Drugs of Abuse

Question 1

Methylxanthines

Answer 1

block adenosine Receptor in CNS which indirectly enhances DA release

Theobromine (chocolate), Theophylline (Asthma), Caffeine (100g per cup)

decreases fatigue, increases mental alertness, anxiety and tremors, increase HR and urine

INSOMNIA, ANXIETY, AGITATION, EMESIS, CONVULSION AT HIGH DOSES (10g)

Question 2

PNS Agonists

Answer 2

Nicotine: low doses stimulate and high doses inhibit

• NR in PNS and DA in CNS (increase DA release)
• irritable, tremor, intestinal cramps, diarrhea, increase BP/HR

Varenicline: used for smoking cessation tx by attenuating effects
- partial agonists at nicotinic receptor in CNS

Question 3

Cocaine

Answer 3

inhibits reuptake of DA/NE/5HT – intense euphoria

chronic use will deplete DA and induce craving

can cause death from OD + hypothermia

Local anesthetic + dx Horner’s syndrome (normal pupil will dilate)

Question 4

Amphetamines

Answer 4

substrate for MAO enzyme

increase alertness, decrease fatigue, SNS input

Question 5

Methylphenidate

Answer 5

used for ADHD tx by slowing the increase in DA

Question 6

Modafinil or Armodafinil

Answer 6

treat narcolepsy or sleep disorders

inhibits DA reuptake

Question 7

LSD

Answer 7

5HT agonist + SNS activation and stimulates DA receptors

hyperreflexia, nausea, muscle weakness

Question 8

PCP

Answer 8

NMDA receptor Antagonists + blocks reuptake of 5HT/DA/NE

insensitive to pain without losing conscious, coma with open eyes, anesthesia, stupor

Question 9

THC

Answer 9

receptors are on pre-synaptic terminal (inhibitory)

euphoria followed by drowsiness and decreases motor activity

increase HR, decrease BP, red conjunctiva

stimulates appetite + decreases IOP

Question 10

Dronabinol

Answer 10

Antinausea