Download FSci Ch 09 (1) part 2

Controlled Substances—Depressants
1. Depressants act on the central nervous system
and increase the activity of a neurotransmitter
called GABA.
2. Increased GABA production results in
drowsiness and slowed brain activity.
3. These drugs, consequently, relieve anxiety
and produce sleep.
4. Mixing depressants with alcohol and other
drugs increases their effects and health risks,
possibly leading to coma and death.
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Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9
Controlled Substances—Alcohols
5.
In what way are alcohols toxic?
–
6.
What are the classic symptoms of a hangover?
–
7.
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Nausea, Headaches, Excessive Thirst, Fatigue
What is the effect of alcohol on the central nervous
system?
–
8.
They disrupt the functions of healthy cells. This leads
to “intoxication”.
Contracts Brain Tissue, Destroys Brain Cells
What can chronic abuse of alcohol cause?
–
It can rot the liver (Livor Cirrhosis).
Controlled Substances—Bacterial Toxins
 Tetanus
9. Lockjaw, as it is sometimes called, is produced by
the Clostridium tetani bacteria. Its poison can cause
violent muscle spasms.
 Botulism
10. Produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum,
botulism paralyzes muscles. It causes irreversible
damage to nerve endings.
11. Very small amounts are extremely deadly. Botulism
is the most poisonous biological substance.
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Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9
Controlled Substances—Pesticides and
Heavy Metals
12. Pesticides mostly are used to protect plants or food
crops.
13. Metal compounds are very poisonous.
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Controlled Substances—Pesticides and
Heavy Metals
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Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9
Controlled Substances—Bioterrorism
Agents
 Ricin
14. is a poisonous protein in the castor bean.
15. is lethal in extremely small amounts.
16. can enter the body in various ways:
– inhaled as a mist or a powder.
– ingested as food or drink.
– injected into the body.
17. can cause death within a few hours.
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Forensic Science: Fundamentals & Investigations, Chapter 9
Controlled Substances—Bioterrorism
Agents
 Anthrax
18. is caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis, which
forms spores.
19. can enter the human body through:
– inhalation; causing breathing problems that usually
result in death.
– ingestion; becoming fatal in 25% to 60% of cases.
– absorption via the skin; leading to death in about
20% of untreated cases.
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