Drug Misuse and Addiction Lecture Review

These flashcards provide a review of key concepts, historical context, and elements influencing drug misuse and addiction, based on the lecture notes.

What are the main topics covered in the lecture about drug misuse and addiction?

The lecture covers why certain drugs are a 'trap', the fantasy, craving, wanting circuit, and whether tanning addiction exists.

What is a psychoactive drug?

A psychoactive drug is consumed voluntarily and can be used in a problematic way, known as 'drug misuse'.

What was the percentage of the U.S. population that used an illicit drug at least once in the last year?

21% of the U.S. population used an illicit drug at least once in the last year.

What significant developments in drug history occurred in the 1820s?

Drugs such as alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, and opium became widely available.

What was the purpose of the 1914 Harrison Act?

The 1914 Harrison Act regulated opiates and cocaine.

What is the Controlled Substances Act of 1970?

The Controlled Substances Act classified addictive drugs into five categories based on their medical use and abuse potential.

What defines substance use disorder according to the DSM-5?

Substance use disorder is characterized by cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating continued use despite significant problems.

What are the core stages in the neurobiology of addiction?

The three stages are escalating use, preoccupation with using, and withdrawal.

What is meant by the term 'gateway theory' in drug use progression?

Gateway theory suggests individuals start with using less harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco before advancing to marijuana and then harder drugs.

What impact do fast routes of administration have on addiction potential?

Fast routes such as intravenous or inhalation result in quicker onset of drug action, leading to greater addiction potential due to stronger euphoric effects.

What is the significance of the reward circuit in addiction?

The reward circuit mediates the rewarding and reinforcing effects of most drugs, significantly affecting drug-seeking behavior.

In what ways can genetics influence addiction risk?

Genetics can account for 40-60% of the risk for developing substance use disorders, with different drugs showing varying heritability.

What is 'incentive sensitization theory'?

Incentive sensitization theory distinguishes between liking (pleasurable experiences) and wanting (motivational aspects) of rewards.

What factors may contribute to natural recovery from addiction?

Factors include transitional life events, negative consequences of drug use, and the establishment of new social networks.

Why is addiction often considered a chronic, relapsing behavioral disorder?

Addiction is characterized by remissions followed by relapses, with compulsive drug-seeking behaviors and cravings.