Cocaine

Question 1

Why is cocaine used recreationally?

Answer 1

It gives the user feelings of euphoria, self confidence, energy and alertness

Question 2

What is a ‘crash’?

Answer 2

When the drug wears off and the pleasurable effects make it highly addictive

Question 3

What are the effects of cocaine on the neurotransmission process?

Answer 3

Cocaine prevents the transporters from being absorbed by the neutrons that released them
> increases their concentration in the synapses
> feelings of euphoria
As a result
> natural effect of dopamine in postsynaptic is amplified
Produced:
> more DEPENDENCY (from dopamine)
> feelings of CONFIDENCE (from serotonin)
> energy (from norepinephrine)

Question 4

Which neurotransmitters are affected by cocaine and how?

Answer 4

Cocaine blocks the binding site of the reuptake receptors and stops the reuptake of dopamine back into the presynaptic neuron

> this means excess dopamine in the synapse, leading to over-stimulation at the postsynaptic receptors

Question 5

Does cocaine cause dependency and withdrawal symptoms?

Answer 5

» in chronic users, the brain comes to reply on cocaine to maintain a high degree of pleasure (associated with the artificially elevated levels of some neurotransmitters in its reward circuits)
» overstimulation of dopamine receptors of postsynaptic neuron –> they become damaged and fewer –> Resulting increased sensitivity –> depression & cravings

» dependency is closely related to its effect on the neurons of the reward circuit