Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter in the reward system, often dubbed the "feel-good" chemical. It is crucial for motivation, pleasure, and reinforcement learning. When a person engages in pleasurable activities, dopamine is released, reinforcing the behavior. In the context of substance use, drugs can cause a surge in dopamine, leading to the euphoric feelings associated with drug use. Over time, the brain's dopamine system can become dysregulated, contributing to compulsive drug-seeking behavior.
