Which neurotransmitters are affected by cocaine?

Cocaine primarily affects the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. When cocaine is used, it inhibits the reuptake of these neurotransmitters in the brain. This means that, following their release, these neurotransmitters remain in the synaptic cleft longer than they typically would, leading to prolonged activation of the receptors they bind to.

Dopamine plays a key role in the brain's reward and pleasure centers, so the increase in dopamine levels due to cocaine use is linked to the intense feelings of euphoria that users often experience. Norepinephrine, which is involved in the fight-or-flight response, contributes to heightened alertness and energy levels. Serotonin, often associated with mood regulation, can influence feelings of well-being and happiness, thus also playing a role in cocaine's effects.

The other neurotransmitters mentioned in the incorrect choices do not have a direct role in cocaine's mechanism of action as prominently as those in the correct answer. Thus, it's the impact on dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin that verifies the correctness of the selected answer.