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 inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine into presynaptic neurons, accumulating these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft. This results in amplified signaling to post-synaptic neurons. Therapeutically, it's used as a local anesthetic, especially in ophthalmic and other surgical procedures. However, it can cause severe side effects like addiction, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke.

Amphetamine, on the other hand, is an indirect-acting adrenergic agonist. It enhances the release of catecholamines like dopamine and norepinephrine from their storage sites in nerve terminals. The increase in these neurotransmitters leads to heightened alertness, increased concentration, and euphoria. Therapeutically, amphetamines treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. However, they can also cause side effects such as insomnia, reduced appetite, and increased heart rate. Cannabinoids, including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, bind to CB1 receptors in the brain. THC mimics anandamide, a naturally occurring neurotransmitter, leading to various effects, from relaxation to hallucinations. Synthetic cannabinoids, which are chemically engineered to mimic THC, can be significantly more potent. Therapeutically, cannabinoids can be used for pain relief, to reduce nausea, and to stimulate appetite. However, they can lead to side effects like impaired memory, altered judgment, and addiction. Over time, use can lead to tolerance and dependence. In conclusion, while CNS stimulants can have beneficial therapeutic effects, they also carry risks of significant side effects and must be used under appropriate medical supervision.

Dal capitolo 12:

article

Now Playing

12.4 : CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids

Drug Abuse and Addiction

64 Visualizzazioni

article

12.1 : Abuso di droghe e dipendenza: fenomeni farmacologici

Drug Abuse and Addiction

148 Visualizzazioni

article

12.2 : Depressivi del SNC: alcol e nicotina

Drug Abuse and Addiction

59 Visualizzazioni

article

12.3 : Depressivi del SNC: Barbiturici e benzodiazepine

Drug Abuse and Addiction

68 Visualizzazioni

article

12.5 : Stimolanti del SNC: agenti psichedelici

Drug Abuse and Addiction

56 Visualizzazioni

article

12.6 : Potenziatori cognitivi: inibitori della colinesterasi e antagonisti del recettore NMDA

Drug Abuse and Addiction

42 Visualizzazioni

JoVE Logo

Riservatezza

Condizioni di utilizzo

Politiche

Ricerca

Didattica

CHI SIAMO

Copyright © 2025 MyJoVE Corporation. Tutti i diritti riservati