Drugs of Abuse: Pharmacology

Question 1

Methadone

Answer 1

For opiate abuse (PO)
Opiate agonist
Stabilises patient; decreases crime, violence, HIV risk.

Question 2

Cannabis

Answer 2

The active agent of THC mimic lipid messengers: anadamide
Inhibits NT release from brain and periphery via Gi coupled cannabinoid receptors
Stimulates appetite via feeding centres in hypothalamus
Euphoric effect
Psychosis risk

Question 3

Amphetamines

Answer 3

increase wakefulness and concentration, decrease appetite
Performance enhancing
Release monoamines from neuronal storage vesicles and block reuptake inhibitors; increase in DA, NA, and 5HT
Causes euphoria, increase energy and self esteem and labido, aggression and obsession
Psychosis in high doses
Increase cardiovascular tone, blood pressure and heart rate

Question 4

Cocaine

Answer 4

Alkaloid from coca tree
Leaves chewed or snorted
Causes euphoria, excitement and increases work ability
Increase catecholamine neurotransmitter function by preventing reuptake; increase in DA
Little tolerance, and physical dependence but high psychological dependence
Causes hypertension, increase HR, fever and dilated pupils

Question 5

Opiates

Answer 5

Agonist at G-coupled opioid receptor (u) to lower transmitter release
Causes euphoria, drowsiness, itching and nausea
Withdrawal= craving, vomiting, cold flashes and kicking
Significant tolerance
Danger of HIV and hepatitis

Question 6

Naltrexone

Answer 6

For opioid addiction, have to be free for several days before starting
Also decreases alcohol craving
Disinhibition of GABA, decrease dopamine firing

Question 7

Mecamylamine

Answer 7

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist

Blocks reward of nicotine to prevent craving

Question 8

Acamprostate

Answer 8

Used for Alcohol dependence

Decrease neuronal excitability