Addiction

Question 1

What are the main neurotransmitters involved in the biology of addiction?

Answer 1

• GABA - inhibitory neurotransmitter, calming pathways
  
  • Alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, solvents act via GABAergic mechanisms
  • Opioids also induce opioid release indirectly via decreasing GABAergic inhibition
• Dopamine - reward pathways, processes that control movement, emotional response, pleasure/pain pathways
  
  • Opioids induce dopamine release via mu receptors. Amphetamines displace dopamine from nerve terminals

Question 2

What are the principles of harm minimisation in relation to substance misuse?

Answer 2

• Drug use will continue to be part of society
  
  • Eradication is impossible
  • Continued eradication attempts may result in increased harm to society
  • Strategies
    
    • Supply reduction
    • Demand reduction - e.g. health promotion, providing alternatives, price controls
    • Harm reduction