PSY100H1 Chapter Notes - Chapter 5.3: Nucleus Accumbens, Tegmentum, Reuptake
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PSY100H1 Full Course Notes
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Document Summary
Serve as agonist (enhances/mimics activity of neurotransmitter) or antagonist (blocks activity of neurotransmitter) Altering of neurotransmitter amount released into synapses. Preventing reuptake of of neurotransmitter once it releases, allowing it to have longer influence on neurons. Blocking receptor of neurotransmitter would normally bind to. Binding to receptor in place of of neurotransmitter. Likelihood of postsynaptic neurons firing is changed. Brain chemical most influenced by drugs is dopamine. Dopamine release in two areas: nucleus accumbens and ventral tegmental area. Drug effects differ because of situations in which drug was consumed changes. Takes time for people to learn to associate taking drug w/ its effects. Marijuana users experience full potency of effects third or fourth time. Effects drugs have change as people use them frequently. Tolerance: repeated use of drug results in need for higher dose to get effect. Brains attempt to keep level of of neurotransmitter stable.
