Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that transmits impulses between nerve cells, called neurons. It has numerous effects in the body and many additional effects have been hypothesized. If the body's dopamine level is too high or too low ill effects can result. Below are listed some of the known and theorized benefits of dopamine.
Depression
A deficiency of a type of dopamine is likely responsible for the loss of pleasure and motivation found in major depression, according to a study conducted at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Dopamine has been theorized to be a factor in depression and drugs that increase its level in the blood are sometimes added to traditional therapies. Dopamine can be beneficial by alleviating major depression and the depressed phase of bipolar disorder.
Parkinson's Disease
Patients with Parkinson's disease lose the majority of their dopamine-producing nerve cells. This causes the motor neurons to be unable to properly control bodily movements and overall coordination. One of the mainstay treatments for Parkinson's causes the level of dopamine in the blood to increase, thereby relieving the symptoms.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
According to the University of Washington, a low level of dopamine is suggested to play a factor in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. An area of the brain responsible for dopamine production is also responsible for cognitive tasks such as attention and focus. Dopamine may be beneficial in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Substance Abuse and Addiction
Dopamine is known to play a substantial role in addiction. Many drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamine, cause blood dopamine levels to rise, leading to a sense of euphoria. Sweet foods can also cause an increase in dopamine, which can lead to addiction to the foods.
It is hypothesized that low levels of dopamine contribute to the susceptibility of some people to addiction and that finding healthy ways to increase their dopamine level may ease their substance abuse and addiction.
Correction of Hemodynamic Imbalance
Intravenous dopamine is given for the treatment of serious heart failure. It may also be given after a heart attack, open heart surgery or trauma. Intravenous dopamine is sometimes prescribed to treat life-threatening septicemia (an infection of the blood) or kidney failure. It increases blood pressure which helps to stabilize the body. The patient receiving dopamine must be closely monitored and is usually placed in an Intensive Care Unit so that the dose can be properly titrated.
The benefit of dopamine in the correction of hemodynamic imbalance as well understood. It has a rapid onset of action and a reliable end result.
