AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -GABAergic neurons are themselves an off-switch for the brain’s euphoria and pleasure networks. Once opioids shut off GABAergic neurons, the pleasure circuits fill with another neurotransmitter called dopamine.

Detailed explanation-2: -Opioids trigger the release of endorphins, your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters. Endorphins muffle your perception of pain and boost feelings of pleasure, creating a temporary but powerful sense of well-being.

Detailed explanation-3: -When binding to the pain pathway opioids provide pain relief, however, when binding to the reward pathway, opioids cause euphoria and release a key neurotransmitter known as dopamine. Dopamine signals the neurons (brain or nerve cells) of the body to create a pleasurable feeling or “high”.

Detailed explanation-4: -Like their endogenous counterparts, opiates act at chemical receptors to produce analgesia and undesirable side effects. As these drugs are given over a prolonged period, they inhibit the endogenous endorphin system, blunting the response to pain and stress and decreasing the overall endorphin effect.