What is dopamine?

This is a neurotransmitter that acts on dopamine receptors throughout the body. It stimulates the release of a hormone called noradrenaline from nerve endings. This is seen especially in the limbic system of the brain, where it may be important for the control of mood and experience of pleasure. Abnormalities in dopamine systems in the brain may also be involved in schizophrenia. Drugs that compete with dopamine to block their receptor sites include antipsychotic drugs, used to treat schizophrenia, and certain drugs to treat nausea and vomiting. Some antipsychotics and other drugs can also increase dopamine action in the brain and are used to help treat depression.