Naltrexone is used in the management of alcohol dependence. Its therapeutic effect in this indication is mediated by blockade of which receptor, reducing the rewarding effects of alcohol?
- A Delta opioid receptor
- B Kappa opioid receptor
- C Mu opioid receptor ✓
- D Nociceptin receptor
Correct answer: C. Mu opioid receptor
Explanation
Naltrexone is a competitive antagonist at mu opioid receptors. Alcohol consumption releases endogenous opioids that activate mu receptors in the mesolimbic reward pathway. By blocking mu receptors, naltrexone reduces the reinforcing and pleasurable effects of alcohol, decreasing craving and relapse. This is the same receptor it blocks in opioid overdose.
Reference: Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 14th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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