What happens in the brain of a person who is addicted to a drug such as cocaine, heroin, or nicotine?
A)The number of dopamine receptors in the brain's reward system decreases.
B)The number of endorphin receptors in the brain's reward system decreases.
C)The number of dopamine receptors in the brain's reward system increases.
D)The number of neurons that produce hypocretin in the hypothalamus is greatly reduced.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Drugs of abuse like cocaine, heroin, and nicotine cause an increase in the release of dopamine in the brain's reward system. Over time, this can lead to a decrease in the number of dopamine receptors in this system, meaning the individual needs more of the drug to feel the same reward as before. This is a hallmark of addiction.

What Happens in the Brain of a Person Who Is