cocaine works by blocking the re-absorption of dopamine by the synapse. this causes lots of dopamine to build up in the synaptic gap which can then reattach to the post-synaptic receptors; speeding up the rate of reactions
1 of 9
What area of the brain is targeted by this?
Nucleus accumbens
2 of 9
Agonist or antagonist?
Agonist because increases post-synaptic impulses
3 of 9
Stimulant or depressant?
Stimulant because accelerates psychological activity e.g. makes heart beat faster
4 of 9
Psychological effects
last around 15 minutes: euphoria, energy, alertness, confidence
5 of 9
Physical effects
increased heart rate and blood pressure, pupil dilation
6 of 9
Tolerance
develops quickly but doesn't increase once hits a certain level of tolerance. down regulation occurs (amount of dopamine receptors decreases)
7 of 9
Withdrawal
last 1-2 weeks and are mainly emotional: depression, anxiety, anger, insomnia
8 of 9
Dependence
the reduction of dopamine receptors reduces the control of emotion which means the addicts feel the need the drug to be happy
Comments
No comments have yet been made