science drug misuse

Question 1

tolerance

Answer 1

reduced responsiveness to drug caused by previous administration

Question 2

mechanisms of tolerance - dispositional tolerance

Answer 2

less drug reaches active site

• dec rate absorption
• inc rate metabolism to inactive metabolites
• dec rate metabolism to active metabolites
• inc rate excretion

Question 3

mechanisms of tolerance - pharmacodynamic

Answer 3

site of action less affected

• down regulation of receptors
• internalisation of receptors
• reduced signalling downstream

Question 4

development of tolerance may also lead to….

Answer 4

dependence due to
withdrawal symptoms

dependence in order to avoid withdrawal effect

Question 5

reward centres

Answer 5

some drugs tap into reward pathway and increase dopamine levels

–> produced psychological component of addiction.- craving

Question 6

harmful use

Answer 6

pattern of use causing damage to physical or mental health

> 1mo or repeatedly over 12mo

Question 7

dependance

Answer 7

3+ of following for >1mo or repeatedly 12mo

• cravings/compulsions
• difficulty controlling use
• primacy
• increased tolerance
• physiological withdrawal
• persistent use despire harmful consequences