What is the AKT1 gene and how does it affect your risk of developing psychosis in response to MJ?
AKT1 gene governs and enzyme that regulated Dopamine. IF you have AKT1 c/c variant, then you are 7x more likely to develop psychosis with MJ.
What is the function of COMT gene as it pertains to psychosis?
COMT gene governs an enzyme that breaks down Dopamine. You can have Met/Met, Met/Val or Val/Val….the more Val variant you have the greater chance of developing Schizophrenia if used Mj as an adolescent.
What are the two well studied genes that imparts increased risk of psychosis in marijuana use?
AKT1 gene (c/c variant)
AND
COMT gene (met/val and val/val variants)
What are the classic symptoms of stimulant withdrawal?
- Fatigue
- Vivid, unpleasant dreams
- Increased appetite
- psychomotor retardation or agitation
What is the main mechanism of action of Cocaine, in what area of brain?
Transient increase in DA levels in dopaminergic neurons from Ventral Tegmental area to the nucleus accumbent by blocking DA repuptake
What is the inactive metabolite of cocaine that is detected in Urine Drug test?
BE (benzoylecgonine)
Are there any FDA approved medications for cocaine use disorder?
NO
Although not supported by evidence, athletes who abuse anabolic steroids employ what three strategies to reduce unwanted SE and maximize effect.
Cycling - Taking for a period, then stopping, then restarting
Stacking - taking several different types at once.
Pyramiding- slowly increasing dose and frequency, then tapering it back down.
What are the potential SEs of Anabolic Steroids that both men and women share?
- HA
- Acne
- Stroke/MI/blood clots
- Liver and Kidney damage
- Mood swings, rage, aggression
- Impotence
- Joint problem
- Increase tendon injury
What SE of anabolic steroids are unique to women vs men?
Women (masculinization)
- Facial/body hair
- Enlarged clitoris
- Decreased breasts
- Menstrual irregularity
- Deep voice
Men (feminization)
- Breasts
- Shrinking testicles
- Enlarged prostate
- Decreased sperm count
- Baldness
