Pharmacology - Test 2 - Drug Addiction

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

brain disorder, chronic, powerful, treatable

Question 2

loss of control

Answer 2

seeking/taking in spite of consequence

Question 3

how is is studied

Answer 3

animals, biological basis, inate hunger

Question 4

how do they work?

Answer 4

affect neural communication

Question 5

cocaine

Answer 5

binds to transporter, blocks reuptake, increases dopamine [ ] = REWARD.

Question 6

dopamine receptors

Answer 6

G protein coupled (GPCR), gene expression

Question 7

how do drugs change gene expression

Answer 7

signal transduction, mRNA levels, proteins

Question 8

epigenetics

Answer 8

DNA related changes in gene expression, no mutations

Question 9

two mechanisms of epigenetics

Answer 9

1) methylation= prevents translation. 2) acetylation of histone –>opening of chromatin = translation

Question 10

Why are they responsive to medications?

Answer 10

physiological basis

Question 11

medication for PS abusers (anyone know what that is?) Prohibited substance?

Answer 11

None approved. focus on dopamine. block euphoria, reduce withdrawal, lessen craving, enhance impaired corticol function. RTI-336, vaccine tx

Question 12

How can we visual brain function?

Answer 12

brain imaging

Question 13

how long can it take the brain to return to normal?

Answer 13

months to years

Question 14

Why are drug so powerful?

Answer 14

override removal mechanisms, alter signal transduction (insert photo: mice having sex)

Question 15

what regulates natural and biological rewards?

Answer 15

mesocorticolimbic pathway (feeding, drinking, love and sex)

Question 16

cocaine in squirrel monkeys

Answer 16

major increase in basal dopamine

Question 17

Drugs harness?

Answer 17

our strongest instincts and survival drives. Target powerful endogenous reward

Question 18

takeaway

Answer 18

drug taking innate drive, affects neurotransmission, alter gene expression, the brain cannot control DRUGS!!, long lasting effects, chronic/relapsing, DA,

Question 19

How do drugs control behavior?

Answer 19

affect brain systems designed to ensure survival of the species.