Which mechanism is responsible for the pleasurable and rewarding effects of some drugs, such as cocaine and opioids? A) The excitation of midbrain dopamine neurons by the pontine cholinergic cells B) ACh release from postganglionic fibers of the parasympathetic nervous system C) Phasic release of ACh in the prefrontal cortex D) Stimulation of K⁺ channel opening by muscarinic receptors

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The excitation of midbrain dopamine neurons by the pontine cholinergic cells is responsible for the pleasurable and rewarding effects of drugs such as cocaine and opioids. This mechanism leads to an increase in dopamine release in the mesolimbic pathway, which is associated with reward and reinforcement.

Which Mechanism Is Responsible for the Pleasurable and Rewarding Effects