Serotonin
Definition
Serotonin is another neurotransmitter that has many functions throughout the body. In the brain, it helps regulate mood, appetite, sleep cycle, memory and learning.
Analogy
Consider serotonin as your brain's traffic controller. It helps keep things running smoothly by regulating mood swings just like how traffic lights control vehicle flow to prevent accidents on roads.
Related terms
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): A class of drugs typically used as antidepressants in the treatment of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders.
Mood Disorders: Psychological disorders characterized by emotional extremes such as depression or bipolar disorder.
Melatonin: A hormone produced by pineal gland affecting sleep-wake cycles.
"Serotonin" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (7)
- Prozac is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) which blocks the reuptake of serotonin, a key neurotransmitter in mood regulation and happiness, and therefore make it more abundant for the brain to use. What do SSRI's have the potential to damage?
- What role does serotonin play in our bodies?
- Which drug inhibits the reuptake of serotonin leading to elevated mood states?
- Which drug most directly affects the reuptake process of serotonin in synaptic transmission?
- Which pharmacological agent would be most likely to disrupt neural firing by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in synaptic transmission?
- What role does serotonin play in human behavior and emotional regulation?
- What type of medication increases the availability of norepinephrine or serotonin in synapses?
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