Cocaine and its Effects on the Brain

Abstract

Brain's limbic system is the target site of action of cocaine. This area of the brain is involved in pleasure and motivation. Cocaine causes the dopamine build-up in the synapses by creating a feeling of being “high”. Cocaine induces action by binding to the dopamine transporter, which transports excess dopamine back to the presynaptic neuron. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) of the limbic system is the primary target of cocaine action. Cocaine also alters gene expression in the limbic system by altering dopamine transporters or dopamine receptors. Cocaine causes auditory hallucinations, restlessness, paranoia, and psychosis. This chapter reviews the impact of cocaine on the brain.