Lec 45 Stimulants, Anorexigenics, Hallucinogens

Question 1

What is mech of action cocaine and amphetamine-like drugs?

Answer 1

increase synaptic levels of DA, NE, 5HT [primarily via inhibiting reuptake transporters]

stimulant activity + addiction = mostly due to dopamine

Question 2

What is mech of action of cocaine?

Answer 2

directly inhibit DAT reuptake inhibitor

Question 3

What are the 3 exceptions to rule that stimulants increase synaptic level of catecholamiens or serotonin by inhibiting reuptake or increasing release?

Answer 3

• modafinil
• caffeine
• nicotine

Question 4

What is mech of action amphetamines?

Answer 4

• substrate of NT reuptake transporters –> interfere with uptake
• ALSO increase synaptic transmitter release

Question 5

What is antibipatory effect of cocaine?

Answer 5

with repeat exposure –> have anticipatory effect on nucleus acumbens

–> after exposure to cocaine, placebo saline can even cause DA release

Question 6

Do amphetamines or cocaine have longer half life?

Answer 6

amphetamines

Question 7

Which amphetamine has lower abuse potential than others? why?

Answer 7

because longer half life [~20 hr]

Question 8

What is difference in amphetamines stereoisomers?

Answer 8

• D more potent for CNS, L for ANS

amphetamine prescription = 75% D
methamphetamine = 100% D

Question 9

What is affect of stimulant withdrawal system?

Answer 9

• post-use “crash” –> depression, lethargy, weight gain, headache

Question 10

What are signs specific to amphetamine withdrawal?

Answer 10

• anhedonia, increased appetite, hypersomnolence

Question 11

What are signs specific to cocaine withdrawal?

Answer 11

• hypersomnolence, malaise, severe psychological craving, depression/suicidality

Question 12

What are flashbacks?

Answer 12

longterm visual disturbances int ~4% of former users

Question 13

What is effect of antimuscarnic hallucinogens?

Answer 13

parasympatholytic autonomic effects

Question 14

What is action of endocannabinoids?

Answer 14

synthesized but not stored and released from cell bodies of stimulates neurons, diffuse retrograde across synaptic cleft to act on CB1 receptor of afferent nerve terminal

Question 15

What are effects of inhalants [volatile solvents, NO, glue, etc]?

Answer 15

• euphoria, ataxia, hallucination, seizure

- toxicity: cerebellar degeneration, renal tubular acidosis, arrhythmias, myocarditis, cognitive decline

Question 16

What are the 2 major stimulants used to treat ADHD?

Answer 16

methylphenidate

amphteamine