Countries: US

Introduces the pharmacology and uses of hallucinogens. The lesson discusses the use of hallucinogens in traditional tribal rituals and modern recreational practices. Students learn about hallucinogens found in nature and how they differ from developed synthetic versions. Discussion reveals the wide array of pharmacological effects generated by these drugs and examines how this complicates their drug classification in the United States. Discussion of the drug LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) exemplifies aspects of hallucinogen use and abuse, highlighting the medical and public issues raised by this class of drugs in society.

Expands on the discussion of hallucinogens introduced in Class 16. This lesson reviews the origins and effects of several drugs, including plant-based hallucinogens (such as “magic mushrooms” and peyote), Indole hallucinogens, Catechol hallucinogens, amphetamines, designer drugs, and Anticholinergic hallucinogens. Students get an in-depth look at the differing pharmacology and effects associated with these drugs.

Explores the historical use of and current concerns over drug use by athletes. Students explore the use of drugs by athletes around the world. Discussion covers such topics as the elite social status enjoyed by these drugs, the competitive edge they are perceived to provide, the pain-numbing benefits drugs provide to injured athletes, and the unknown side effects and possible toxicity of performance-enhancing drugs. The lesson imparts medical research on the benefits and drawbacks of these drugs, and explores how they affect the mind as well as the body.

Introduces the affect of psychoactive drugs on the nervous system. This class gives a basic overview of the nervous system, placing particular emphasis on neural transmission as a key component in the modus operandi of psychoactive drugs. Discussion covers important definitions, and explains how drugs modify the human nervous system – a concept central to understanding the effects of drugs.

Continues to explore the interaction between drugs and human physiology. This lesson expands on the vital concepts introduced in Classes 5, which play a key role in understanding the complex relationships between drug, user, and environment. Students explore both the desired and undesired effects of drugs. They also discover that drugs work in different ways – with some resulting in physical effects specific to the drug (or drug class) and others resulting in non-specific effects related more to user expectations and environment.

Builds on previous lessons to compare and contrast the history, pharmacology, and patterns of use for stimulant drugs. The psychological effects and delivery mechanics of cocaine and amphetamine drugs are discussed. Students learn of the striking similarities between the two drugs from a user’s point of view, as well as the differing ways in which they affect human physiology.

Focuses primarily on barbiturates and benzodiazepines. Students learn how sedative-hypnotics drugs reduce CNS (Central Nervous System) activity, despite their differing chemical origins. The lesson explains how use of these drugs can progress from simple relaxation (sedation) at low doses to coma and death in higher doses. Discussion also uncovers how these drugs, normally used to induce lethargy, can induce unexpected behaviors due to loss of inhibition.

Discusses the use of drugs for the treatment of temporary and long-term mental illness. The lesson explores the extent of mental illness in society (as high as 25%) and the medical treatments that may be used to treat them. Students discuss accepted drug use in the treatment of transient periods of mental illness (depression, anxiety, and disorientation/confusion) as well as commonplace drug treatments for chronic/acute mental illness. A variety of related issues affecting individuals, families, mental health professionals, and society in general are discussed.