AP Psych Important Neurotransmitters

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter involved in pleasure, motivation, movement, and learning. Important in reward and addiction pathways

Too Much Dopamine

Linked to schizophrenia, hallucinations, and overactivity

Too Little Dopamine

Causes Parkinson’s disease, low motivation, and depression

Serotonin

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that affects mood, sleep, appetite, and digestion. Helps regulate happiness and calmness

Too Much Serotonin

Can cause serotonin syndrome (agitation, confusion, sweating)

Too Little Serotonin

Leads to depression, anxiety, and sleep problems

Norepinephrine

Neurotransmitter involved in alertness, arousal, and stress response. Increases heart rate and attention

Too Much Norepinephrine

Causes anxiety, high blood pressure, and overarousal

Too Little Norepinephrine

Causes low energy, depression, and poor focus

Acetylcholine

Involved in muscle movement, learning, and memory. Found in both the central and peripheral nervous system

Too Much Acetylcholine

Causes muscle cramps, twitching, and excessive salivation

Too Little Acetylcholine

Linked to Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss

Endorphins

Natural painkillers that reduce pain and boost pleasure; released during exercise and stress relief

Too Much Endorphins

May reduce pain sensitivity too much or cause euphoria

Too Little Endorphins

Leads to higher pain sensitivity and emotional distress

GABA

The main inhibitory neurotransmitter; calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety

Too Much GABA

Causes drowsiness and slowed reaction times

Too Little GABA

Leads to anxiety, seizures, and insomnia

Glutamate

The main excitatory neurotransmitter; helps with learning, memory, and brain development

Too Much Glutamate

Can cause overstimulation, migraines, and neuron damage

Too Little Glutamate

Leads to fatigue, poor learning, and possible schizophrenia symptoms