Synaptic Transmission & Drugs

Question 1

In what 5 ways do drugs affect synaptic transmission

Answer 1

Release a neurotransmitter
Inhibit the breakdown of a neurotransmitter
Cause the breakdown of a neurotransmitter
Force open a neuroreceptor channel
Close a neuroreceptor channel

Question 2

How does dopamine work under normal conditions?

Answer 2

Dopamine is released into the synaptic cleft where it binds to receptors transmitting signals associated with pleasure and reward. Then it is reabsorbed into the pre synaptic neurone by dopamine transporters

Question 3

How does cocaine work?

Answer 3

Cocaine binds to dopamine transporters on the presynaptic neurone and blocks them, which prevents the reuptake of dopamine and it accumulates in the synaptic cleft which overstimulates the receptors.

Question 4

What are the short term effects of cocaine on neurotransmission?

Answer 4

Intense sense of euphoria, energy is boosted and alertness

Question 5

What are the long term effects of cocaine on neurotransmission?

Answer 5

Down regulation of dopamine receptors. The brain becomes less responsive to dopamine because the neurones reduce number of receptors. This results in tolerance and withdrawal symptoms

Question 6

What are tolerance and withdrawal symptoms of cocaine usage?

Answer 6

Depression, anxiety, fatigue

Question 7

What is cocaine an example of?

Answer 7

Indirect agonist