Heroin Mode of Action

Question 1

What is the mnemonic for the heroin mode of action?

Answer 1

GOD

Question 2

What does G stand for in the heroin mode of action?

Answer 2

Heroin enters the bloodstream and is hydrolysed into morphine

This morphine binds to opioid receptors and inhibits the action of GABA

Question 3

What does O stand for in the heroin mode of action?

Answer 3

Opioid receptors are concentrated in the reward pathway of the brain in areas such as the VTA and the NA and pain pathways

Question 4

What does D stand for in the heroin mode of action?

Answer 4

Once GABA is inhibited, dopamine can flood the synaptic gap activating the reward system and generating feelings of pleasure (euphoria) and activating the pain pathway and acting as an analgesic (pain relief)