Basal Ganglia		Blocks the removal of dopamine from the synapse, so the brain receives constant messages of euphoria.
Nucleus Accumbens		Contains the brain’s reward circuit. It links together a number of brain structures that control and regulate our ability to feel pleasure.
Thalamus		A chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences.
Ventral segmental area		Located on the neuron that releases the neurotransmitters
Hippocampus		Controls basic functions critical to life, such as heart rate, breathing, and sleeping.
Frontal Cortex		Acts as a hub to relay sensory information and is also important in regulating arousal.
Amygdala		Responsible for thoughts and actions. The orbitofrontal cortex is thought to play a part in controlling behaviour.
Alcohol, Opioids, and Cannabis		This region, which receives dopamine from the ventral segmental area, helps to control desire, satiety, and inhibition.
Amphetamines		Associated with memory and with emotions, notably anxiety and fear.
Nicotine		Important for consolidation of memory.
Cocaine		Directly stimulate transmission of dopamine.
Addiction		Divided into areas that control specific functions. Different areas process information from our senses, enabling us to see, feel, hear, and taste.
Brain Stem		Messages are typically carried between neurons by chemical called
Cerebral Cortex		Suppress the action of GABA neurons and others that inhibit dopamine release.
Limbic System		A primitive structure at the top of the brain stem in which dopamine is synthesized.
Neurotransmitters		Neurotransmitter attaches to a specialized site on the receiving neuron called a
Receptors		Seems to stimulate dopamine neurons
Transporters		Interconnected regions that are involved in learning, reward, and habit formation.