Dopamine

     Dopamine (3,4-dihydroxyphenethylamine) is an important excitatory neurotransmitter that functions as both a hormone and a neurotransmitter and plays several important roles in the brain and body. It is synthesized in the brain and kidneys. Dopamine is a powerful neurotransmitter, sometimes called the “feel good” neurotransmitter. It is not only involved in pleasure, but also in reward (motivation). Dopamine synthesis consists of three steps. First, phenylalanine is converted to another amino acid, tyrosine. Next, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) catalyzes the conversion of tyrosine to L-Dopa. Finally, L-Dopa is converted to dopamine.

When dopamine is low, you may feel or experience:

-depression

-lack of energy, drive

-low libido

-lack of motivation or satisfaction

-mood swings

-obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

-inability to lose weight

-cravings for caffeine or other stimulants

-lack of focus and concentration

-memory loss or inattention

-addictions of some kind

When dopamine is high, you may feel or experience:

-Symptoms of mania

-excessive suspiciousness

-excessive excitement about challenges and achievements

-constipation

-aggression

-schizophrenia

-hyperactivity

-Tourette syndrome

Drugs that interact with Dopamine

Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors: Wellbutrin (Bupropion)

Dopamine Receptor Agonists: Mirapex, Sifrol, Requip

D2 Dopamine Receptor Blockers (antipsychotics): Thorazine, Prolixin, Trilafon, Compazine, Mellaril, Stelazine, Vesprin, Nozinan, Depixol, Navane, Iuanxol, Clopixol, Acuphase, Haldol, Orap, Clozaril, Zyprexa, Zydis, Seroquel, Geodon, Solian, Invega, Abilify

 

Dopamine deficiency questionnaire

Please circle the appropriate number “0 – 3” on all questions below.

0 as the least/never to 3 as the most /always.

How often do you have feelings of hopelessness? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have self-destructive thoughts? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have an inability to handle stress? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have anger and aggression while under stress? 0 1 2 3

How often do you feel you are not rested even after long hours of sleep? 0 1 2 3

How often do you prefer to isolate yourself from others? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have unexplained lack of concern for family and friends? 0 1 2 3

How easily are you distracted from your tasks? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have an inability to finish tasks? 0 1 2 3

How often do you feel the need to consume caffeine to stay alert? 0 1 2 3

How often do you feel your libido has been decreased? 0 1 2 3

How often do you lose your temper for minor reasons? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have feelings of worthlessness? 0 1 2 3