CARN Pharmacology of Addictive Substances 2

Question 1

Which receptor subtype is primarily responsible for the euphoric effects of opioids?

Accepted Answer

Mu (μ)

Answer

Mu (μ) opioid receptors mediate euphoria, analgesia, and respiratory depression, making them the primary target for opioid misuse.

Question 2

A patient on buprenorphine/naloxone reports that injecting the medication produces little to no euphoria. Which pharmacological property of naloxone best explains this?

Accepted Answer

Naloxone blocks opioid receptors when administered parenterally

Answer

Naloxone has poor sublingual bioavailability but becomes active when injected, blocking opioid receptors and precipitating withdrawal, deterring misuse.

Question 3

Cocaine's primary mechanism of action involves blocking the reuptake of which neurotransmitter most responsible for its reinforcing effects?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Cocaine blocks dopamine transporter (DAT), causing dopamine accumulation in the nucleus accumbens, which drives its reinforcing and euphoric effects.

Question 4

Which benzodiazepine property makes diazepam particularly prone to misuse compared to oxazepam?

Accepted Answer

Diazepam has a faster onset of action due to higher lipophilicity

Answer

Diazepam's high lipophilicity allows rapid CNS penetration and faster onset, producing a more intense euphoric effect that increases its misuse potential.

Question 5

Which mechanism explains why alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening, unlike opioid withdrawal?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol causes upregulation of GABA-A receptors leading to CNS hyperexcitability upon cessation

Answer

Chronic alcohol use downregulates GABA-A receptors and upregulates NMDA receptors; abrupt cessation causes CNS hyperexcitability, risking seizures and death.

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

CARN Pharmacology of Addictive Substances 2