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Oral Surgery · single question

Cocaine produces its euphoric/reinforcing effects primarily by acting at which site?

  1. The cerebellum, enhancing motor coordination
  2. The mesolimbic dopamine reward pathway (ventral tegmental area to nucleus accumbens), by blocking the dopamine transporter and preventing dopamine reuptake
  3. The hippocampus, impairing memory formation only
  4. The brainstem respiratory centers, primarily affecting breathing
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. The mesolimbic dopamine reward pathway (ventral tegmental area to nucleus accumbens), by blocking the dopamine transporter and preventing dopamine reuptake

Cocaine blocks the dopamine transporter at the synapse, preventing reuptake of dopamine released in the mesolimbic pathway (VTA → nucleus accumbens). The resulting buildup of synaptic dopamine produces the characteristic euphoria and is central to cocaine's addictive potential.

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