A delusional or psychotic state, closely resembling acute schizophrenia, that is brought on by repeated use of high doses of amphetamine

Amphetamine Psychosis

Amphetamines exert their stimulant effects through a dual-action mechanism involving dopamine. They are similar to cocaine in that they block the reuptake of dopamine from the synapse, but they also actively stimulate the release of this neurotransmitter, which further increases its concentration and impact.

Amphetamine's Mechanism of Action

Although it may seem paradoxical to treat a disorder involving hyperactivity with a stimulant, amphetamines are an effective treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Their therapeutic benefit is achieved by increasing neurotransmitter activity in brain regions responsible for impulse control, specifically the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia.

Therapeutic Use of Amphetamines for ADHD

A person consumes a substance that is known to be a psychostimulant. Shortly after, they report feeling highly energetic, focused, and euphoric, with a reduced appetite and need for sleep. Which of the following statements best analyzes the most likely underlying neurochemical reason for these specific effects?

Amphetamines are a class of psychostimulant drugs that accelerate the transmission of messages between the brain and the body. While some forms are prescribed by doctors to treat conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), they are also frequently produced and used illicitly, carrying a significant potential for abuse.

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As a result of drug tolerance, some users of amphetamine would take large doses to experience a "high". From this, these users would develop symptoms of paranoia (auditory hallucinations, bizarre motor behavior, etc), which closely resembled schizophrenic symptoms.

Not only that, but amphetamine worsens symptoms of schizophrenia. Amphetamine is found to promote the release of dopamine and prolong the action of the released transmitter by blocking reuptake.

Drug Abuse as Support of the Dopamine Hypothesis of Antipsychotic Drugs

Some drugs are able to alter synaptic transmitter release. This can be done through many ways but include the over stimulation and/or prevention of the release of transmitters. Some are even able to target specific transmitters. 

Drugs alteration of synaptic transmitter release

* Cocaine
* Amphetamines (including methamphetamine)
* Cathinones (i.e., bath salts)
* MDMA (ecstasy)
* Nicotine
* Caffeine

Examples of Stimulants

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation (Australia). (2021, June 3). Amphetamines - Alcohol and Drug Foundation. ADF. https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/amphetamines/

ADF: Amphetamines

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Amphetamines

Calcium channel blockers (ex: verapamil) block the influx of calcium that normally drives the release of transmitters into the synapse. They do so by blocking the calcium channels. 

Calcium channel blockers

The active ingredient in Botox, botulinum toxin, binds to specialized receptors in nicotinic cholinergic membranes and is transported into the cell, where it blocks calcium-dependent release of acetylcholine, resulting in muscle paralysis

Botulinum toxin

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive type of amphetamine that has become increasingly widespread. Its popularity is partly due to its accessibility and low cost, as it can be synthesized from readily available ingredients like pseudoephedrine, a compound found in many over-the-counter cold and flu remedies. Despite laws designed to restrict access to such precursors, methamphetamine remains a popular drug option. It is often available in a potent, smokable form known as 'crystal meth,' which is particularly addictive because it rapidly enters the brain, creating an intense but brief euphoria that encourages repeated use.

Methamphetamine

Cocaine is a stimulant drug that carries a high potential for abuse. As a stimulant, it affects the dopamine neurotransmitter system.

Cocaine

MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a mild stimulant with perception-altering effects, commonly known as 'ecstasy' or 'Molly'. It is typically ingested in pill form and produces effects such as increased energy, feelings of pleasure, and emotional warmth. While it has stimulant properties, its classification is debated due to its hallucinogenic effects and chemical similarity to amphetamines.

MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly)

Caffeine is a stimulant drug, notable for being the most commonly used psychoactive substance in the world and is generally considered relatively safe. People typically use it to increase alertness, arousal, and energy. Despite its widespread use, its effects are significantly less potent than other major stimulants like amphetamines.

Caffeine

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance primarily consumed through tobacco products. Its use is associated with significant health dangers, including an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, and various forms of cancer.

Nicotine

Based on the described effects, which general class of psychoactive drugs did the student most likely consume? Justify your answer by linking the student's experiences to the known physiological and psychological effects of this drug class.

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