Final answer:
Stimulants disrupt the neural transmitter system by acting as agonists of the dopamine system, increasing neural activity by allowing dopamine to accumulate in the synapse, often leading to abuse and addiction. Sympathomimetic drugs increase norepinephrine activity while amphetamines block dopamine reuptake. Stimulants are also used therapeutically, such as for treating ADHD, through increased neurotransmitter activity in specific brain areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Stimulants Disrupt the Neural Transmitter System
Stimulants are drugs that increase neural activity by acting as agonists of the dopamine neurotransmitter system. Drugs such as cocaine, amphetamines, and MDMA enhance the pleasure and reward sensations by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. They do this by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, which allows it to accumulate in the synapse, stimulating neural activity. However, these stimulants can lead to disruptions in normal brain function, resulting in potential abuse and addiction due to the manipulated release and uptake of dopamine.
Sympathomimetic drugs are another class of substances that affect the neurotransmitter system by mimicking or increasing the production of norepinephrine. By interacting with adrenergic receptors or affecting the release and reuptake of norepinephrine, these drugs increase the sympathetic system's activity. Amphetamines, for example, are noted for blocking the reuptake of dopamine, which also contributes to their stimulant effect.
Additionally, the therapeutic use of stimulants, like those prescribed for ADHD, can seem counterintuitive due to their stimulating properties. However, they provide therapeutic effects by increasing neurotransmitter activity in brain areas associated with impulse control. On the other hand, drugs like dopamine agonists are used to treat conditions with underlying neurotransmitter imbalances, such as Parkinson's disease.