Dopamine (DA) is an important brain neurotransmitter; and especially
significant in the process of addiction. Dopamine has been implicated in its involvement
in motor functioning, cognitive functioning, as well as pleasure and reward
systems. Its role in the reward system is integral and ultimately defines
addiction. It does this in that much of the physical adaptations and
psychosocial aspects are derived from the alteration in dopamine levels and
their effect on dopaminergic neurons.
Substances associated with the disease of addiction often do
so based on their effects on the dopaminergic system. Some chemicals act as
dopamine agonists whereby they themselves act and bind as dopamine would in the
body. Others are known for their ability to block the reuptake of dopamine and
therefore produce higher concentrations than natural. Certain chemicals can
also effect dopamine production and/or release that naturally occur within our
systems. Regardless of the mechanism in which these chemicals use the end
result is a higher amount of activation on the dopaminergic neurons.
Because dopamine plays an integral part in the brain’s
reward system chemicals that have these effects can become highly addictive and
produce other effects associated with increased dopamine levels such as
hallucinations, delusions, and psychosis.
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