationally as well as clinically. Among their street names are uppers, speed, meth, and crystal. These drugs enhance self-confidence and provide a sense of well-being.
Amphetamine and structurally related drugs, unlike most stimulants, produce tolerance. Withdrawal after occasional use produces only mild sleep disorders. But withdrawal after binging produces a pattern of depression, anxiety, and agitation that leads to a craving for sleep followed by a period of very low mental and physical energy that can endure for weeks. Moderate use of orally administered stimulants produces insomnia and irritability. Intravenous, high-dosage use of these drugs, however, "leads to a psychotic state almost indistinguishable...."
Abstract This paper discusses the drugs and the ways they are smuggled into and easily sold in the prison environment. The paper describes the many approaches used to attempt to reduce drug use in prison, including punishment, encouraging snitches, treatment plans and drug testing. The author believes that the drug problem in the prison system does not appear to have any easy solution will continue to be present in the prison system for many years to come.
From the Paper "Politicians have been quick to condemn drug use in prisons, in the interest of appeasing their constituents. For many of their constituents, the idea of drug use in prison conjures up images of an overfed inmates sitting on their bunks casually smoking a "doobie". People with this image of drug use in prison often see drug use as a luxury or liberty enjoyed by prisoners. As such, drug use is seen as a type of "reward" for being in prison, and a direct negation of the punishment the inmates should be receiving for their crimes against society."
Abstract MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine), or "Ecstasy" as it is more commonly called, has earned its place as the recreational drug of choice for many people. Its users cite its supposed safety as well as its perceived psychological benefits. This paper presents an unbiased look at the drug. It shows the history and development of the drug, its physical and psychological effects (initial, short-term and long-term) and details the probability of birth defects on babies whose mothers used MSMA. The paper also looks at the effects on cognitive functioning, misuse of the drug and illnesses connected to its use. A conclusion asks the question, "Is it worth it?".
From the Paper ?Many studies have been done on non-human primates and rats. In these studies, the administration of MDMA produced extensive and possibly permanent damage to axons and synapses containing 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin). The areas of the brain most affected by this damage are the cortex, hippocampus and striatum. The hippocampus is of particular interest because it is associated with the storing of new memories, a task which studies have shown MDMA users have extreme difficult with. A reduced glucose metabolism rate of the left hippocampus is also seen."
Abstract This paper examines how both alcohol and cocaine are addictive drugs, which exert negative effects on the in both physical and mental well-being. It looks at how alcohol has a more significant physiological effect and can cause more significant long-term physical consequences than can cocaine; alcohol tends to age the body more and cause more lasting physical effects than does cocaine. It shows how, in both cases, the substances may be associated with co-morbid or pre-morbid depression, only in the setting of a comprehensive treatment program can either the alcoholic or the cocaine addict truly seek meaningful sobriety.
From the Paper "In contrast to alcohol, cocaine is an amphetamine drug which is taken in by smoking or injection or by absorption through mucus membranes such as the inside of the nose or the lips and mouth. As an amphetamine, cocaine produces an opposite effect to the sedative properties of alcohol. The cocaine user will have a sensation of euphoria and extreme well being associated with heightened sensation and increased heart and respiratory rates as well as blood pressure. While it takes several hours to overcome the effects of alcohol, the "high" achieved from cocaine use is relatively short ? usually 30 minutes to one hour in duration depending on frequency and amount used. The effect on the cardiovascular system and the central nervous system ends when the high ends and a cocaine addict usually experience no physiological withdrawal and does not require any medical support for the post-use period."
Abstract This paper describes strategies for coping with the underlying health risk factors that have been deemed related to the high drug and alcohol abuse rates among the young women of Australia. The paper uses these strategies as a basis for the methods suggested for decreasing the risky behaviors of these women. Finally, the paper also considers the role that general practitioners should have in identifying and preventing these behaviors.
Introduction
Identifying the Appropriate Media for Communicating with the Target Population
Strategies for Coping with the Depression-Based Risky Behaviours
Conclusion
From the Paper "According to Australia's Teen Challenge Web site, ?Alcohol is the most widely used recreational drug in Australia.? Unfortunately, because it can be used in socially acceptable ways, it is not often recognized as a drug, especially by those abusing it. So it is not surprising that a 1998 survey commissioned by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care found that the use of alcohol was of special concern in teenagers and young people up to the age of 25. The young adults described alcohol as a catalyst for social gatherings, although overall, fewer young adults were drinking (down from 77 percent in 1988 to 71 percent in 1998) but that those who were drinking were drinking more."
Abstract This paper examines how many factors contribute to why today's youth are abusing the pharmaceutical drug, Adderall, an amphetamine belonging to the group of medicines called central nervous systems stimulants, which are used to treat attention deficit disorder. It looks at how Adderall appeals to young kids who are not seeking out hard drugs, but still want a buzz; many students purchase Adderall solely to enhance their endurance during their school week.
From the Paper "Another form of abuse is abuse apparent in a study done in October 2001, thirty-four percent of students medically prescribed to Adderall admitted to having been approached to sell or trade their medicine. Prescription holders are generally middle school to college age and sell to their own classmates. Many people sell only amongst their circle of friends, but ample money can be made by selling to the public domain (Sorter). For instance, Anna, a senior at Harvard, speaks of a former classmate who sold each tablet for ten dollars and would make six hundred dollars from each full prescription (Wonder Drugs). Locally, the average price for a 30mg tablet ranges between five to ten dollars. The demand for stimulants allows a student with a prescription to sell his whole bottle quickly and with such a high asking price."
Abstract This paper explains that the term 'drug' is extremely broad and can be used to describe nearly any substance, which has a discernible effect on the person using the drug. The author points out that the legalization status of drugs in general is widely varied: Some drugs are entirely legal, others are legal but require a prescription and still others are completely illegal. The paper states that if drug use is legalized, drug abuse would become a public health problem; therefore, the benefit to society is that the treatment of drug abusers would become health-focused rather than criminally-focused as it is now.
Table of Contents
Stimulants
Caffeine
Amphetamine Other Stimulants including Ecstasy and Cocaine
Depressants
Alcohol
Barbiturates
Benzodiazepiness.
Drug Legalization
Definition of Drug Legalization
Arguments For and Against Legalization
Potential Effects of Drug Legalization
Drug Abuse after Legalization
From the Paper "Caffeine is one of the most widely used drugs in the United States. It is a stimulant found in coffee, black tea, many soft drinks, and some other consumables. There are two primary steps in the way caffeine works. First, the drug interrupts a process in the nervous system that generally stems the body's release of adrenaline, causing more adrenaline than usual to be released into the body. Additionally, caffeine inhibits the reuptake of adrenaline by the nervous system, causing the heightened amounts of adrenaline to have a prolonged effect. ("Caffeine"). The purchase and consumption of caffeine is legal for all ages in the United States."
Abstract This paper begins by offering a brief overview of psychoactive substance abuse, including alcohol and amphetamines. It discusses the significant association between violence and the use of psychoactive drugs. This paper then expands on the effects of psychoactive abuse and the correlation between the use of psychoactive substances and the presence of mental illness. In conclusion, different types of treatment and their effectivity are highlighted.
From the Paper "The prevalence of patients who are mentally ill and chronically addicted is growing every day. Many of these patients have lives that are defined by long term problems with personal and social functioning, problems with unemployment and a lack of adequate health care services. There are some who feel that these patients, especially in light of our swelling prison populations, should be a mental health priority for the entire nation. (Ahr & Holcomb, 1985; Youngstrom, 1991). The more that psychologists become involved with these complicated patients, the more likely these patients will be able to survive the problems they have experienced since the deinstitutionalization which took place during the 1980s. Before deinstitutionalism occurred, the primary treatment for these patients was in the hospital setting and the role of psychologist in this treatment setting was unclear. The hospital was more the venue of the psychiatrist, who managed the patients mostly on a biologically based model."
Abstract This paper analyzes the use of performance enhancing drugs in baseball. The paper argues that the use of such drugs by athletes is dangerous to children. The paper also asserts that it lowers the integrity of the sport and demonstrates a lack of accountability on the part of professional athletes.
From the Paper "Recent Congressional hearings and testimony from major league baseball players revealed that a number of professional baseball athletes are guilty of using performance enhancing drugs, like steroids and..."
Tags: Rafael Palmeiro, Sammy Sosa, steroids, amphetamines, MLB
Abstract This paper studies the use of performance-enhancing and other drugs in athletics for heightened performance in amateur and professional sports. The paper discusses the prevalence of these drugs on the open market. The paper also details specific drug usage, side effects and other dangers.
From the Paper "In the pursuit of heightened athletic performance, many amateur athletes as well as professional athletes have turned to the use of a wide assortment of drugs, ranging from steroids to amphetamines, performance-enhancing substances and illicit..."
