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Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the acute reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse?

A) Dopamine
B) GABA
C) Glutamate
D) Opioid peptides

User P Basak
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Dopamine is the neurotransmitter primarily associated with the acute reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse.

Step-by-step explanation:

The neurotransmitter primarily associated with the acute reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse is dopamine (A).

When drugs of abuse, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or opioids, are consumed, they lead to an increase in dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is involved in the brain's reward pathway, which is responsible for feelings of pleasure and reinforcement. Therefore, the acute reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse are primarily mediated by dopamine.

For example, cocaine impairs the reuptake of dopamine and causes more dopamine to be released into the synaptic cleft, leading to an increase in dopamine levels.

User Austin Harris
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