The Basics
This chronic disease affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and memory systems, leading to compulsive substance use
What is addiction
True or false: You have to hit "rock bottom" before seeking treatment
What is false
This widely available medication can reverse an opioid overdose and save lives
What is naloxone (Narcan)
This neurotransmitter helps with stress and alertness but can be depleted by long-term stimulant use.
What is norepinephrine
This type of medication-assisted treatment uses opioid-based medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
What is Opiate Agonist Therapy (OAT)
Contrary to popular belief, addiction is not simply a lack of willpower but involves changes in this organ
What is the brain
True or false: If someone relapses, it means treatment has failed
What is false
The "Good Samaritan Act" protects people from arrest under what circumstances?
What is reporting an overdose
Dopamine is the main neurotransmitter associated with addiction, but this other neurotransmitter regulates mood and is affected by drugs like MDMA and LSD.
What is serotonin
This long-acting opioid agonist is one of the most common medications used in OAT and is taken once daily
What is methadone
This neurotransmitter, often associated with pleasure and reward, is released in large amounts when using addictive substances
What is dopamine
Many believe this legal drug is less harmful than other substances, but it is responsible for more deaths than opioids
What is alcohol
This is the number one risk associated with overdose deaths
What is using alone
Long-term substance use can shrink this part of the brain responsible for memory and learning
What is the hippocampus
This partial opioid agonist, often combined with naloxone, helps prevent withdrawal symptoms and has a lower risk of overdose than methadone
What is buprenorphine (or Suboxone)
The first step in treating addiction often involves safely removing a substance from the body, a process known as this
What is detoxification
Some believe this common stimulant is not addictive, but quitting can lead to headaches, fatigue, and irritability
What is caffeine
Mixing opioids with this type of drug, often prescribed for anxiety, increases the risk of overdose
What are benzodiazepines
This part of the brainstem controls vital functions like breathing and heart rate, which can slow down dangerously during an overdose
What is the medulla
Unlike full opioid agonists, buprenorphine has this type of effect, meaning it activates opioid receptors but with a ceiling effect
What is partial agonist
Repeated drug use can weaken this part of the brain, responsible for decision-making and impulse control
What is the prefrontal cortex
This term describes how OAT allows individuals to function normally in society, work, and maintain relationships
What is stabilization
These are three other risk factors of overdose
Decreased tolerance, mixing substances, IV use, starting with a high dose, not testing
Alcohol and benzodiazepines enhance the effects of this inhibitory neurotransmitter, causing relaxation and sedation
What is GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)
OAT programs are often paired with this type of therapy to support long-term recovery
What is counseling or behavioral therapy