The dopamine hypothesis of the reinforcing properties of cocaine

• Published in: Trends in neurosciences (Regular ed.) Vol. 14; no. 7; p. 299
• Main Authors: Kuhar, M J, Ritz, M C, Boja, J W
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01.07.1991
• Subjects: Amphetamine - pharmacology; Animals; Carrier Proteins - metabolism; Cocaine - metabolism; Cocaine - pharmacology; Dopamine - physiology; Dopamine Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins; Euphoria - drug effects; Euphoria - physiology; Humans; Limbic System - drug effects; Limbic System - physiology; Membrane Glycoproteins; Membrane Transport Proteins; Models, Biological; Nerve Tissue Proteins; Neurotransmitter Uptake Inhibitors - pharmacology; Protein Binding; Reinforcement (Psychology); Reward; Self Administration; Substance-Related Disorders - physiopathology
• ISSN: 0166-2236
• DOI: 10.1016/0166-2236(91)90141-G

A variety of evidence suggests a 'dopamine hypothesis' for the reinforcing properties of cocaine. This hypothesis proposes that cocaine binds at the dopamine transporter and mainly inhibits neurotransmitter re-uptake; the resulting potentiation of dopaminergic neurotransmission in mesolimbocortical pathways ultimately causes reinforcement. This model suggests potential medications for treatment of cocaine abuse and dependence. Some, but not all, pharmacological data in humans support the hypothesis and additional experimentation is needed.