ABFT Analyst Certification Practice Exam

Amphetamines primarily function by stimulating the release of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This mechanism of action is crucial for their effects, which include increased alertness, attention, and energy levels. Amphetamines achieve this by promoting the release of these neurotransmitters from their respective vesicles into the synaptic cleft, thereby enhancing their availability for receptor binding. This heightened presence of norepinephrine and dopamine leads to the stimulation of the central nervous system.

In contrast to this mechanism, inhibiting serotonin receptors, blocking dopamine receptors, or increasing GABA levels do not accurately capture how amphetamines exert their influence on the brain. Specifically, serotonin is not the primary neurotransmitter affected by amphetamines, and blocking dopamine receptors would counteract the stimulant effects typically associated with amphetamines. Meanwhile, increasing GABA levels would usually produce sedative effects less aligned with the purpose of amphetamines, which are intended to be stimulating. Understanding this mechanism clarifies why option C is the correct response.