| Date | May 2017 | Marks available | 6 | Reference code | 17M.3.HL.TZ1.7 |
| Level | Higher level | Paper | Paper 3 | Time zone | Time zone 1 |
| Command term | Explain | Question number | 7 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Explain, using examples, the neurological effects of inhibitory psychoactive drugs.
Markscheme
a. examples are benzodiazepines / THC / cannabis / alcohol
b. block / decrease synaptic transmission
c. causing less transfer of information to the brain / decreasing brain activity
d. benzodiazepines increase effect of GABA
e. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter
f. Increase permeability of neural membrane to chloride ions/hyperpolarizes the neuron
g. alcohol enhances effect of GABA
h. «alcohol» also decreases activity of glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter
i. THC/cannabis can block cannabinoid receptors
j. «THC» inhibits release of neurotransmitters that excite postsynaptic neurons/membranes
k. use of psychoactive drugs can lead to dependence/addiction / alter dopamine levels
