Neurobiology of opiate abuse

Article Abstract:

The effect of opiates on the central nervous system is dependent on the type and distribution of receptors present. Morphine has an affinity for mu receptors which determines the extent of its pharmacological actions. It promotes a rewarding effect on animals whose tendency is to seek and prolong its effects. This dependence to the drug promotes biological changes which lead to physical dependence and full-blown withdrawal manifestations. Maintenance of opiate addiction was attributed to motivational changes different from physical dependence and withdrawal.

Opium

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Drugs of abuse: anatomy, pharmacology and function of reward pathways

Article Abstract:

The concept of positive reinforcement in drug abuse are elaborated in the dopamine, opioid peptides and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurosystems. Experiments done on rats established the role of dopamine on strengthening effects of cocaine. Opioid peptides adjust nociceptive threshold and gamma-aminobutyrate receptors bind substances with anxiolytic effects. This processes prove rewarding to the test subjects and is reflective of the instinctive hedonic response to drug use.

Psychological aspects, Opioids, Conditioned response, Conditioned responses, GABA

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Cortical and limbic dopamine (on opiate addiction): do not mix before use!

Article Abstract:

A study was conducted to determine the effects of opiate addiction on mesocortical and mesolimbic dopamine projections. Results show that rat mesolimbic dopamine system and nucleus accumbens are highly sensitive even to very low doses of morphine while mesocortical neurones are unresponsive. Results also indicate that cortical dopamine transmissions can be used to study drug-related stimuli independently from motor output.

Research, Morphine

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