The illicit drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethylamphetamine (MDMA, also known as Ectasy) decreases the expression of the serotonin transporter in the brain. Explain how this would alter the MMDA user’s mood.
Ectasy affects the brain by increasing the activity of atleast three neurotransmitters : serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. It enhances the release of these neurotransmitters and/or blocks their reuptake.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in the regulation of mood, sleep, pain, appetite and other behaviours. The excess release of serotonin by Ectasy causes mood-elevating effects that people enjoy. However, by releasing large amount of serotonin, Ectasy causes the brain to become significantly depleted of this important neurotransmitter, causing the negative psychological aftereffects like depression, paranoia etc.
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