Neurotransmitters and Receptors

Acetylcholine is released at the synaptic ends of nerve fibers in the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and results in transmission of nerve impulses that contract or dilate muscles. It also increases stomach peristalsis, urinary tract contractions; and voluntary voiding pressure on the bladder.

Amphetamine is a volatile liquid, C₉H₁₃N, is a central nervous system stimulant that releases noradrenaline neurotransmitter and activates celluar activites.

Cocaine an alkaloid, C₁₇H₂₁NO₄ is an analgesic that induces euphoria.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that inhibits the transmission of nerve impulses--in the substantia nigra, basal ganglia, and corpus striatum of the brain. It is controlled by the enzyme Monamine Oxidase (MAO-B) which inhibits its production. Nicotine inhibits MAO and hence raises level of dopamine with euphoric results. Low levels of dopamine are associated with Parkinson's disease.

Endorphins are a group of peptide hormones that bind to opiate receptors and are found mainly in the brain. Endorphins reduce the sensation of pain and affect emotions.

Epinephrine (adrenaline) C₉H₁₃NO₃ is a hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla, is released into the bloodstream in response to physical or mental stress, and is a vasoconstrictor that increases heart rate and blood pressure

Ephedrine is an alkaloid C₁₀H₁₅CO that stimulates the nervous system and is used for allergies and asthma.

Melatonin is a hormone derived from serotonin that is produced by the epineal gland at the base of the brain. Ingested as a chemical, it induces drowsiness (sleep), lowers blood pressure by artery constriction, and is contra indicated for asthma.

Norepinephrine is a hormone and neurotransmitter, secreted by the adrenal medulla and the nerve endings of the sympathetic nervous system to cause vasoconstriction and increases heart rate.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter arising from emotional stimuli of the limbic system. It is an organic compound, C₁₀ H ₁₂ N ₂ O, formed from tryptophan and found in animal and human tissue, especially the brain, blood serum, and gastric mucous membranes, and active in vasoconstriction, stimulation of the smooth muscles, transmission of impulses between nerve cells, and regulation of cyclic body processes. Low levels are associated with depression that seems to be relieved by Prozac type chemicals that act as serotonin uptake blockers.