Addiction Flashcards
What is relapse?
- Returning to drug use after abstinence.
- Involves amygdala and prefrontal cortex.
- Driven by cue exposure, stress, and cravings.
Define tolerance in the context of drug use.
A person needs more of a drug to get the same effect they used to get with a smaller amount
What happens in the brain with tolerance?
- Downregulation of receptors
- Less sensitivity
- Neuroadaptation
What brain system is tied to cravings?
Dopamine system, especially in areas like the nucleus accumbens. This system remembers the “high” from past use and sends out signals that make you want it again.
What role does the amygdala play in cravings?
It connects emotional memories with drug use
Triggers cravings when experiencing similar emotions.
What function does the prefrontal cortex serve in relation to cravings?
Helps with self-control and decision-making; in people with addicition the PFC may not function well, making it harder to say “no” to cravings.
Dysfunction may make it harder to resist cravings.
What is the reward circuit also known as?
Mesolimbic pathway- main pleasure system in the brain.
List the main components of the reward circuit.
- Ventral tegmental area (VTA): where the reward signal starts and releases dopamine, the key chemical involved in reward.
- Nucleus accumbens (NAc): Main pleasure center; it receives dopamine from VTA, making us feel rewarded and want to do something again.
What is the role of dopamine in the brain?
The motivation chemical; helps us want things that bring us pleasure
What is the opioid system responsible for?
The ‘liking’ pathway; Involves feelings of comfort, satisfaction, and pleasure.
What is the function of the prefrontal cortex in the context of reward?
Helps us think about future rewards and make decisions
Connects to the reward circuit.
Fill in the blank: Nicotine mainly works on _______ in the brain.
nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs)
What happens during nicotine withdrawal?
Extra nicotine receptors are left empty. Dopamine levels drop, causing irritability, anxiety, and cravings
What neurotransmitters are affected by alcohol?
- GABA : Alcohol increases GABA which slows brain activity (slurred speech, poor coordination).
- Glutamate: Alcohol block gultamate which leads to memory problems and slower reactions.
- Dopamine: Alcohol causes short term increase in dopamine which gives that brief buzz that makes drinking feel rewarding.
What effect does alcohol have on the prefrontal cortex?
Shuts down judgment and impulse control which leads to people making poor choices or acting without thinking.
What are the brain areas affected by alcohol?
Affects: cerebellum (balance), prefrontal cortex (judgment), hippocampus (memory).
How does MDMA affect serotonin levels?
Targets 5-HT2A receptors which causes a big surge of serotonin that boosts mood and emotional connection.
What chemicals does MDMA affect?
Boosts serotonin, dopamines, and norepinephrine.
MDMA also causes oxytocin release (social bonding).
What brain areas are affected by MDMA?
- Limbic system (controls emotion and bonding)
- Cortex (visual distortions may occur)
- Hypothalamus (affects body temperature)
