The Neuroscience Behind the Compulsion to Use Substances

Course overview

0202-0000-26-222-L01-P 0202-0000-26-222-L01-T Substance use disorder (SUD) is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual's life experiences. These interactions impact the brain's reward, motivation, and memory circuits which cause people with SUD to experience powerful cravings, a loss of control over their behaviors, a reduced ability to recognize the negative consequences of their actions. Like other chronic illnesses, SUDs are marked by persistent cycles of relapse and remission, and effective treatments requires participation in ongoing recovery maintenance. This presentation will delve into the pathophysiology mechanisms underlying substance use disorder behavior that deepen the application of pharmacy practice to advance public health through treating addiction.