8.5.3 Addiction and Dependence

• Addiction and dependence are related but distinct concepts
• Addiction is characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding behaviors despite adverse consequences.
• Dependence refers to a state where the body relies on a substance to function normally
• Dependence always leads to addiction.

  False
• Match the characteristic with its concept:

  Compulsive behavior despite harm ↔️ Addiction

  Withdrawal symptoms when substance is stopped ↔️ Dependence
• A person can be dependent on a medication without being addicted.
• Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter that drives the brain's reward system
• Serotonin imbalances can contribute to seeking addictive substances.
• GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that can be affected by substances, leading to dependence
• Steps involved in the reward pathway in the brain:

  1️⃣ Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA) produces dopamine

  2️⃣ Nucleus Accumbens receives dopamine, producing pleasure

  3️⃣ Prefrontal Cortex manages planning and decision-making
• Addictive substances cause a surge in dopamine release, overriding normal reward processes.
• What is the role of the prefrontal cortex in the reward pathway?

  Manages planning and decision-making
• Dopamine is the primary neurotransmitter that transmits signals along the reward pathway
• Dopamine release is triggered only by substances like drugs.

  False
• What does dopamine reinforce when released in the brain?

  Behaviors creating pleasure
• Addictive substances cause a surge in dopamine release, overriding normal reward processes
• Addiction is primarily a psychological condition characterized by compulsive behavior despite harm.
• What is dependence in the context of substance use?

  Body relies on substance
• Dopamine is a key driver of the brain's reward system
• Imbalances in serotonin levels can contribute to drug-seeking behavior.
• What is the role of GABA in the brain?

  Inhibits brain activity
• Endorphins are natural painkillers that contribute to feelings of pleasure
• Components of the reward pathway in order of signal transmission

  1️⃣ Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA)

  2️⃣ Nucleus Accumbens

  3️⃣ Prefrontal Cortex
• The ventral tegmental area (VTA) is responsible for producing dopamine.
• Which brain region receives dopamine and produces feelings of pleasure?

  Nucleus Accumbens
• Dopamine is released during rewarding activities, reinforcing the associated behaviors
• In addiction, dopamine release is triggered by natural rewards only.

  False
• What is tolerance in the context of substance use?

  Adaptation requiring more substance
• Withdrawal symptoms occur when a substance is stopped or reduced
• Withdrawal symptoms are purely physical.

  False
• Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the brain's reward pathway?

  Dopamine
• Drugs increase dopamine levels more intensely than natural rewards
• Addiction is a physical condition requiring medical treatment.

  False
• What is the primary focus of dependence in substance use?

  Physical reliance on substance
• What is the key neurotransmitter in the brain's reward pathway?

  Dopamine
• Dopamine is released in the nucleus accumbens during pleasurable activities.
• Dopamine is only released during drug use.

  False
• What is the key role of dopamine in addiction?

  Drives reward and pleasure
• What role does serotonin play in addiction?

  Mood and impulse control
• Substances that enhance GABA lead to calming effects and dependence.