Drugs of Abuse: CNS Depressants

These flashcards cover key concepts related to CNS depressants, specifically focusing on opioids and their properties, uses, and effects.

What is the most potent opioid?

Fentanyl

What is the therapeutic use of opioids?

Opioids are used for pain relief and have a variety of medicinal applications.

What classifies a substance as a narcotic?

A narcotic is any substance that dulls the senses and relieves pain.

What is the half-life of heroin?

Heroin has a very short half-life of approximately 3 minutes.

Which opioid is considered to have the lowest degree of liking?

Buprenorphine is considered to have the least liking among opioids.

What is the classification of heroin?

Heroin is classified as a Schedule I drug, meaning it has no accepted medical use.

What are the main routes of administration for naloxone?

Naloxone can be administered intravenously, intramuscularly, and intranasally.

What is methylnaltrexone used for?

Methylnaltrexone is used for treating opioid-induced constipation.

How do opioids generally affect the body?

Opioids activate Gi-coupled receptors, decreasing cAMP production and neuronal excitability.

What are some common physiological effects of opioid overuse?

Opioid overuse can lead to respiratory depression, dependence, and addiction.

What are benzodiazepines often used to treat?

Benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety, seizures, withdrawal states, and insomnia.

What are potential outcomes of chronic alcohol use?

Chronic alcohol use can lead to liver cirrhosis, alcoholic dementia, and vitamin deficiencies.

What role do GABA receptors play in the action of opioids?

Opioids inhibit GABA release, leading to an increase in dopamine release.

What is naloxone's role in opioid overdose?

Naloxone is used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose and respiratory depression.

What is the self-reported risk associated with benzodiazepine addiction?

Long-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to physical dependence.

Which opioid has a half-life reported in Minutes?

Methadone has a half-life that can range from 8 to 59 hours.

What is the route and dosage for naloxone in adults during an overdose?

Adults can receive 0.4-2 mg of naloxone; repeat doses may be given every 2-3 minutes.