National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What neurotransmitter is implicated in mood regulation and is affected by opioids?

1. Serotonin

2. Norepinephrine

3. Acetylcholine

4. Gamma-Amino-Butyric Acid (GABA)

The correct answer is: Serotonin

The correct answer focuses on serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, emotions, and various other physiological functions. Research indicates that opioids can influence the serotonin system, leading to changes in mood and emotional states. Opioids often have an analgesic and euphoric effect, which can be tied to their impact on serotonin levels, as the activation of opioid receptors can increase serotonin release in certain brain regions. Serotonin's involvement in mood regulation makes it particularly relevant when discussing substances that affect emotional well-being. When considering treatment modalities, especially in addiction and mental health, understanding the relationship between opioids and serotonin can help inform therapeutic approaches to address both substance use disorders and co-occurring mood disorders. In contrast, the other neurotransmitters listed, while also important, play different roles in the body. For instance, norepinephrine is primarily involved in the body's stress response; acetylcholine is essential for muscle action and memory function; and GABA serves as the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, involved in reducing neuronal excitability. Each of these neurotransmitters has its own distinct functions but does not directly correlate with the specific effects of opioids on mood in the same way that serotonin does.