Pharmacological mechanisms of recreational drugs

Question 1

Recreational drugs

Answer 1

Medicinal drugs we self-administer for non-medical reasons

Question 2

Dependence

Answer 2

Compulsion to take drug for psychological or physical need

Question 3

Stimulants

Answer 3

Cocaine and amphetamine

Question 4

Depressants

Answer 4

Alcohol, cannabis, opioids

Question 5

MOA cocaine

Answer 5

Inhibits monoamine re-uptake by blocking transporter proteins = increases dopamine, serotonin and noradrenaline in cleft

Question 6

Side effects cocaine

Answer 6

tachycardia, vasoconstriction, hypertension

Question 7

Amphetamines MOA

Answer 7

CNS stimulants - increased release of monoamines

Question 8

MOA cannabis

Answer 8

Agonist of cannabinoid receptor CB1 - this inhibits neurotransmitter release

Question 9

Alcohol deterrent

Answer 9

Disulfiram

Question 10

Disulfiram MOA

Answer 10

Inhibits acetaldehyde dehydrogenase - gives pt severe hangover sx after consuming alcohol

Question 11

Substitute for opioids

Answer 11

Methadone

Question 12

Baclofen MOA and use

Answer 12

GABAb agonist to treat cocaine addiction

Question 13

THC MOA

Answer 13

• Binds to cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 (G protein coupled)
• CB1 in nervous system, CB2 on immune cells
• Partial agonist of cannabinoid receptors
• Activating CB1 receptors releases neurotransmitters
• CB1 in cortex and hippocampus = perpetual and cognitive effects
• CB1 in basal ganglia and cerebellum = sedation and effects on movement
• CB1 in spinal cord and brainstem = analgesic effects

Question 14

Mu opioid receptor function

Answer 14

Analgesic, sedation and euphoric effects

Question 15

Kappa opioid receptor effect

Answer 15

Hallucinations