PSYC 2012 Lecture Notes - Lecture 40: Methamphetamine, Mesolimbic Pathway, Amygdala
Document Summary
): psychopharmacology and the basis of drug addiction. Other main effect is producing feelings of euphoria or intense calm pleasure. Ex. opium, codeine, morphine, oxycontin vicodin and heroin. Side effects include constipation, drowsiness, and nausea. Opioids bind to the mu endorphin receptors and inhibit neurotransmitter release. By inhibiting release of neurotransmitters involved in pain like substance p in pain centers, opioids act as painkillers. In the mesolimbic pathway, opioid binding causes increased release of dopamine by vta and increased dopamine responsiveness in the nucleus accumbens increasing both wanting and liking of reward, which may be why they are so addictive. Increase motor behavior and alertness and elevate mood. Side effects include anxiety, insomnia, paranoia, and irritability. Nicotine: acts as an acetylcholine agonist, increasing stimulation of muscles and arousal in the brain. It also stimulates dopaminergic neurons to release dopamine by binding to acetylcholine receptors on dopaminergic neurons and activating them. Amphetamines and cocaine: inhibit reuptake of dopamine.
