Which one of the following drugs has a stimulating action on CNS and produces sense of euphoria?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Cocaine
Cocaine (coca alkaloid) is obtained from the coca plant, Erythroxylum coca. It interferes with the transport of the neurotransmitter dopamine. It has a potent stimulating action on the central nervous system and produces a sense of euphoria (a feeling of great happiness) and increased energy. Too much cocaine causes hallucinations.
(1) Cocaine — Correct. Cocaine, the coca alkaloid, is the drug that has a potent stimulating action on the central nervous system and produces a sense of euphoria and increased energy. These are the two effects named in the question.
(2) Barbiturates — Incorrect. Barbiturates are medicines used to help patients cope with mental illness such as insomnia (lack of sleep). They calm the nervous system; they do not stimulate it.
(3) Amphetamines — Incorrect. Amphetamines are named, with barbiturates and benzodiazepines, among the medicines for depression and insomnia that are often abused. The drug described with the stimulating action and the sense of euphoria is cocaine.
(4) Benzodiazepines — Incorrect. Benzodiazepines are also medicines of this group. They are used to calm patients, not to stimulate them.
NCERT Extract:
Drugs and Alcohol Abuse – “Coca alkaloid or cocaine is obtained from coca plant Erythroxylum coca, native to South America. It interferes with the transport of the neuro-transmitter dopamine. Cocaine, commonly called coke or crack is usually snorted. It has a potent stimulating action on central nervous system, producing a sense of euphoria and increased energy.”