CAADE Pharmacology of Substances 5

Question 1

Which drug is most associated with the pharmacological phenomenon of 'kindling' during repeated withdrawal episodes?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol

Answer

Kindling refers to the progressive worsening of alcohol withdrawal symptoms with each successive episode, increasing seizure risk with repeated detoxifications.

Question 2

What distinguishes pharmacodynamic tolerance from pharmacokinetic tolerance?

Accepted Answer

Pharmacodynamic tolerance involves receptor downregulation or desensitization; pharmacokinetic involves faster drug metabolism

Answer

Pharmacodynamic tolerance results from receptor-level adaptations (downregulation/desensitization), while pharmacokinetic tolerance results from increased metabolic enzyme activity breaking down the drug faster.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the 'reward pathway' central to addiction?

Accepted Answer

The mesolimbic dopamine pathway from the ventral tegmental area to the nucleus accumbens

Answer

The mesolimbic pathway, projecting from the VTA to the nucleus accumbens, mediates reward, motivation, and is the central circuit hijacked by addictive substances.

Question 4

A client prescribed disulfiram (Antabuse) drinks alcohol. What pharmacological reaction occurs?

Accepted Answer

Acetaldehyde accumulation causing flushing, nausea, and cardiovascular distress

Answer

Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing toxic acetaldehyde to accumulate when alcohol is consumed, producing an aversive flushing and nausea reaction.

Question 5

Which statement about LSD's pharmacological mechanism is correct?

Accepted Answer

LSD is a partial agonist at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, producing hallucinations

Answer

LSD's hallucinogenic effects are primarily mediated through partial agonism at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the cortex.

(CAADE) California Association for Alcohol/Drug Educators Certification Practice Test

(CAADE) California Association for Alcohol/Drug Educators Certification Practice Test

CAADE Pharmacology of Substances 5