GABA

    γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. Its main precursor is L-glutamate, which is converted to GABA by the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (GAD). GABA is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in controlling anxiety and stress. Imbalances in GABA levels have been associated with anxiety, with low GABA levels often present in individuals with anxiety disorders. Disruption of GABA neurotransmission can lead to many neurological conditions, including epilepsy, general anxiety disorder, inability to concentrate, ADHD, and panic attacks. Treatments for anxiety related to GABA imbalances often involve nutrients that increase GABA levels or enhance its effects. L-theanine and rosmarinic acid (found in rosemary, lemon balm, sage, thyme, and peppermint) may also help maintain GABA levels by inhibiting its breakdown.

    

When GABA is low, you may feel or experience:

-anxious and overwhelmed

-anxious and fearful

-disorganized or inattentive

-incessant worrying

-racing thoughts that keep you awake at night

-heart palpitations

-cravings for carbohydrates, drugs, or alcohol

-muscle tension

-panic attacks

-inability to relax

-exhaustion

 Drugs that interact with GABA

Agonist Modulator of GABA Receptor (benzodiazepines): Xanax, Lexotanil, Lexotan, Librium, Klonopin, Valium, ProSon, Rohypnol, Dalmane, Ativan, Loramet, Sedoxil, Dormicum, Megadon, Serax, Restoril, Halcion

Agonist Modulator of GABA Receptors (nonbenzodiazpines): Ambien, Sonata, Lunesta, Imovane

GABA Antagonist Competitives Binder: Flumazenil

GABA 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 feel anxious or panic for no reason? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have feelings of dread or impending doom? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have feelings of guilt about everyday decisions? 0 1 2 3

How often does your mind feel restless? 0 1 2 3

How difficult is it to turn your mind off when you want to relax? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have disorganized attention? 0 1 2 3

How often do you worry about things you were not

worried about before? 0 1 2 3

How often do you have feelings of inner tension and inner excitability? 0 1 2 3