Methods Of Modifying Behaviour 1: Agonist And Antagonist Flashcards
1
Q
What is an agonist?
A
A chemical that binds to postsynaptic receptor and activated the receptor to produce a response. In the case of medication, agonists are designed to imitate the action of another substance such as heroin.
2
Q
What is an example of agonist drug?
A
Methadone. Used to treat addiction to opioid drugs like heroin and is produced synthetically to mimic some of the effects of heroin.
3
Q
What methadones uses?
A
Maintenance treatment. The aim is that by giving heroin users methadone as a substitute, it will reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms. It has the same effects but does not give the same ‘high’. Dosage is slowly reduced.
