Addiction Flashcards
What are the core features of addiction?
Salience Mood modification Tolerance Withdrawal Conflict Response
Which 3 components are prioritised innately?
Shelter
Food
Sex
What is both a predisposing and maintaining factor in addiction?
Stress
Activity within which pathway encourages addictive behaviour?
Mesolimbic pathway
It is mediated by dopamine.
What do all drugs that are abused have in common?
They act, in some way, on dopamine.
What receptors are reduced in concentration in those with addiction?
D2 receptors
Due to down-regulation from repeated release.
What area of the brain prevents addiction?
Pre-frontal cortex
This is the decision-making centre.
What is the most commonly inherited psychiatric condition?
Addiction
What factor predisposes relapse of addiction?
Stress
What predisposes addiction in childhood?
Chronic stress/trauma
Consumption of over how many units of alcohol per week is said to be hazardous drinking?
Over 14 units
More serious if over 35 units.
What are the criteria for alcohol dependence syndrome?
Strong desire to take drug Difficulty controlling use Physiological withdrawal state Evidence of tolerance Progressive neglect of other interests Persistent use despite harmful effects
Atleast 3 needed for diagnosis.
How long does it take for alcohol withdrawal symptoms to present?
24-48 hours
What causes withdrawal symptoms in alcoholism?
Alcohol depresses system, therefore body upregulates glutamate (and reduces GABA) to compensate.
When alcohol is removed, the excess glutamate is not compensated for, leading to symptoms.
Can alcohol withdrawal lead to delirium?
Yes - this is a medical emergency (can lead to cardiovascular collapse).
