Effects of Combined Systemic Alcohol and Central Nicotine Administration into Ventral Tegmental Area on Dopamine Release in the Nucleus Accumbens

Abstract

These data support the hypothesis that the reinforcing effects of ethanol are at least partially mediated through the nicotinic receptors in the VTA. Furthermore, administration of selective nicotinic antagonists may be of therapeutic potential in reducing the rewarding effects of ethanol. The data also suggest that the combined effects of ethanol and nicotine on the "reward pathway" may be a contributing factor to the high incidence of smoking in alcoholics.