AP PSYCH NEUROTRANSMITTERS

Acetylcholine

Enables muscle action, learning, and memory.

Too much Acetylcholine

Can cause muscle spasms and convulsions; may overstimulate brain circuits.

Too little Acetylcholine

Associated with memory loss and muscle weakness (e.g., Alzheimer's). This can lead to reduced stimulation of other systems, affecting mood and alertness.

Dopamine

Reward neurotransmitter

Too much Dopamine

Linked to schizophrenia and psychosis. Can overwhelm the prefrontal cortex..

Too little Dopamine

Linked to Parkinson's disease (tremors, stiffness). This can cause a chain reaction.

Serotonin

Happiness neurotransmitter

Too much Serotonin

Can lead to Serotonin syndrome (agitation, confusion). Excess Serotonin can inhibit Dopamine production, affecting motivation and pleasure.

Too little Serotonin

Linked to depression, anxiety, and sleep problems.

Norepinephrine

Fight or flight

Too much Norepinephrine

Can cause anxiety, high blood pressure, and hyperactivity.

Too little Norepinephrine

Leads to low energy, lack of focus, and depressed mood

GABA

A major inhibitory neurotransmitter; calms neural activity.

Too much GABA

Can cause excessive sedation, drowsiness, and slowed reflexes.

Too little GABA

Linked to seizures, anxiety, tremors, and insomnia.

Glutamate

A major excitatory neurotransmitter; involved in memory and learning.

Too much Glutamate

Can overstimulate neurons, leading to migraines or seizures (excitotoxicity).

Too little Glutamate

Can cause difficulties with learning, memory formation, and cognitive sluggishness.

Caffeine

Agonist for ACH

Barbiturates

A lot of serotonin dopamine and norepinephrine (depressants)

Stimulants (marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy)

Increase of excitatory effects of norepinephrine

Benzodiazepines and alcohol

Agonists of GABA

Opioids (morphine and heroin)

Agonists of endorphins

LSD

Antagonist of serotonin (hallucinogens)