How Psychoactive Drugs Impact the Brain

Depressants cause the body to relax by increasing the neurotransmitter GABA, which decreases neuronal excitability.

Stimulants induce temporary improvements in mental and/or physical functions and are commonly used as prescription or recreational drugs.

Hallucinogens affect the levels of serotonin or glutamate in the brain and are divided into psychedelics, dissociatives, and deleriants.