Dopamine
Dopamine is a hormone found in the human body. It is secreted from the chromaffin tissue that composes the adrenal gland’s medulla. Noradrenaline is composed of a benzene ring containing two hydroxyl groups and an amine side chain. Its chemical formula is C8H11NO2. It is a catecholamine, and it is classified as an amine hormone.
Secretion and Production
Dopamine is produced in and secreted from the chromaffin tissue of the adrenal gland’s medulla. It is synthesized by a series of reactions in which tyrosine is transformed into dihydroxtphenylalanine (DOPA). Then, by decarboxylation, DOPA is transformed into the hormone dopamine.
After production, dopamine is secreted into the bloodstream. Its production and secretion are the effects of stress caused by environmental factors — this is commonly referred to as the “fight or flight response.” Some of the effects of dopamine include the inhibition of the production of the hormones prolactin, LH, FSH. and TSH, the improvement of the heart’s contractility, and an increase in renal blood flow. An increased renal blood flow results in an increased urinary output that, in turn, increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to other vital organs. Additionally, dopamine plays a role in both emotional health and cognitive abilities.
Pharmacological Uses
As a drug, dopamine is commonly used for three purposes:
Parkinson’s Disease
The first common use of dopamine is as a dopamine replacement in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Because Parkinson’s disease is caused by a lack of dopamine, dopamine treatment can work to reduce the symptoms of patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)
The second common use of dopamine used in ADHD drugs in combination with norepinephrine. Because both dopamine and norepinephrine play a large role in both attention and focus, the two hormones are combined as ADHD treatment drugs in many major brands.
Vasopressor
The final common use of dopamine is as a vasopressor. Dopamine constricts the arteries, therefore increasing blood pressure in patients whose blood pressure is dangerously low.