Drugs of abuse Flashcards
5 signs of dependence syndrome
progressive neglect of other interests tolerance physical withdrawal state persistance despite detrimental effects difficulties controlling use
which drugs target the dopamine path and where do they act
VTA (mesolimbic dopamine pathway) drugs enhance dopamine here
cocaine, amphetamines, opiods (disinhibition of gaba)
Effects of opiates
analgesta, euphoria, resp depression, dyphoria, sedation
CHRONIC - constipation , depression, insomnia
TOLERANCE WITHDRAWAL
Action of cocaine
blocks Na channels - anaesthetic
inhibs DA reuptake
Do you get dependance with cocaine
not physical but physological
effect of amphetamines
wakefulness, decreased fatigue, performance enhancing, increased libido, self estreem
release monoamines and blocks reuptake Da NA 5HT
what can a chronic dose of amphetamines cause
increased CV tone, psychosis
how does cannabis work
THC mimics effect of endogenous lipid molecules. inhibs NT release in brain and periphery via G Prot canabanoid receptors
How does cannabis stimulate hunger
feeding centres in the hypothalamus
alcohol
- how does it work
- what causes excitatory effects
- CNS depressant , blocks glutamate
2. disinhibition
symptoms of alcohol withdrawal?
confusion, delusions, visual hallucinations, CV collapse
what is methadone used for
to treat opiate abuse, opiate agonist. blocks effect of opiate.
What are naltrexone and mecamylamine used for? downside to them?
antagonists of opioids and nicotine respectively.
patient just has to take more of the drug to overcome them
acamprosate, naltrexone are used for what?
anti craving in alcohol withdrawal
