recreational drugs

• reward pathway?

  circuits of structures/nerves that are linked to activity of specific neurotransmitters. (particularly dopamine)
• dopamine?

  activated by natural rewarding behaviours (sex/food).
• cocaine?

  highly addictive stimulant and disrupts functioning of dopamine:

  • cocaine blocks transporter receptors on pre-SN from dopamine in the VTA (ventral tegmental area) in the midbrain
  • as a result pre-SN don't reuptake dopamine so it remains in the synaptic cleft for longer.
  • prolongs/intensifies stimulation of post-SN
  • VTA activates another area in the brain that's associated with euphoric feelings (intense pleasure)