Drug Abuse - Lichtblau

Question 1

Difference between psychological and physical dependence:

Answer 1

1. psychic or psychological dependence - the individual believes that the presence of the drug is necessary to maintain a state of well being
2. physical dependence - the drug has induced a physiological change in the individual such that discontinuation of the drug will produce a characteristic withdrawal or abstinence syndrome

Question 2

Difference between Barb/Benzos withdrawal and opioid withdrawal?

Answer 2

Opioid withdrawal is not life-threatening. Barb/Benzo is, so withdrawal should occur in a hospital setting.

Question 3

Difference between drug misuse and drug abuse?

Answer 3

Misuse:
Ill-advised prescribing patterns or improper use in context of medical treatment

Abuse:
Non-medical use, often for psychic effects beyond normal prescription

Question 4

Type 1 and Type 2 drug abuse

Answer 4

Type I 
Patient has history of abuse
Type II 
Patient taking drug for legitimate medical reasons becomes addicted as a consequence
(Not as common as once believed)

Question 5

What is the abuse potential basis for:

• Opioids
• Anxiolytic/Sed/Hypno
• Stimulants

Answer 5

Opioids: drugs produce a state in which the user is indifferent to his/her environment

Anxiolytic/Sedative/Hypnotics:
ability to induce a state of “disinhibition euphoria”

Stimulants: increase wakefulness, attentiveness, and athletic performance

Question 6

Which is not a reason for disciplinary action against a MN physician?

• Prescribing for patients with known dependencies or addiction histories
• Inappropriate or unmonitored prescribing of opioid analgesics for chronic pain
• Prescribing drugs without performing physical examinations
• Prescribing drugs in the face of known drug interactions

Answer 6

Trick question! Sorry…

All are acceptable reasons for disciplinary action