Biological interventions are frequently used to reduce addiction. Which one of the following statements correctly describes the mechanism of action of drug therapies used in managing substance addiction?
Agonists (such as methadone) bind to and activate specific receptors to mimic the drug's effects with a slower, safer release, while antagonists (such as naltrexone) bind to and block these receptors, preventing the addictive substance from producing a euphoric effect.
Agonists (such as disulfiram) alter metabolic enzymes to produce rapid, highly unpleasant physical symptoms when alcohol is consumed, while antagonists (such as nicotine patches) deliver steady low-dose stimulation of target receptors.
Agonists (such as naltrexone) chemically degrade neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft to reduce cravings, while antagonists (such as methadone) increase the rate of reuptake to quickly clear the synapse.
Agonists (such as buprenorphine) permanently desensitise post-synaptic receptors to eliminate long-term tolerance, while antagonists (such as varenicline) act as aversive agents by inducing vomiting when paired with the target behavior.
48 exam-style questions on AQA A Level Psychology Reducing addiction. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.