Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is normally found in the brain. It plays a large role in the body’s mechanisms for reward, motor control and motivation. Dopamine can also be given as a supplement to treat many different things. Dopamine has many effects throughout the body, including in the immune system, in the digestive system, and in the renal system. Because dopamine cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, dopamine given supplementally will not have any affect on the brain chemistry. A good example of dopamine as a treatment is in a person who does not produce enough dopamine in their kidneys. These people will generally have high blood pressure and reduced sodium excretion in the urine. If these people are supplemented with the correct dosage of dopamine, their blood pressure problems can be alleviated. Who knew dopamine had so many affects outside of the brain?
Who knew dopamine had so many effects throughout the body?
