CASAC Pharmacology & Co-Occurring Disorders 2

Question 1

A client on buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) reports that the medication 'doesn't work' when injected. What property of naloxone explains this?

Accepted Answer

Naloxone precipitates withdrawal only via injection due to its parenteral bioavailability

Answer

Naloxone has poor sublingual bioavailability but becomes active parenterally, precipitating withdrawal if Suboxone is injected, thereby deterring misuse.

Question 2

Which psychiatric disorder is MOST commonly co-occurring with alcohol use disorder in clinical populations?

Accepted Answer

Major depressive disorder

Answer

Major depressive disorder is the most prevalent co-occurring psychiatric condition among individuals with alcohol use disorder.

Question 3

A client with opioid use disorder is also prescribed clonidine. What is the PRIMARY clinical use of clonidine in this context?

Accepted Answer

To manage autonomic symptoms of opioid withdrawal

Answer

Clonidine, an alpha-2 agonist, reduces noradrenergic hyperactivity and manages autonomic withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, anxiety, and elevated blood pressure.

Question 4

Disulfiram (Antabuse) works by inhibiting which enzyme?

Accepted Answer

Aldehyde dehydrogenase

Answer

Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing acetaldehyde accumulation when alcohol is consumed, producing an aversive flushing reaction.

Question 5

A client with bipolar disorder and stimulant use disorder reports their mood stabilizer 'stopped working.' Which phenomenon should the counselor consider?

Accepted Answer

Stimulant use interfering with sleep and mood regulation, mimicking medication failure

Answer

Stimulant use causes sleep disruption and neurochemical dysregulation that can destabilize mood, making mood stabilizers appear ineffective.

CASAC - Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Practice Test

CASAC - Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Practice Test

CASAC Pharmacology & Co-Occurring Disorders 2