CARN Pharmacology in Addictions Nursing 2

Question 1

A patient on methadone maintenance therapy reports severe constipation. Which mechanism best explains this side effect?

Accepted Answer

Decreased GI motility due to mu-opioid receptor activation in the gut

Answer

Methadone activates mu-opioid receptors in the enteric nervous system, reducing gut motility and causing constipation.

Question 2

Which medication used in alcohol use disorder works by blocking the reinforcing effects of alcohol through opioid receptor antagonism?

Accepted Answer

Naltrexone

Answer

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric and rewarding effects of alcohol by antagonizing mu-opioid receptors.

Question 3

A nurse is educating a patient starting buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone). Which instruction is most critical to prevent precipitated withdrawal?

Accepted Answer

Wait until experiencing moderate withdrawal symptoms (COWS score ≥8-12) before taking the first dose

Answer

Buprenorphine must not be given until moderate withdrawal is present; its high receptor affinity can displace full agonists and precipitate acute withdrawal.

Question 4

Which benzodiazepine property makes long-acting agents preferred for managing alcohol withdrawal syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Self-tapering effect due to long half-life reducing seizure risk

Answer

Long-acting benzodiazepines like diazepam or chlordiazepoxide provide a self-tapering effect, smoothing withdrawal and reducing seizure and delirium risk.

Question 5

Varenicline (Chantix) aids smoking cessation primarily through which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Partial agonism at alpha-4 beta-2 nicotinic receptors, reducing cravings and blocking nicotine reward

Answer

Varenicline acts as a partial agonist at alpha-4 beta-2 nicotinic receptors, providing low-level stimulation to reduce cravings while blocking nicotine's full rewarding effect.

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

CARN Pharmacology in Addictions Nursing 2