5 Major Neurotransmitters Epinephrine, the major stress neurotransmitter, related to blood pressure, heart rate. Norepinephrine, a second stress neurotransmitter. High levels of this hormone are seen in states of anxiety and insomnia. It is released in response to perceived threat. Dopamine, modulates the effect of the excitatory hormones, and is necessary for states of relaxation and mental alertness. Serotonin, a master neurotransmitter, is manufactured from tryptophan. It is found all over the body and is necessary to modulate the levels of the stress hormones. GABA is the foremost inhibitory neurotransmitter in the body. GABA is involved with insomnia, anxiety, and depression.

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Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters are molecules that regulate brain function. They are chemicals which relay messages from nerve to nerve both within the brain and outside the brain. They also relay messages from nerve to muscle, lungs, and intestinal tracts. They can accentuate emotion, thought processes, joy, elation and also fear, anxiety, insomnia and that terrible urge to over indulge in food, alcohol, drugs, etc. In short, neurotransmitters are used all over the body to transmit information and signals. They are manufactured and used by neurons (nerve cells) and are release into the synaptic clefts between the neurons. By now, over 50 neurotransmitters have been identified, and it is estimated that around 100 neurotransmitters exist in the biological systems. MIMICS OF DEPRESSION: Hypothyroidism can cause a picture similar to depression, and is easily correctable. Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies can also cause a depression like mimic.