Question 71

A dopamine agonist, such as amphetamine

Dopamine agonists, particularly amphetamine, can induce symptoms that mimic schizophrenia due to their stimulating effects on the dopaminergic system, leading to increased dopamine activity in the brain.

A) An opioid antagonist, such as naloxone

Opioid antagonists like naloxone primarily block opioid receptors and are not associated with inducing schizophrenia-like symptoms. They are used to reverse opioid overdoses and do not have the same dopaminergic effects as amphetamines.

B) A dopamine agonist, such as amphetamine

This option is correct because dopamine agonists, including amphetamine, can increase dopamine levels in the brain, which is known to exacerbate or mimic symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions.

C) Birth-control pills with estradiol

Birth-control pills containing estradiol are not known to cause schizophrenia-like symptoms. While hormonal changes can influence mood and behavior, they do not typically induce the psychotic symptoms seen in schizophrenia.

D) An antipsychotic that is a dopamine antagonist

Antipsychotics that act as dopamine antagonists are used to treat schizophrenia rather than cause it. They work by blocking dopamine receptors, thus reducing symptoms rather than inducing them.

E) An herbal supplement with oxytocin

Herbal supplements containing oxytocin are unlikely to cause schizophrenia-like symptoms. While oxytocin is involved in social behaviors and emotional regulation, it does not typically trigger psychosis or similar symptoms.

Conclusion

The identification of amphetamines, as a dopamine agonist, as the drug class responsible for inducing schizophrenia-like symptoms is well-supported by their mechanism of action, which heightens dopaminergic activity. Other options fail to align with the core concept of drug-induced psychosis, as they either do not affect dopamine levels or are used to manage rather than cause such symptoms.