Brain stimulation reward is altered by affecting dopamine-glutamate interactions in the central extended amygdala

► We examined dopamine and glutamate interactions in brain stimulation reward. ► Drug effects in extended amygdala and nucleus accumbens were compared. ► D2 stimulation and AMPA blockade in the extended amygdala reduced reward. ► Drug injections into the nucleus accumbens were much less effective. ► Extended amygdala appears to have a role in brain stimulation reward.