2024 Addiction Medicine Board Certification Review Course-2024 - A Genetic and Neurobiologic Understanding of Addiction

2024 - A Genetic and Neurobiologic Understanding of Addiction

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Steve Wyatt, an addiction psychiatrist based in North Carolina, delves into the genetic and neurobiological aspects of addiction. He highlights the interplay between conscious behavior and stimulus response, emphasizing the importance of understanding genetic underpinnings and the neurobiology of addiction. Addiction is described as a chronic relapsing disorder involving compulsive drug-seeking behavior due to changes in brain circuitry, particularly the reward and stress pathways. Dr. Wyatt explores how dopamine, neurotransmitters, and brain regions like the nucleus accumbens contribute to addiction. Factors such as genetic vulnerabilities, childhood trauma, and brain development influence the risk of substance use disorders. Treatment options, including medications and behavioral interventions, are discussed to address the biopsychosocial aspects of addiction. The session underscores the chronic nature of addiction and the need for ongoing support and personalized treatment strategies to manage this complex condition effectively.

Keywords

addiction

genetic underpinnings

neurobiology

brain circuitry

dopamine

nucleus accumbens

substance use disorders

behavioral interventions

personalized treatment