Comprehensive Guide to Substance Use Disorders: Definitions, Neurobiology, and Treatment Strategies

What is a Substance Use Disorder (SUD)?

A condition involving compulsive use, impaired control, continued use despite consequences, and tolerance/withdrawal.

What is tolerance?

Needing more of a substance to get the same effect.

What is withdrawal?

Symptoms that occur when a person stops or reduces substance use.

What is physical dependence?

The body adapting to a drug so that stopping causes withdrawal.

What major change did the DSM-5 make for SUD?

Combined 'abuse' and 'dependence' into one continuum disorder.

What criterion was added to DSM-5 for SUD?

Cravings.

What is harm reduction?

Strategies to reduce negative consequences of drug use.

What is MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment)?

Use of medications like methadone, Suboxone, or Vivitrol.

Which neurotransmitter is heavily affected by most drugs of abuse?

Dopamine.

What brain change happens with repeated drug use?

The brain reduces dopamine production or receptor availability.

What is a major barrier to treatment among college students?

Stigma.

What type of receptors does cannabis act on?

CB1 (brain) and CB2 (immune system).

Which cognitive function does cannabis impair?

Memory and executive functioning.

What mental health conditions can cannabis worsen?

Psychosis and schizophrenia symptoms.

Is alcohol a stimulant or depressant?

A depressant.

What serious withdrawal condition can alcohol cause?

Delirium tremens (DTs).

Which neurotransmitter does alcohol increase?

GABA.

How does nicotine work in the brain?

Binds to nicotinic receptors and increases neurotransmitter release.

What neurotransmitters do stimulants primarily affect?

Dopamine and norepinephrine.

Name one sign of stimulant intoxication.

Pupil dilation OR tachycardia OR agitation.

Name one symptom of stimulant withdrawal.

Fatigue OR vivid dreams OR increased appetite.

How do opioids work?

Mimic endorphins at receptor sites.

What is a sign of opioid intoxication?

Constricted pupils OR drowsiness.

What is a sign of opioid withdrawal?

Aches, diarrhea, sweating, yawning, fever.

What medication reverses opioid overdose?

Naloxone (Narcan).

What is the only behavioral addiction in the DSM?

Gambling disorder.