Neurotransmitters


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Neurotransmitters


Neurotransmitters are chemicals produced by the nerve cells in the brain that send messages back and forth across the space between the cells (synapse). When the normal balance of these neurotransmitters is upset, headache, depression, or other mental health problems may develop.

The neurotransmitters that are believed to play a role in mental functioning are serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Lila Havens
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Michele Cronen
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Gisele Ferguson, MD, FRCPC - Psychiatry, Child and Youth Psychiatry
Last Updated April 25, 2007

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Last updated: April 25, 2007
Author: Lila Havens
Reviewed By: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Gisele Ferguson, MD, FRCPC - Psychiatry, Child and Youth Psychiatry
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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