ADM Anatomy & Physiology Fundamentals 3

Question 1

Cocaine produces its stimulant effects primarily by blocking which transporter?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine transporter (DAT)

Answer

Cocaine blocks the dopamine transporter (DAT), preventing reuptake and causing dopamine accumulation in the synapse, producing its euphoric and stimulant effects.

Question 2

Which physiological process explains why repeated opioid use leads to tolerance?

Accepted Answer

Downregulation and desensitization of mu opioid receptors

Answer

Chronic opioid exposure causes downregulation (reduced number) and desensitization (reduced responsiveness) of mu opioid receptors, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect.

Question 3

The autonomic nervous system symptoms of opioid withdrawal (tachycardia, diaphoresis, piloerection) are primarily mediated by which brain structure?

Accepted Answer

Locus coeruleus

Answer

The locus coeruleus, the primary noradrenergic nucleus in the brain, becomes hyperactive during opioid withdrawal, producing the sympathetic autonomic symptoms.

Question 4

Nicotine exerts its addictive effects primarily by acting on which receptor type?

Accepted Answer

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs)

Answer

Nicotine binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), particularly α4β2 subtype in the VTA, stimulating dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens.

Question 5

Volume of distribution (Vd) is an important pharmacokinetic parameter. A highly lipophilic drug like THC would be expected to have a:

Accepted Answer

Large Vd due to extensive tissue distribution

Answer

Highly lipophilic substances like THC have a large volume of distribution because they readily partition into adipose and other tissues, explaining their prolonged detection in urine.

(ADM) Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist Practice Test

(ADM) Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist Practice Test

ADM Anatomy & Physiology Fundamentals 3