Mechanism of Action
Drugs in and out
Metabolism/Excretion
Risks/Benefits
Pop Culture
100

Cocaine enhances dopamine neurotransmission by blocking the reuptake of dopamine into presynaptic neurons, thereby increasing its concentration in the synaptic cleft. What is this mechanism called?

What is dopamine reuptake inhibition?

100

After ingestion, alcohol is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream primarily through this organ, where it can quickly reach the brain and exert its effects.

What is the stomach or gastrointestinal tract?

100

Many drugs we've talked about are metabolized primarily by this type of enzyme in the liver, influencing its duration of action and clearance from the body.

What is cytochrome P450?
100

 Prolonged marijuana use in adolescents has been linked to impairments in this cognitive function, which involves the ability to plan, solve problems, and make decisions.

What is executive function?

100

In the TV show "Breaking Bad," this character often uses marijuana and is known for his distinctive laugh.

Who is Jesse Pinkman?

200

Nicotine primarily exerts its effects by binding to these receptors in the brain, which are also activated by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

 What are nicotinic acetylcholine receptors?

200

Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, such as irritability, anxiety, and cravings, typically peak within this timeframe after quitting smoking.

What is 24 to 48 hours?

200

This is the primary route of excretion for the psychoactive components of marijuana.

What is urine?

200

Moderate caffeine consumption has been associated with potential health benefits, including improved cognitive function and reduced risk of this neurodegenerative disease.

What is Alzheimer's disease?

200

In 2007, this former Disney Channel star was arrested for driving under the influence and subsequently entered rehab for substance abuse treatment.

Who is Lindsay Lohan?

300

Caffeine primarily acts as an antagonist to this neurotransmitter in the brain, which regulates sleep and wakefulness.

What is adenosine?

300

Abrupt cessation of caffeine consumption can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and irritability, typically lasting for this many days.

What is 2 to 9 days?

300

This enzyme, primarily found in the liver, is responsible for metabolizing ethanol into acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct.

What is alcohol dehydrogenase?

300

One of the acute physiological effects of cocaine use is this, which can lead to potentially life-threatening complications such as heart attack or stroke.

What is increased blood pressure (hypertension)?

300

This famous American novelist and author of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" was known for his heavy cocaine use during the 1970s.

Who is Hunter S. Thompson?

400

Alcohol primarily acts as a central nervous system depressant by enhancing the effects of this neurotransmitter, leading to relaxation and sedation.

What is gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)?

400

The euphoric effects of methamphetamine typically coincide with its peak plasma concentration, occurring within this timeframe after administration.

What is within 2 hours?

400

Despite its short half-life, traces of methamphetamine can be detected in urine for up to this many days after last use.

What is 1-4 days?

400

This life-saving medication is used as an emergency treatment for opioid overdoses, reversing the effects of opioids on the respiratory system.

What is Narcan or naloxone?

400

This artist, known for his surrealist paintings, was influenced by his experiences with psychoactive drugs, which he believed expanded his creative vision.

Who is Salvador DalĂ­?

500

Methamphetamine increases monoamines in the synapse by these three mechanisms.

What is dopamine transporter blockage, MAO inhibition, and excess release of neurotransmitter?

500

Abrupt cessation of this drug use can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, muscle aches, and intense cravings, often described as being similar to a severe case of this illness.

What is heroin?

500

This drug needs to be metabolized before it can act on receptors in the brain.

What is heroin?

500

This long-acting opioid helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to stabilize their lives and focus on recovery.

What is methadone?

500

This musician famously said, "I used to have a drug problem, but now I make enough money."

Who is David Lee Roth (lead singer of Van Halen)?