Brainscape's Knowledge GenomeTM

Browse over 1 million classes created by top students, professors, publishers, and experts.


See full index

Psychiatry > Substance Abuse > Flashcards

Substance Abuse Flashcards

1
Q

What is the definition of a psychoactive drug or psychotropic substance?

A

A psychoactive drug or psychotropic substance is a chemical that acts on the CNS, altering brain function and causing temporary changes in perception, mood, consciousness, and behaviour.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

How is a drug defined?

A

A drug is any substance that causes physiological changes in the body when inhaled, injected, smoked, consumed, absorbed, or dissolved under the tongue.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What is a substance use disorder?

A

A substance use disorder is a medical condition where the use of one or more substances leads to clinically significant impairment or distress.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What are the key symptoms of substance use disorders?

A

Symptoms of substance use disorders include mental, physical, and behavioural impairments.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

How are psychoactive substances classified?

A

Psychoactive substances are classified into depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, and solvents.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

What are the effects of depressants on the central nervous system (CNS)?

A

Depressants decrease CNS activity, reduce consciousness, lower heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, and cause lack of coordination and slurred speech.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What are some examples of depressants?

A

Examples of depressants include barbiturates, benzodiazepines, alcohol, cannabis, and opiates.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

How do stimulants affect the central nervous system?

A

Stimulants increase CNS activity, raising heart rate, blood pressure, alertness, and energy levels, and can cause restlessness.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

Name some common stimulants.

A

Common stimulants include amphetamines, methamphetamines, ecstasy, cocaine, caffeine, and kola nut.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What are hallucinogens, and what effects do they cause?

A

Hallucinogens, or psychedelics, cause distorted perceptions and labile mood changes.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

Provide examples of hallucinogens.

A

Examples of hallucinogens include LSD, psilocybin, magic mushrooms, ecstasy, peyote, PCP, marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids, and ketamine.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What is the difference between licit and illicit substances?

A

Licit substances are legally permitted, while illicit substances are illegal and unauthorised.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

Why are substances addictive?

A

Substances are addictive because they activate the brain’s reward system, which is designed to satisfy survival needs.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What is the brain’s reward system, and how does it relate to addiction?

A

The brain’s reward system, primarily involving dopamine release, reinforces behaviours that trigger pleasurable feelings, leading to repeated use of substances.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

How does the brain’s reward circuitry get hijacked by substance use disorders?

A

Substance use disorders hijack the reward circuitry, rewiring the brain to prioritise substance use over other behaviours.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What is tolerance in the context of substance use?

A

Tolerance is a state where a drug produces a decreased effect after repeated use, or where higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

Define withdrawal in substance use.

A

Withdrawal is a group of symptoms that occur when a drug is reduced or withdrawn, with the nature of symptoms depending on the substance class.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What are the key features of acute intoxication?

A

Acute intoxication is a transient condition following the use of alcohol or psychoactive substances, causing disturbances in consciousness, cognition, perception, affect, behaviour, and other psychophysiological functions.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What is harmful use of psychoactive substances?

A

Harmful use is a pattern of psychoactive substance use that damages health, either physically or mentally.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

Define dependence syndrome.

A

Dependence syndrome is characterised by a higher priority given to substance use than other behaviours, with a strong desire to take psychoactive drugs, alcohol, or tobacco.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

What are the diagnostic guidelines for dependence syndrome?

A

Dependence syndrome is diagnosed if three or more criteria, such as strong desire, loss of control, withdrawal, tolerance, neglect of other interests, and persistence despite harm, are met in the past year.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What is the global prevalence of substance use disorders?

A

Substance use disorders are prevalent worldwide, affecting people of all ages, races, cultures, and economic backgrounds.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

What are some key findings from the U.S. regarding substance use?

A

In the U.S., lifetime prevalence of substance use in individuals aged 12 or older was 46.4%, with higher use among the unemployed and 16-25-year-olds, and cannabis was the most commonly used illicit drug.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

Describe the epidemiology of substance use in Europe.

A

In Europe, lifetime prevalence of substance use was 42% in 15-16-year-old pupils, with a strong association between cigarette smoking and cannabis use.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

What are the key epidemiological findings regarding substance use in Nigeria?

A

In Nigeria, studies show alcohol is the most commonly abused licit drug, followed by cannabis as the most commonly abused illicit drug.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

How does substance use vary across different social classes?

A

Substance use cuts across all social classes, with some classes favouring specific combinations, like students preferring cannabis.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

What is the relationship between gender and substance use?

A

Drug abuse and dependence are higher in males compared to females, with a 7.8% vs. 4.4% ratio.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
28
Q

How does employment status influence substance use?

A

Substance use disorders are more common in unemployed individuals and minority groups.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
29
Q

How does occupation relate to substance use?

A

Substance use is more common in medical professionals than in non-medical professionals of similar training levels.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
30
Q

Describe the relationship between substance use and urban areas.

A

Substance use is higher in disadvantaged areas of large cities.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
31
Q

How does age affect substance use?

A

Substance use is more common in adolescents, early adults (16-24 years old), and older adults (≥ 50 years old).

32
Q

How does race influence substance use?

A

Substance use is higher in minority groups, with higher rates among Blacks (7.9%) compared to Hispanics (5.1%).

33
Q

What is the impact of education on substance use?

A

Substance use is more prevalent among individuals who did not complete university education compared to graduates.

34
Q

What is the prevalence of comorbidity in substance use disorders?

A

Comorbidity is common in substance use disorders, with 76% of males and 65% of females having co-morbid mental disorders.

35
Q

What are the most common psychiatric disorders associated with substance use?

A

Common psychiatric disorders associated with substance use include antisocial personality disorder, phobias, anxiety disorders, major depression, and dysthymic disorder.

36
Q

What are some genetic/biological factors that contribute to substance use disorders?

A

Genetics and biological factors account for 40-60% of a person’s vulnerability to substance use disorders.

37
Q

What environmental factors contribute to substance use disorders?

A

Environmental factors, such as learned behaviour, availability, and chaotic home environments, contribute to substance use disorders.

38
Q

How does personality influence substance use disorders?

A

Personality factors and psychiatric disorders can increase vulnerability to substance use disorders.

39
Q

What is the significance of developmental stages in substance use vulnerability?

A

The stage of development, especially during adolescence, influences vulnerability to substance use, as the brain is still developing.

40
Q

How does parental influence contribute to substance use?

A

Children of smoker parents are twice as likely to become smokers, and parental disapproval of smoking reduces the likelihood of children smoking.

41
Q

What role does family structure play in substance use disorders?

A

Substance use disorders are more common in single-parent families or families with many children.

42
Q

How does peer influence affect substance use?

A

Adolescents are more likely to use substances if their peers do, and friendships tend to break down when friends have different substance use behaviours.

43
Q

What is the significance of role modeling in substance use?

A

Role modelling by parents and other significant figures can influence adolescents’ substance use behaviours.

44
Q

How do availability and accessibility of substances influence their use?

A

The availability and accessibility of substances can lead to increased use.

45
Q

What is the impact of advertising and promotion on substance use?

A

Advertising and promotion can increase the use of substances.

46
Q

How do socioeconomic factors contribute to substance use?

A

Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty, unemployment, and low education, contribute to substance use.

47
Q

What is the role of globalization and industrialization in substance use?

A

Globalisation and industrialisation can lead to increased substance use, as new markets and opportunities for substance distribution emerge.

48
Q

What are the common physical complications of substance use?

A

Physical complications of substance use include cardiovascular diseases, respiratory problems, liver damage, and infections.

49
Q

What are the psychiatric/psychological complications of substance use?

A

Psychiatric complications include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and cognitive impairment.

50
Q

What are the social complications of substance use?

A

Social complications include relationship problems, criminal behaviour, and social isolation.

51
Q

What are the forensic complications of substance use?

A

Forensic complications involve legal issues, such as arrests, convictions, and imprisonment related to substance use.

52
Q

What are the economic complications of substance use?

A

Economic complications include loss of productivity, financial strain, and increased healthcare costs.

53
Q

What is alcoholism, and why is it a problematic term?

A

Alcoholism is an outdated and stigmatising term; the preferred term is alcohol use disorder (AUD).

54
Q

How is alcohol use disorder (AUD) classified?

A

AUD is classified based on the number of criteria met, ranging from mild (2-3 criteria) to moderate (4-5 criteria) to severe (6+ criteria).

55
Q

What are the safe drinking limits for alcohol?

A

Safe drinking limits are up to 14 units per week for men and women, spread over three days or more.

56
Q

How does alcohol misuse vary by gender, age, and ethnicity?

A

Alcohol misuse is more common in males, younger individuals, and some ethnic groups, with varying rates across different populations.

57
Q

What are the physical damages associated with alcohol use?

A

Physical damages from alcohol use include liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, hypertension, and cancer.

58
Q

What psychiatric disorders are associated with alcohol use?

A

Psychiatric disorders associated with alcohol use include depression, anxiety, and alcohol-induced psychotic disorders.

59
Q

What are intoxication phenomena, and how do they relate to blood alcohol concentration?

A

Intoxication phenomena are the observable signs of intoxication that correlate with blood alcohol concentration.

60
Q

What are the key features of alcohol withdrawal syndrome?

A

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is characterised by tremors, sweating, anxiety, nausea, and, in severe cases, seizures.

61
Q

What is Delirium Tremens, and what are its key features?

A

Delirium Tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal characterised by confusion, hallucinations, and autonomic instability, which can be life-threatening.

62
Q

What is the CAGE screening test for alcohol abuse or dependence?

A

The CAGE screening test for alcohol abuse or dependence includes four questions about Cutting down, Annoyance by criticism, Guilty feelings, and Eye-openers.

63
Q

What are some investigations used to diagnose alcohol use disorders?

A

Investigations for diagnosing AUD include blood tests, liver function tests, and screening questionnaires like the AUDIT.

64
Q

What drugs are used in the treatment of alcohol use disorders?

A

Drugs used in the treatment of AUD include disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate, along with psychosocial interventions.

65
Q

What are some primary prevention strategies for alcohol use disorders?

A

Primary prevention strategies for AUD include public education, restricting access to alcohol, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices.

66
Q

What is cannabis, and what are its common forms?

A

Cannabis is a psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant, commonly used in the form of marijuana, hashish, or cannabis oil.

67
Q

How does cannabis exert its effects on the body?

A

Cannabis exerts its effects by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, affecting neurotransmitter release.

68
Q

What are the clinical effects of cannabis use?

A

Clinical effects of cannabis use include euphoria, relaxation, altered perceptions, and impaired memory and concentration.

69
Q

How does cannabis use affect mental health?

A

Cannabis use has been associated with increased risk of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and psychosis.

70
Q

Does cannabis use predispose individuals to schizophrenia?

A

Cannabis use, particularly in adolescents, may increase the risk of developing schizophrenia later in life.

71
Q

What did the study by Andreasson et al. (1987) find regarding cannabis use and schizophrenia?

A

The study by Andreasson et al. (1987) found that heavy cannabis use in young men was associated with a higher risk of developing schizophrenia.

72
Q

What are some explanations for the link between cannabis use and schizophrenia?

A

Explanations for the link between cannabis use and schizophrenia include genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and the impact of cannabis on brain development.

73
Q

How do recent studies describe the risk of new-onset psychosis in young cannabis users?

A

Recent studies suggest that young cannabis users, especially those with a family history of psychosis, are at increased risk of new-onset psychosis.

74
Q

What role do social settings play in the effects of cannabis use?

A

The effects of cannabis use can vary depending on the social setting, with some settings increasing the risk of negative outcomes.

75
Q

What are the dangers of driving while intoxicated with cannabis?

A

Driving while intoxicated with cannabis is dangerous as it impairs motor coordination, reaction time, and judgment, increasing the risk of accidents.

Psychiatry (12 decks)

Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2024 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions