LCAS Pharmacology of Addictive Substances 2

Question 1

Benzodiazepines produce their sedative and anxiolytic effects through which primary mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Enhancing GABA-A receptor chloride ion channel activity

Answer

Blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the striatum

Answer

Stimulating norepinephrine release from the locus coeruleus

Answer

Inhibiting serotonin reuptake in the prefrontal cortex

Question 2

Which statement accurately describes the pharmacology of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)?

Accepted Answer

THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and CB2 receptors in peripheral tissues

Answer

THC produces its effects by stimulating opioid receptors

Answer

Cannabis has no potential for dependence or withdrawal

Answer

THC primarily blocks dopamine reuptake transporters

Question 3

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) produces its characteristic empathogenic effects primarily through which neurotransmitter?

Accepted Answer

Massive release of serotonin along with dopamine and norepinephrine

Answer

Massive release of opioid peptides

Answer

GABA receptor stimulation

Answer

Cannabinoid receptor agonism

Question 4

Which medication used in opioid use disorder treatment is classified as a partial agonist at the mu-opioid receptor?

Accepted Answer

Buprenorphine

Answer

Methadone

Answer

Naloxone

Answer

Naltrexone

Question 5

Naloxone reverses opioid overdose through which pharmacological mechanism?

Accepted Answer

It competitively antagonizes opioid receptors, displacing opioids

Answer

It enhances GABA activity to counteract opioid-induced CNS depression

Answer

It directly stimulates the brainstem respiratory center

Answer

It accelerates hepatic opioid metabolism

Question 6

Which substance class poses the greatest risk of life-threatening withdrawal without medical management?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol and benzodiazepines

Answer

Opioids used in isolation

Answer

Cannabis

Answer

Stimulants such as cocaine

Question 7

The 'kindling' phenomenon in alcohol use disorder refers to:

Accepted Answer

Progressive worsening of withdrawal severity with each subsequent detoxification episode

Answer

Increased craving triggered by environmental drug-related cues

Answer

Accelerated spread of addiction from alcohol to other substances

Answer

Initial sensitization to the pleasurable effects of alcohol