Role of the Serotonin 2B Receptor in the Reinforcing Effects of Psychostimulants

In this chapter, we will review the current literature underlying the essential role played by the 5-HT2B receptor in the regulation of serotonin and dopamine neurotransmission, by first focusing on its involvement in the psychostimulant effects of the club-drug Ecstasy, then by further describing its contribution to the psychostimulant effects of amphetamine, and finally, by presenting its role in the psychostimulant effects of cocaine. Throughout this review, we will compare the current findings in mice and rats with an emphasis on interspecies discrepancies. to conclude, we will discuss the potential pharmacotherapeutic strategies for the treatment of psychostimulant addiction.