AAMC FL Practice Exam

Which class of drugs is known for speeding up neural activity and body functions?

1. Depressants

2. Stimulants

3. Opiates

4. Hallucinogens

The correct answer is: Stimulants

Stimulants are a class of drugs recognized for their ability to increase neural activity and enhance bodily functions. They work primarily by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, which can lead to heightened alertness, energy, and attention. Common examples include substances like caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines, and cocaine. The effect of stimulants contrasts with that of depressants, which aim to slow down neural activity and can lead to relaxation or sedation. Opiates, on the other hand, primarily impact the body's pain perception and can induce feelings of euphoria, but they do not generally speed up neural processes. Hallucinogens alter perceptions and can cause hallucinations but do not have the stimulating effects characteristic of stimulants. Therefore, the correct identification of stimulants as drugs that enhance activity and functions is rooted in their pharmacological effects on the central nervous system.