LCDC Pharmacology of Addictions 3

Question 1

According to DEA drug scheduling, Schedule I substances are characterized by:

Accepted Answer

High potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use in the US

Answer

Schedule I drugs (e.g., heroin, LSD) have the highest abuse potential, no accepted medical use in the US, and lack accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

Question 2

Naltrexone reduces alcohol cravings and consumption primarily by:

Accepted Answer

Blocking opioid receptors involved in alcohol's reinforcing effects

Answer

Alcohol's reinforcing effects are partly mediated through the endogenous opioid system; naltrexone's opioid receptor blockade reduces the pleasurable effects of alcohol and decreases cravings.

Question 3

Which substance withdrawal syndrome is most likely to be life-threatening without medical management?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol withdrawal

Answer

Alcohol withdrawal can progress to delirium tremens with life-threatening seizures and cardiovascular instability; opioid and cannabis withdrawal, while uncomfortable, are rarely fatal.

Question 4

Acamprosate (Campral) is used in alcohol use disorder treatment primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Reduce post-acute withdrawal symptoms and cravings by modulating glutamate activity

Answer

Acamprosate modulates NMDA glutamate receptors to reduce the neurological hyperexcitability that causes post-acute withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and alcohol cravings.

Question 5

Which route of drug administration generally produces the fastest onset of action?

Accepted Answer

Intravenous injection

Answer

Intravenous injection delivers the drug directly into the bloodstream, bypassing absorption barriers, and produces effects within seconds, making it associated with high addiction potential.

LCDC - Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Practice Test

LCDC - Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Practice Test

LCDC Pharmacology of Addictions 3