Neuron Communication
- The neuron sends an electrical signal down its axon.
- At the end of the axon, a chemical messenger is released in the synapse.
- The chemical messenger then binds to a specific receptor on the receiving neuron.
- These chemical messengers are known as neurotransmitters.
Gaba (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)
- Binds to Gaba receptors.
- Receptors are the same receptors Benzodiazepines and alcohol binds to.
- Is a naturally occurring sedative neurotransmitter.
- Low levels of Gaba is believed to be part of the cause for anxiety disorders.
- Binds to Glutamate receptors.
- Naturally occurring stimulatory neurotransmitter..
- It is also an amino acid.
Endorphins and Enkephalins
- These are our natural opiates or pain killers.
- Binds to opiate receptors the same way heroin, morphine and oxycodone binds to.
- The chronic use of opiates results in the suppression of endorphins leading to the symptoms of opiate withdrawal including poor pain tolerance and a lack of the sense of well being.
- Low levels of either of these neurotransmitters results in the symptoms of depression.
- Depression is the result of a defect in the genetic code responsible for the production of these neurotransmitters.
- Chronic drug and alcohol use lowers the levels of these neurotransmitters resulting in the depression like symptoms of early recovery known as PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Symptoms).
- Ecstasy can cause cell death and destroy serotonin levels after just one use.
- Genetic vulnerability to mental health diagnosis and addiction problems.
- Is a neurotransmitter as well as a hormone.
- Plays many different roles in different areas of the brain.
- When there are low levels can result in Parkinson's Disease.
- When there is high levels can result in hallucinations and Schizophrenia.
- Called the "feel good" chemical in the reward pathway that is released when drugs are taken.
- Recently discovered neurotransmitter.
- Binds to the same receptors as THC.
- Plays a role in hunger.
- Being researched to see if they can benefit weight loss and quit cigarette smoking.
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