LCDC Pharmacology of Addictions

Question 1

Which neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for the reinforcing effects of most addictive substances in the brain's reward pathway?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Dopamine release in the mesolimbic pathway (nucleus accumbens) is the primary mechanism underlying the reinforcing and rewarding effects of addictive drugs.

Question 2

What is the primary mechanism of action of methadone in treating opioid use disorder?

Accepted Answer

Full agonist at mu-opioid receptors with long half-life

Answer

Methadone is a full mu-opioid receptor agonist with a long half-life (24–36 hours), which prevents withdrawal and reduces cravings without producing the rapid euphoric peaks of shorter-acting opioids.

Question 3

Which medication causes an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed and is used as a deterrent in treating alcohol use disorder?

Accepted Answer

Disulfiram

Answer

Disulfiram inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, causing acetaldehyde accumulation when alcohol is consumed, resulting in flushing, nausea, and palpitations.

Question 4

A drug's 'half-life' is best defined as:

Accepted Answer

The time it takes for the body to eliminate half of the drug's concentration

Answer

Half-life is the time required for the plasma concentration of a drug to decrease by 50%, which determines dosing frequency and how long the drug remains active in the body.

Question 5

Which class of drugs produces CNS depressant effects primarily by enhancing the activity of GABA receptors?

Accepted Answer

Benzodiazepines

Answer

Benzodiazepines bind to GABA-A receptors and enhance the inhibitory effect of GABA, producing sedation, anxiolysis, and anticonvulsant effects.

LCDC - Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Practice Test

LCDC - Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Practice Test

LCDC Pharmacology of Addictions