National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What term describes the effect of drugs that cross the blood-brain barrier?

1. Neurotoxicity

2. Psychoactive

3. Cognitive dissonance

4. Somatic regulations

The correct answer is: Psychoactive

The term that describes the effect of drugs that cross the blood-brain barrier is "psychoactive." This term specifically refers to substances that affect the brain and alter mood, perception, or cognitive functions. When drugs cross the blood-brain barrier, they can interact with neurotransmitter systems in the central nervous system, leading to various psychological effects such as changes in consciousness, mood alterations, and the modulation of sensory experiences. This is particularly relevant in the context of addiction counseling, as understanding how psychoactive substances alter an individual's mental state is crucial for effective assessment and treatment strategies. The impact of these drugs on the brain's chemistry can lead to dependency and various mental health issues, underscoring the importance of this classification in addiction treatment. In contrast, other terms listed, such as neurotoxicity, relates to the harmful effects of substances on nerve cells; cognitive dissonance describes the mental discomfort experienced when holding two conflicting beliefs; and somatic regulations refers to physiological processes. While these concepts are important in their own contexts, they do not specifically address the influence of drugs that directly affect brain function and behavior like psychoactive substances do.