9.6 Pharmacology of Substance Disorders

Question 1

Disulfiram (Antabuse)

Answer 1

• Drug used to deter patients from drinking alcohol
• Does not cure alcoholism but controls impulses of drinking

Question 2

Alcohol Withdrawal

Answer 2

• Benzodiazepines are the most common to help with alcohol withdrawal
• Anticonvulsants can also be used
• Thiamine is common

Question 3

Naltrexone

Answer 3

• Treatment of heroine abuse
• Maintenance of alcohol abstinence in patients who have quit

Question 4

Opioids

Answer 4

• Naloxone is used for drug overdose
• Methadone is given to suppress withdrawal symptoms

Question 5

Depressants

Answer 5

• Long acting barbiturates (phenobarbital) can relieve withdrawal symptoms

Question 6

Stimulants

Answer 6

• Minor tranquilizers (chlordiazepoxide) or Haldol can be used to treat intoxication
• Antipsychotics should be administered with caution because they lower seizure threshold.