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Related Concept Videos

An Overview of Psychoactive Drugs01:28

An Overview of Psychoactive Drugs

Psychoactive drugs impact brain function, influencing perception, mood, consciousness, cognition, and behavior. These substances are grouped based on their effects and the mechanisms by which they act.
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Hallucinogens, also known as psychedelic drugs, are a class of substances known for their ability to alter perception, cognition, and emotions. Despite their profound effects on the mind, these drugs are non-addictive, setting them apart from many other abused substances. The mechanism of action of these drugs lies in their impact on the 5-HT2A receptor in the brain. Upon activation, this receptor couples to Gq-type G proteins, triggering a cascade that releases intracellular calcium. This...
Hallucinogens and Psychedelics01:27

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Hallucinogens are psychoactive substances that profoundly alter perceptual experiences, generating unreal visual and sensory images. Often referred to as psychedelic drugs — a term derived from the Greek words "psyche" (mind) and "delos" (revealing) — these substances include marijuana and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), among others. These drugs vary in intensity and effects.
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CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids01:24

CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids

CNS stimulants, such as cocaine, amphetamines, and cannabinoids, have varying structures and mechanisms of action that lead to different therapeutic effects and side effects. Cocaine, with its molecular formula C17H21NO4, is a tropane alkaloid and a tertiary amino compound. It has two chemical forms: the hydrochloride salt and the "freebase." The former is in powder form, while the latter involves removing the hydrochloride salt to create a form that can be smoked. Cocaine exerts its effects by...
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Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Release or Uptake01:21

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Psychoactive drugs and athletic performance.

T L Schwenk1

  • 1Department of Family Practice, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.

The Physician and Sportsmedicine
|January 21, 2010
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Many psychoactive drugs can impair athletic performance due to cardiovascular effects and poor judgment, despite some having performance-enhancing side effects. Athletes may unknowingly use these substances, leading to bans by sports federations.

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Area of Science:

  • Sports Medicine
  • Pharmacology
  • Exercise Physiology

Background:

  • Psychoactive drugs encompass a range of substances affecting mental processes.
  • Their use extends beyond illicit means, including over-the-counter, recreational, and prescription medications.
  • Athletes' exposure to these drugs, whether intentional or unintentional, is a significant concern.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the physiological effects of psychoactive drugs on athletic performance.
  • To discuss the prevalence and implications of psychoactive drug use among student-athletes.
  • To highlight the regulatory landscape concerning psychoactive substances in sports.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on psychoactive drug effects.
  • Analysis of physiological impacts, including cardiovascular and cognitive functions.
  • Discussion of drug use patterns in high school and college athletes.

Main Results:

  • While some psychoactive drugs offer performance-enhancing effects, many negatively impact performance.
  • Adverse effects commonly include cardiovascular complications and impaired judgment.
  • Sports federations worldwide implement bans or restrictions on the use of many psychoactive substances.

Conclusions:

  • The use of psychoactive drugs presents a dual risk of performance enhancement and detriment in athletes.
  • Awareness and education regarding psychoactive substance exposure are crucial for athletes.
  • Understanding the physiological actions of these drugs is vital for sports governance and athlete safety.