Neurotransmitter

Acetylcholine (ACh)

Enables muscle action, learning, and memory.

Malfunctions of Acetylcholine

Undersupply linked to Alzheimer's disease; Oversupply linked to paralysis (Black Widow venom).

Dopamine

Influences voluntary movement, learning, attention, and emotion.

Malfunctions of Dopamine

Undersupply linked to Parkinson's; Oversupply linked to schizophrenia.

Serotonin

Affects mood, hunger, sleep, and arousal.

Malfunctions of Serotonin

Undersupply linked to depression.

Norepinephrine

Helps control alertness and arousal.

Malfunctions of Norepinephrine

Undersupply linked to depression; Oversupply linked to anxiety/mania.

GABA

Inhibitory neurotransmitter; natural tranquilizer involved in calming you down.

Malfunctions of GABA

Undersupply linked to seizures, tremors, and insomnia.

Glutamate

 

Excitatory neurotransmitter; involved in memory

Malfunctions of glutamate

Under supply linked to concentration problems; oversupply = seizures & migraines

Endorphins

Influence perception of pain & pleasure

Malfunctions of endorphins

Undersupply linked to depression; oversupply can make people anxious/wired

Substance P

Pain transmission

Malfunctions of substance P

Undersupply = pain insensitivity; oversupply = PTSD, arthritis, hyperalgesia (chronic pain)