Neurotransmitters

Acetylcholine:

• it is a chemical transmitter in the central/parasympathetic nervous system
• it is the first neurotransmitter discovered
• it is a deliverer of sodium ions
• people who have Alzheimer's Disease have a shortage of acetylcholine
• it is an ester of acetic acid and choline
• too much acetylcholine can decrease heart rate, while a shortage causes motor dysfunction
• can be used in cataract surgery to constrict the pupil

Seratonin:

• a neurotransmitter involved in the transmission of nerve signals
• it is made by the amino acid tryptophan
• it maintains our happiness, and keeps emotions under control
• seratonin is used in depression medications
• in the nerve cell, it is released from the end of the presynaptic cell, and then binds to the postsynaptic cell

Endorphins:

• it works with sedative receptors to relieve pain
• it produces a natural "high" feeling, but it's not addicting
• leads to pleasure; good feelings
• high levels of endorphins lead to less pain and stress
• meditation can increase endorphin amounts

Norepinephrine:

• is a hormone and a neurotransmitter
• as it hormone it gives the body quick energy when stressed
• as a neurotransmitter is transmits nerve impluses from one neuron to the next
• its main function is a stress hormone; the brain releases it in times of stress