The potential addictive nature of cocaine makes an individual vulnerable from the very first use of the drug. The immediate impact of using cocaine is an intense feeling of pleasure, known as euphoria. This occurs because cocaine goes rapidly to the brain where it blocks the uptake of a neurotransmitter called dopamine. The result is that levels of the so-called pleasure chemical remain high, leading to the sense of euphoria.
When someone uses cocaine and experiences that high, it acts like a reward that pushes the person to engage in the behavior again. The use of dopamine to explain why cocaine is addictive is important but also simplified. There are many other factors that contribute to the habit-forming nature of this drug. For instance, dopamine is affected throughout the brain but especially in an area called the limbic system.
The limbic system is involved in regulating emotions and connecting them to memories, a potent combination for repeating pleasurable behaviors like cocaine use. It is also involved in basic survival instincts and urges. Stimulating this part of the brain can lead to the impulsive desire to keep using the drug to get the pleasure sensation.
