1. Problems with Imbalance Substances that Affect
Neurotransmitter
Normal Function
Problems with Imbalance
Substances that Affect
Dopamine
Produces sensations of pleasure and reward
Used by CNS neurons in voluntary movement
Schizophrenia
Parkinson’s disease
Cocaine
Amphetamines
Ritalin
Alcohol
Serotonin
Regulates sleep and dreaming, mood, pain, aggression, appetite and sexual behavior
Depression
Certain anxiety disorders
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Prozac
Hallucinogens (e.g. LSD)
Norepinephrine
Controls heart rate, sleep, sexual responsiveness, stress, vigilance and appetite
High blood pressure
Tricyclic antidepressants
Beta blockers
Acetylcholine
Primary transmitter used by neurons carrying messages from CNS
Involved in some kinds of learning and memory
Certain muscular disorders
Alzheimer’s disease
Nicotine
Botulism toxin
Curare
Atropine
GABA
Most prevalent inhibitory neurotransmitter in neurons of CNS
Anxiety
Epilepsy
Barbiturates
Tranquilizers (e.g. Valium, Librium), alcohol
Glutamine
Primary excitatory neurotransmitter in CNS
Involved in learning and memory
Brain damage after stroke
PCP (“angel dust”)
Endorphins
Pleasurable sensations and control of pain
Lowered levels resulting from opiate addiction
Opiates: opium, heroin, morphine, methadone

2. The Organization of the Nervous System
Peripheral nervous system
Central nervous system (CNS)
Autonomic nervous system
Somatic nervous system
Sympathetic nervous system
Parasympathetic nervous system