Neurotransmitters

Excitatory neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that increase the likelihood of a neuron firing an action potential.

Inhibitory neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that decrease the likelihood of a neuron firing an action potential.

Major excitatory neurotransmitters

Epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Major inhibitory neurotransmitters

Serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

Dual-function neurotransmitters

Acetylcholine and dopamine.

Modulatory neurotransmitters

Also known as neuromodulators, affecting a larger number of neurons simultaneously.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

Acts as the body's main inhibitory chemical messenger.

Glutamate

Plays a role in cognitive functions and can cause excitotoxicity in excessive amounts.

Oxytocin

Hormone and neurotransmitter involved in social recognition, bonding, and sexual reproduction.

Endorphins

Neurotransmitters inhibiting pain signals and promoting euphoria, naturally produced in response to pain.

Ex. Exercising

Epinephrine

Also known as adrenaline, serving as a hormone and neurotransmitter in the body.

Norepinephrine

Plays a role in alertness and the fight or flight response, with levels highest during stress.

Dopamine

Coordinates body movements, involved in reward, motivation, and addiction.

Serotonin

Regulates mood, sleep, anxiety, sexuality, and appetite, targeted by SSRIs for various mental health conditions.

Adenosine

Acts as a neuromodulator, suppressing arousal and improving sleep.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

Functions as a neurotransmitter in the nervous systems, implicated in pain and neurodegenerative disorders.

Nitric oxide

Affects smooth muscles, relaxing them to increase blood flow.

Acetylcholine

Found in both central and peripheral nervous systems, primarily associated with motor neurons, influencing muscle movements, memory, and learning.

Neurotransmitter dysfunction

Imbalance in neurotransmitter levels can lead to various adverse effects on the body and mental health conditions.

Agonists

Increase the effects of specific neurotransmitters.

Antagonists

Block the effects of neurotransmission.

Neuro-acting drugs

Categorized based on direct or indirect effects on neurotransmission.