Pharmacology exam 1 review

What is psychopharmacology?

The study of how drugs affect the brain, body, and behavior.

What is the difference between drug use and drug abuse?

Use = Taking a drug, not always harmful; Abuse = Causes harm (physical, mental, social, legal).

What are the 3 main factors that shape a person’s drug experience?

1) Drug itself, 2) The person, 3) The setting/environment.

What are the most common drugs used in the U.S.?

Alcohol, tobacco, marijuana.

What is polydrug use?

Using more than one drug at the same time.

What is tolerance?

Needing more of the drug to get the same effect.

What is withdrawal?

Negative symptoms when stopping or reducing drug use.

What does DSM-5 say about substance disorders?

Combines 'abuse' and 'dependence' → now called substance use disorder with 11 criteria.

Why study the history of drug use?

Helps explain cultural attitudes, laws, and why drugs are used today.

What is an example of historical use of drugs?

Opium used in ancient civilizations for pain relief.

What is the trend in modern drug use?

High rates of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana; ongoing opioid crisis.

What’s the role of the nervous system in drug use?

Drugs affect how brain cells (neurons) communicate.

What are neurotransmitters?

Brain chemicals that send messages (like dopamine, serotonin).

How do drugs act on neurotransmitters?

They can increase, block, or mimic them.

What are the main parts of the nervous system?

Central (brain & spinal cord) + Peripheral (nerves in body).

What are the 4 steps of how drugs move through the body?

1) Absorption, 2) Distribution, 3) Metabolism, 4) Excretion.

What is a dose–response curve?

Graph showing how drug effect changes with dose.

What is a half-life?

Time it takes for the drug level in body to drop by half.

What is psychopharmacology?

Study of how drugs affect behavior, thinking, mood.

What’s involved in new drug development?

Testing safety, effectiveness, side effects before approval.

Why is placebo important in research?

Shows if effects are from the drug or just expectation.

What are the 3 psychological factors in recovery?

Motivation to change, self-confidence (self-efficacy), coping skills.

What are the 2 main types of treatment for substance use disorders?

1) Medication (e.g., methadone, buprenorphine); 2) Therapy (CBT, motivational interviewing).

What is relapse in the context of substance use?

Returning to drug use after a period of stopping.

Is relapse considered a failure?

No—common part of recovery process.

What is the Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA)?

Treatment that changes lifestyle and uses family/community support.

What are the DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorder?

11 total → grouped as impaired control, social problems, risky use, physical dependence.

What is the impact of drugs on neurons?

They affect how brain cells communicate.

What role do dopamine and serotonin play?

They are neurotransmitters that send messages in the brain.

How do drugs alter neurotransmitter function?

By increasing, blocking, or mimicking their actions.

What is the significance of studying drug trends?

To identify patterns in substance use and associated issues.

What constitutes drug abuse?

Using drugs to the extent that it causes harm.

Can drug use be harmless?

Yes, drug use is not always harmful.

What conditions are often treated with medication in substance use disorders?

Addiction and dependence issues.

How is recovery from substance use defined?

Achieving and maintaining drug abstinence and improved mental health.

What is the role of self-efficacy in recovery?

Belief in one's ability to achieve change.

What are the components of effective therapy for substance use?

Coping mechanisms and motivation enhancement.

What does a successful dose–response curve demonstrate?

The relationship between drug dosage and its effects.

What is meant by metabolism in pharmacology?

The body's process of breaking down drugs.

How is drug testing performed for new drugs?

Through rigorous evaluations of safety and effectiveness.

Which substances are currently associated with high rates of use?

Alcohol, marijuana, tobacco.

What defines physical dependence?

The body’s adaptation to a drug leading to withdrawal symptoms.

What are some examples of coping skills for recovery?

Stress management techniques and problem-solving strategies.

What societal factors influence drug use?

Cultural attitudes, legal regulations, availability.

Why is motivation critical in the recovery process?

It drives the willingness to change and seek treatment.

What is meant by impaired control in substance use disorder?

Difficulty in controlling drug use despite negative consequences.

How can family involvement aid recovery?

Provides support and encourages positive lifestyle changes.

Why are rates of polydrug use concerning?

Increases the risk of harmful effects and complications.

What distinguishes a substance use disorder from casual drug use?

Substance use disorder results in significant impairment or distress.

What is the effect of community support on treatment outcomes?

It enhances accountability and motivation for recovery.

What must researchers consider when developing new drugs?

Safety, potential side effects, and effectiveness.

What does 'excretion' refer to in drug pharmacokinetics?

The process of eliminating drugs from the body.

How can analysis of a dose-response curve inform dosing regimens?

Helps determine the most effective and safe dose of a drug.