Which of the following drugs has an effect on the central nervous system similar to that of alcohol?

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11ecba2d_0d73_f2d5_a3bf_bd2b9a4a47c8_MD0008_00 Psychoactive drugs are drugs that have an effect on mood, thinking, and/or behavior. They may be classified in a number of ways, such as by chemical structure or the effect they have on the brain. Among the most common classifications are narcotics (usually opiates), depressants, stimulants, and hallucinogens. Sedatives (eg, barbiturates, benzodiazepines) and alcohol belong to a category of drugs called depressants (or sedative hypnotics), which slow down, inhibit, or depress the central nervous system. These drugs are also known as anxiolytics as they reduce anxiety. Depressants exert their primary anxiolytic effect through binding at the GABA_A receptor, enhancing the effect of GABA, the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in the nervous system. (Choice B) Hallucinogens (eg, LSD) are not depressants; rather, they induce powerful mind-altering effects, including false sensory perceptions (hallucinations) and an altered sense of time. (Choices C and D) Cocaine and amphetamines are stimulants, which increase feelings of well-being, energy, and alertness. Educational objective: Stimulants (eg, cocaine, amphetamines) increase feelings of well-being, energy, and alertness; depressants (eg, alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates) slow down or inhibit the central nervous system and reduce anxiety; narcotics (generally opiates) are analgesics ("painkillers"); and hallucinogens have powerful mind-altering effects.

Which of the Following Drugs Has an Effect on the Central