Substance Disorders part 2 Flashcards
What are the major stimulants?
Amphetamines (methamphetamine, MDMA)
Amphetamine-like drugs (methylphenidate (Ritalin))
Cocaine
What are the major stimulant symptoms?
Psychological ( MANIA, hallucinations, euphoria)
Physical ( elevated heart rate and bp ; appetite loss and insomnia; mydriasis; seizures)
(Note: increased HR can be lethal)
What is a key symptom of cocaine?
seizures
Cocaine and Methamphetamines, what are the key similarities?
both produce and intense rush followed by euphoria
both drugs are addictive
Cocaine and Methamephetamines, what are the key differences?
Duration of Effect: Meth= 12 hrs ; Cocaine= 30 min
Frequency of administration= cocaine more frequent
Physical changes with meth
Stimulant intoxication may mimic symptoms of what?
Schizophrenia and/or bipolar I (manic) episodes
Clinically how do you differentiate between stimulants and schizophrenia/bipolar?
drug screen needed (does not rule out schizophrenia/bipolar)
What are the key symptoms of major stimulant withdrawal?
Like Atypical Major Depressive Disorder
- ->dysphoric mood (MUST BE SEEN)
- -> fatigue and psychomotor slowing
- -> hypersomnia with vivid unpleasant dreams
- -> increased appetite
Are the major stimulant withdrawal symptoms life threatening?
No just uncomfortable —-> BUT THATS WHAT YOU GET!
Another drug stimulant is Ecstasy, referred to as a spotlight amphetamine, what are some effects?
stimulant effects plus mild hallucinogenic effects (perceptual alterations):
Misperception of safe drug
Can you use Ecstasy for psychotherapy particularly PTSD?
small number of patients have seen prolonged effects
Another drug stimulant is Bath Salts, what doe this drug contain?
drug containing, in part, amphetamine-like chemicals (MDPV)
What are the minor stimulants?
nicotine and caffeine
What are the effects of minor stimulants?
both nicotine and caffeine cause improved mood, increased alertness/attention and decreased appetite
What are key symptoms of nicotine withdrawal?
Depressed mood insomnia and increased appetite irritability and anxiety restlessness and difficulties concentrating decreased heart rate
Why is insomnia a withdrawal symptom of nicotine which is a stimulant?
because nicotine is a muscle relaxant
What are some treatments of nicotine use disorder?
1) Nicotine Replacement Therapy
2) Buproprion and Varenicline –> black box warning due to suicidal and erratic behavior
What is considered caffeine intoxication?
after a dose of >250mg of caffeine
What are the key symptoms of caffeine intoxication?
increased energy restlessness, insomnia rambling thoughts tachycardia diuresis and GI disturbance