Which receptor subtype is associated with dysphoria and hallucinations as systemic effects?

Which receptor subtype is associated with dysphoria and hallucinations as systemic effects?

• A. Mu
• B. Delta
• C. Kappa
• D. All of the above

Answer: (C)

Dysphoria and hallucinations come from activating the kappa opioid receptor. When this receptor is stimulated, especially in brain regions that regulate mood and perception, the result tends to be unpleasant and dissociative experiences, including hallucinations. In contrast, mu receptor activation is mainly associated with strong analgesia and euphoria (the rewarding effect), while delta receptor effects are more modest and mood-modulating without the pronounced dysphoria or psychotomimetic effects. So among the receptor subtypes, the kappa receptor best explains systemic dysphoria and hallucinations.

Dysphoria and hallucinations come from activating the kappa opioid receptor. When this receptor is stimulated, especially in brain regions that regulate mood and perception, the result tends to be unpleasant and dissociative experiences, including hallucinations. In contrast, mu receptor activation is mainly associated with strong analgesia and euphoria (the rewarding effect), while delta receptor effects are more modest and mood-modulating without the pronounced dysphoria or psychotomimetic effects. So among the receptor subtypes, the kappa receptor best explains systemic dysphoria and hallucinations.