Methods Of Modifying Addiction (1) - Agonist And Antagonist Substitution Flashcards
Method 1 - agonist and antagonistic substitution (10)
P1- agonist (methadone)
Synthetic replacement for Heroin/opioids
It occupies the dopamine receptors so mimics the effects but without the Hugh
It activates receptors so reduces chances of withdrawal
Still addicted to methadone but won’t experience the uncontrolled, disruptive, compulsive behaviour
It is taken orally so blood concentration doesn’t spike
Dosage- start with between 10-40mg and it upped to find maintenance level between 60-120mg - there will be no withdrawals
Collected daily for first 3m until they are trusted unsupervised
Given other psychosocial support
P2 - antagonistic (naltrexone)
Also common for treatment of opioid addiction
Used for addicts in recovery to prevent relapse (safety net)
Can only be taken for 6m max
It fully blocks d2 receptors so no dopamine can mind meaning no please or reward
Taken orally
Can also be used in gambling addiction
Evaluate agonist and antagonistic substitutions (10)
P1- effectiveness
S-NICE shows how methadone is effective
E-31 reviews 27 randomised single blind control trials - research support
E- found increased retention for people using methadone rather than placebo or no treatment
W-effective as its strong, scientific pieces of research
P2- comparing methadone to buprenaphide
S-it is a milder medication with both agonist and antagonistic properties
E-much reduced chance of overdose as it has a ceiling effect so increasing dosage does not increase effects
E- research shows it is 6x safer
C-however research shows people prefer and will retain methodone as they prefer it
W-both good but methadone has more risks
P3- ethics
S- both methadone and naltrexone and side effects
E-highly addictive with side effects such as constipation, confusion, apathy and when mixed with other substances can cause respiratory isssues
E-naltrexone has side effects causing liver issues
E-2023 reported 709 deaths from methadone
W-arguably creates another addiction however its a lot safer and short term side effects outweigh addiction
Conclusion:
Is effective as its better than opioid addiction - however only successful for those who want help
There’s also wider social issues such as deprivation that’s involved with addiction - not purely biological
