NROSCI 0080 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Reinforcement, Stimulant, Genetic Variation
Document Summary
Metabolized in liver liver breaks it down slowly. Metabolism of caffeine is slowed by alcohol and pregnancy. Metabolism of caffeine is increased by broccoli. Half life ranges from 3-7 hours not metabolized by infants they don"t have the enzymes to break it down. Large range because people have different metabolisms and tolerances. Majority of caffeine is excreted through urine. Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors at the presynaptic site. Effect of caffeine is in the cerebral cortex. Increased activation of sympathetic ns by stimulating epinephrine release from adrenal gland. Ex: drinking tea helps an asthma attack. Causes vasodilation in the rest of the body and increased blood levels of fatty acids. At high doses of caffeine nervousness/anxiety/panic attacks. Lethal dose 40-80 cups of caffeine at one time. Harmful effects of caffeine at 1g =10 cups over a short time (overdose) Tolerance: decrease disruption of sleep, higher dose needed to get desired effects. Headache, fatigue, impaired concentration anxiety and depression.
