The generic drugs are normally copies of the brand name drugs and normally contain the same ingredients and serve the same purposes as the brand name drugs. However, the major difference that exists between the generic drugs and the brand name drugs is that the generic drugs normally cost less than the brand-name drugs (Goldberg 275). Brand name drugs have a higher price because of the consumers’ perception that the brand name drugs are of higher quality.
Explain the beneficial use of amphetamines.
Amphetamines are drugs that are used to stimulate the central nervous systems. They are applied in the treatment of ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) (Berman, Kuczenski, McCracken and London 124). The use of amphetamines, in this case, is to ensure mood stability, improve attention aspect of the patient and improve the brain function of the patient. Additionally, amphetamines are used to treat narcolepsy or sleep attacks (Berman, Kuczenski, McCracken and London 124). Amphetamines have also been used to a small extent to treat obesity and in some cases, the amphetamines have been used as antidepressants (Berman, Kuczenski, McCracken and London 124).
What are the medical benefits for anxiolytics?
Anxiolytics are utilized in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Anxiolytics are used in the treatment of insomnia. The use of the anxiolytics allows the patient to sleep better, and the quality of sleep is normally improved. Additionally, anxiolytics can be used to enhance mental performance resulting in an increased focus on an individual. The anxiolytics stimulate the low levels of dopamine in the body and as such enhances the regulation of the pleasure-pain cycle in the body
Discuss 3 classifications of psychoactive drugs their physical and psychological effect.
Depressants
Drugs in this category act on the central nervous system to slow or suppress process occurring in the body (Csiermik 4). The use of these drugs such as alcohol may cause deterioration of the liver, memory loss and malnutrition. Additionally, there may be a reduction in sexual interest in the individual.
Stimulants
Stimulants are used to increase the state of excitement in the body by increasing the brain activity (Csiermik 5). Some of these drugs include nicotine, amphetamines, and caffeine. Excessive use of these drugs result to overdependence, and the individual feels the need to use the drug in order to cope with situations.
Hallucinogens
These drugs cause individuals to experience hallucinations (Csiermik 5). An example of such a drug is cannabis which also has depressant and stimulant properties. The use of such drugs impairs judgment.
List 3 routes administration for drugs use. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of each route.
Oral Route
Advantage: the oral route is the easiest route of drug administration and is the mostly preferred by patients.
Disadvantage: not suitable for patients that are constantly vomiting.
Intravenous route
Advantage: the administered dose fully reaches the circulation instantly.
Disadvantage: some intravenous injections may lead to local reactions, and this route of drug administration is normally expensive and labor intensive compared to other routes.
Inhaling
Advantage: the huge surface area of the respiratory endothelium enhances rapid absorption.
Disadvantage: the size of the drug particles being inhaled influence the bioavailability of the drug in the system.
The Central nervous system consists of what 2 major components? How does drug use impact these 2 components?
The major components of the central nervous system are the brain and the spinal cord. Drug use normally interferes with how neurons function in terms of sending information, receiving information and processing it in the brain and spinal cord.
Explain the penalty difference for sentencing crack dealing vs. powder cocaine distribution.
The penalty difference is that a person charged with the possession of one gram of crack will receive the same sentence as a person charged with the possession of 18 grams of cocaine.
List 2 medical purposes for stimulants.
Treatment of ADHD
Treatment of narcolepsy
Work Cited
Berman, S. M., R. Kuczenski, J. T. Mccracken, and E. D. London. "Potential Adverse Effects of Amphetamine Treatment on Brain and Behavior: A Review." Molecular Psychiatry Mol Psychiatry 14.2 (2008): 123-42. Web.
Csiernik, Rick. Just Say Know: A Counsellor's Guide to Psychoactive Drugs. , 2014. Print.
Goldberg, Ray. Drugs across the Spectrum. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning, 2010. Print.
