disorder
People Neurotransmitters
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity affected by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience difficulties in
the areas of attention, overactivity, impulse control, and distractibility. Research shows that
dopamine and norepinephrine imbalances are strongly implicated in causing ADHD.
Others
Substantial research evidence also suggests a correlation of neurotransmitter imbalance with
disorders such as borderline personality disorders , schizotypal personality disorder ,
avoidant personality disorder , social phobia , histrionic personality disorder , and
somatization disorder .
Drug addictions
Cocaine and crack cocaine are psychostimulants that affect neurons containing dopamine in the
areas of the brain known as the limbic and frontal cortex. When cocaine is used, it generates a
feeling of confidence and power. However, when large amounts are taken, people "crash" and
suffer from physical and emotional exhaustion as well as depression.
Opiates, such as heroin and appear morphine, to mimic naturally occurring peptide substances in
the brain that act as neurotransmitters with opiate activity called endorphins. Natural endorphins
of the brain act to kill pain, cause sensations of pleasure, and cause sleepiness. Endorphins
released with extensive aerobic exercise, for example, are responsible for the "rush" that longdistance runners experience. It is believed that morphine and heroin combine with the endorphin
receptors in the brain, resulting in reduced natural endorphin production. As a result, the drugs
are needed to replace the naturally produced endorphins and addiction occurs. Attempts to
counteract the effects of the drugs involve using medications that mimic them, such as
nalorphine, naloxone, and naltrexone .
Alcohol is one of the depressant drugs in widest use, and is believed to cause its effects by
interacting with the GABA receptor. Initially anxiety is controlled, but greater amounts reduce
muscle control and delay reaction time due to impaired thinking.