Substance abuse psych EXAM 2

what drug do we give to prevent and avoid severe withdrawal from alcohol and delirium tremens?

chlordiazepoxide (librium)

what drug do we use to treat delirium tremens?

Iv or injectable lorazepam

what drug do we give to treat seizures from alcohol withdrawal?

propofol (sedative)

symptoms of delirium tremens

confusion, hallucinations (tactile and visual), autonomic instability, and hands shaking

dopamins

central to brains reward system and pleasure , elevated levels causes feelings of euphoria

GABA

relaxes and calms, increased gaba activity with sedative substances

glutamate

regulates learning and memory, chronic substance abuse disrupts its balance

serotonin

affects mood, sleep, and impulsivity

alcohol is?

a CNS depressant and activates GABA which makes you feel relaxed, also activates dopamine which increases euphoric feeling

alcohol decreases what neurotransmitters?

glutamate (slows reflexes/bad decisions), norepinephrine, serotonin which creates depressed effect

stimulates increase what neurotransmitters?

serotonin, norepinephrine, DOPAMINE which increases alertness and energy

opioids MOA

activate opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to reduce pain and increase relaxation and sedation

benzodiazepines enhance?

GABA which slows down the brain activity

alcohol withdrawal symptoms

tremors, sweating, agitation, seizures, hallucinations, and increased HR

depression

substance use can exacerbate depressive symptoms or develop as a way to self-medicate

anxiety disorders

alcohol and benzos are often used to reduce anxiety but lead to dependance

BIpolar disorder

high rates of co-occurence, particularly with alcohol and stimulant use

PTSD

substances are commonly misused to cope with trauma related symptoms

dual diagnosis

simultaneous treatment of mental health and substance use disorders to combat these issues its the best approach