CAADC Pharmacology and MAT 2

Question 1

What is buprenorphine's mechanism of action in treating opioid use disorder?

Accepted Answer

Partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal without full euphoria

Answer

Buprenorphine activates mu-opioid receptors enough to suppress withdrawal and cravings but has a ceiling effect limiting euphoria.

Question 2

Which alcohol use disorder medication blocks opioid receptors to reduce alcohol's rewarding effects?

Accepted Answer

Naltrexone

Answer

Naltrexone blocks the endorphin-mediated rewarding effects of alcohol.

Question 3

What is the CAADC counselor's role in a MAT team?

Accepted Answer

Provides psychosocial support, monitors adherence, educates about medications, and collaborates with prescribers

Answer

Counselors provide the essential psychosocial component, monitor response, and serve as liaison between client and prescriber.

Question 4

What is buprenorphine's 'ceiling effect' and why is it clinically significant?

Accepted Answer

Beyond a certain dose, effects plateau, significantly reducing respiratory depression risk

Answer

The ceiling effect makes buprenorphine significantly safer in overdose than full agonists like methadone.

Question 5

Which medication maintains alcohol abstinence by restoring excitatory/inhibitory neurotransmitter balance?

Accepted Answer

Acamprosate (Campral)

Answer

Acamprosate modulates glutamate and GABA systems disrupted by chronic alcohol use.

CAADC - Certified Advanced Addiction & Drug Counselor Practice Test