Final answer:
Drugs can alter synaptic transmission by affecting the release, binding, and removal of neurotransmitters. For example, THC in marijuana mimics the effects of neurotransmitters by binding to receptors. Drugs used to treat Alzheimer's disease can inhibit the degradation of neurotransmitters, increasing their availability in the synapse.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drugs can alter synaptic transmission in several ways. They can affect the release of neurotransmitters, the binding of neurotransmitters to receptors, and the removal of neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft. For example, drugs like THC in marijuana can bind to neurotransmitter receptors, mimicking the effects of naturally occurring neurotransmitters. Other drugs, such as those used to treat Alzheimer's disease, can inhibit enzymes that degrade neurotransmitters, increasing their availability in the synapse.