Addiction

Question 1

Dependence is diagnosed when 3 of the following 6 have been present in the past year. What are the 6 symptoms?

Answer 1

1. Strong desire to take it
2. Difficulty controlling once started
3. Tolerance
4. Neglect of other interests
5. Continued use despite evidence of harm
6. Withdrawal symptoms

Question 2

What are the stages of recovery?

Answer 2

1. Pre-contemplation
2. Contemplation
3. Choice
4. Relapse (go back to 1) or Quit/Controlled use

Question 3

How do you calculate units using %?

Answer 3

% = the number of units in 1L
Volume(ml)/1000ml = (?)
(?) x % = unit

Question 4

What is the recommended units/week for men and women?

Answer 4

14 units/week
3-4 units per day for men
2-3 units per day for women

Question 5

Describe the dopamine reward system

Answer 5

Substance use activates the dopamine reward system.

Dopamine is released from Nucleus Accumbens into frontal cortex resulting in pleasure

Question 6

Describe the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal

Answer 6

Fatigue
Tremor
Sweating
Nausea/Vomiting
Headache
Palpitations
Depression
Seizures

Question 7

What is delirium tremens

Answer 7

Alcohol withdrawal delirium
Symptoms - hallucinations, confusion, delusions, seizures
Treatment - ABC check, benzodiazepines (Diazepam rapid onset), thiamine

Question 8

What is Werniker’s Encephalopathy?

Answer 8

Chronic alcohol deficiency, resulting in thiamine deficiency
Symptoms - visual problems, loss of muscle coordination, memory loss
Treatment - thiamine

Question 9

Medical treatment for alcohol withdrawal

Answer 9

Benzodiazepines - Chlordiazapoxide (reducing dose over 3-5 days)
Thiamine