Chemical Dependency Counselor Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The group of substances that includes caffeine and nicotine is classified as stimulants. Stimulants are substances that increase activity in the central nervous system, leading to heightened alertness, attention, and energy levels. Caffeine, commonly found in coffee and various energy drinks, works by blocking adenosine receptors, which reduces feelings of tiredness and promotes wakefulness. Nicotine, primarily found in tobacco products, also stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, enhancing mood and concentration.

Understanding this classification is important because it helps in recognizing the effects and potential for dependency associated with these substances. Unlike depressants, which slow down brain activity, or hallucinogens, which alter perception and thought processes, stimulants have a general activating effect. Furthermore, narcotics primarily refer to opioids that relieve pain, which is distinctly different from the physiological and psychological effects of caffeine and nicotine.