Download Human Physiology

Human Physiology
The impact of depressants on the brain
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9a. Students know how the complementary activity of
major body systems provides cells with oxygen and
nutrients and removes toxic waste products such as carbon
dioxide.
9b.Students know how the nervous system mediates
communication between different parts of the body and the
body’s interactions with the environment.
9d.Students know the functions of the nervous system and
the role of neurons in transmitting electrochemical
impulses.
9e.Students know the roles of sensory neurons,
interneurons, and motor neurons in sensation, thought,
and response
Standards
Understand the function of the nervous
system.
 Explain how the nervous system
maintains homeostasis.
 Explain how the nervous sends messages
and communicates with different parts of
the body.
 Understand the impact of depressants and
stimulants on brain chemistry and
function.
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Objectives:
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Brain-controls nervous system, maintains
normal function of the body, contains 100
billion neurons
Why is the brain so important?
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Drugs change how the brain works, by
changing the number of action potentials
(nerve impulses) that are generated.
Drugs that make a person feel relaxed or
tired.
Reduce the ability of neurons (nerve cells) to
generate action potentials (send messages).
Block neurotransmitters (stops/slows
messages between neurons)
Slows down the central nervous system.
Depressants and The Brain
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Contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Causes temporary euphoria or disorientation
More damaging to the lungs than cigarettes
Quadruples chances of heart attacks
Long term effects on the brain-Memory loss,
inability to concentrate, difficulty with
problem solving, uncoordinated movements,
problems with sensory and time perception
Depressant-Marijuana
Marijuana’s Impact on the Brain
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Depressant that slows down the CNS
Slows down reflexes, disrupts coordination, and
impairs judgement
Causes damage to liver, heart, lungs, muscles,
pancreas, stomach, intestines
Alcohol Poisoning-usually caused by rapid intake
of alcohol, slowing of breathing, body feels cool
or clammy, unconscious or semiconscious, skin is
bluish, vomitting,
Long term effects on the brain-Damage to the
frontal lobes, reduction in brain size, loss of
memory and confusion, disruption of sleep
pattern, alcoholism
Depressant-Alcohol
Alcohol’s Impact on the Brain
Why is your brain important?
 How do depressants “slow down” the
central nervous system?
 How does alcohol or marijuana affect the
functioning of your brain?
 What are some of the long term affects of
alcohol or marijuana on the brain?
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Summary Questions