A client is being treated for cocaine and amphetamine abuse.The nurse realizes that the client's symptoms are caused by which actions of these substances on the central nervous system?
Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cocaine and amphetamines stimulate the release of norepinephrine on the presynaptic neuron and inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine from the synaptic cleft back to the presynaptic neuron. This results in an increased availability of norepinephrine in the synaptic cleft, leading to increased sympathetic activity and the characteristic symptoms of cocaine and amphetamine abuse. Inhibition of the destruction of norepinephrine by the enzyme monoamine oxidase is a mechanism of action of some antidepressants, while inhibition of alpha and stimulation of beta receptors are mechanisms of action of adrenergic drugs like epinephrine and norepinephrine.

A Client Is Being Treated for Cocaine and Amphetamine Abuse