1. 29.5 Brain Function and Chemistry
Set up Cornell Notes on pg. 39
Topic: Brain Function and Chemistry
Essential Question(s):
In a paragraph, summarize how your chosen drug effect the nervous system.
29.5 Brain Function and Chemistry
2.1 Atoms, Ions, and Molecules
KEY CONCEPT Scientists study the functions and chemistry of the brain.

2. Taped on Pg. 38
Clinical Application 10.5
Cocaine was originally introduced for what purpose?
LSD was originally used for what purpose?
The effect of a drug depends on what 3 things?
What happens with repeated use of an addictive substance?
Clinical Application 10.4
What do opiates do to the body?
What are endorphins?
Why does the human body make their own opiates?
Why do people have withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking a drug?

3. Points to Ponder
Neurons (nerve cells) are cells that can store information and send and receive messages.
On the top ½ of p. 38 write a paragraph, hypothesizing how drug or alcohol use might affect the nervous system?

4. KEY CONCEPT Scientists study the functions and chemistry of the brain.

5. Disclaimer:
We will be spending the next couple of days learning about the effects of certain drugs on the nervous system
We need to approach this topic in a mature manner
You may share family/news stories about abuse of drugs (please no clear identification)
You MAY NOT share any personal stories at any time

6. New techniques improve our understanding of the brain.
Today, scientists study the brain without surgery.

7. Changes in brain chemistry can cause illness.
Different neurotransmitters (chemicals) relate to different functions in different areas of the brain..
synapse
Normal
receptor
neurotransmitter
When your brain produces the correct amount of these neurotransmitters, homeostasis is maintained
some stimulate impulses, some prevent impulses

8. Abnormal levels of neurotransmitter can cause illness.
Schizophrenia: A brain disorder in which people interpret reality abnormally
Depression: A mood disorder causing a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest
green= low levels of activity
Red = are the most active
Normal
Depressed
Schizophrenic

9. Drugs alter brain chemistry.
Addiction
is the physiological need for a substance.
Tolerance
occurs when more drug is needed to produce an effect.

10. Drug Addiction
Occurs because of the complex interaction of neurons, drugs, and individual behaviors
Understanding how neurotransmitters fit receptors can help explain the actions of certain drugs
Different drugs have different mechanisms of action
Several questions remain about the biological effects of addiction, such as why some individuals become addicted and others do not

11. Stimulants cause more action potentials (electrical impulse)
may increase neurotransmitter (chemicals) in synapse
Happy, energetic, alert “uppers”
Increase mental or physical functions
cocaine
Ex:
Speed
Cocaine
Caffeine
Nicotine
MDMA ecstasy
Methamphetamine
neurotransmitter
synapse

12. Depressants cause fewer action potentials (electrical impulses)
may produce neurotransmitter that prevent impulses
Relaxed, tired “downers”
Decrease mental and physical functions
Ex:
Alcohol
Marijuana
Morphine
Heroin

13. Teenagers Against Drugs Campaign Posters and Essay
Alcohol
Ecstasy (MDMA, Molly, E)
Heroin
LSD (Acid)
Cocaine (Coke)
Methamphetamine (Meth)
Bath Salts
Inhalants
Rohypnol (Roofies)
Phencyclidine (PCP)
Marijuana (Weed)
Tomorrow you will gather information about your chosen drug and identify its effects on the nervous system.
Using this information you will create a poster designed to encourage teenagers to AVOID the drug AS WELL AS write an informational essay about the effects of your drug on the nervous system

14. “Excessive Drinking is Dangerous”

16. Drug Essay DUE: WED FEB 25 Section 1: (7 pts) Introduce your drug
What was your drug originally used for in the medical field or what was it developed for?
Any background information of the drug and its rise to popularity (facts/statistics/etc..)
Section 2: (14 pts)
Explain your drug’s effect on the nervous system specifically!
How does it effect motor skills or connections between neurons?
How does a person “feel” on your drug? What drives them to use?
What are the short term AND long term consequences of using/abusing the drug?
Section 3: (7 pts)
What are some “signs” that someone is abusing your drug?
What are some treatment options for a person who wants to become sober
Rehab?
Therapy?
Medicine?
Please tell us about some support groups available for your drug (Ex: Alcoholics Anonymous )
Section 4: (7 pts)
Find a news article regarding a crime committed while someone was using your drug
Explain what happened in your own words, and what the consequences to the person/or other people were
Print out a copy of the article/video, AND attach the web address to the bottom of your essay (Some newspapers: LA Times/Chicago Tribune/OC Register/ NY Times/Huffington Post.)

17. Body Story- The Beast Within (24m30s-49m)
Bottom of pg. 39– or if no room separate ½ sheet of paper
Take notes/comments/questions on the brain and neurons’ response to drugs and alcohol