CARN Neurobiology of Addiction 4

Question 1

Neuroimaging studies of individuals with addiction commonly show reduced glucose metabolism and blood flow in which brain region?

Accepted Answer

Prefrontal cortex

Answer

PET and fMRI studies consistently show hypofrontality (reduced prefrontal cortex activity) in addiction, correlating with impaired inhibitory control and decision-making.

Question 2

Which stage of the addiction cycle is primarily associated with activation of the extended amygdala and CRF systems?

Accepted Answer

Withdrawal/negative affect

Answer

The withdrawal/negative affect stage involves extended amygdala and CRF system activation, producing anxiety, dysphoria, and negative emotional states that drive compulsive use.

Question 3

The role of the hippocampus in addiction is best characterized as:

Accepted Answer

Encoding and contextual retrieval of drug-related memories that trigger craving

Answer

The hippocampus encodes episodic and contextual memories of drug use; these memories can be retrieved by environmental contexts, powerfully triggering craving and relapse.

Question 4

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the context of addiction primarily:

Accepted Answer

Has complex, region-specific roles — promoting addiction in some circuits and resilience in others

Answer

BDNF has region-specific effects: in the VTA-NAc it promotes addictive behaviors, while in the medial prefrontal cortex it may confer resilience — making its role complex.

Question 5

The concept of 'opponent process theory' as applied to addiction explains:

Accepted Answer

Why initial drug pleasure is followed by an opposing aversive state that grows with repeated use

Answer

Opponent process theory posits that the initial pleasurable 'A-process' is opposed by an aversive 'B-process' that strengthens over time, driving tolerance and withdrawal-motivated use.

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

CARN Neurobiology of Addiction 4