Difference between Serotonin and Dopamine
These two compounds are essential for proper performance of the brain. Serotonin and Dopamine both belong to a class of biogenic amines that constitute acetylcholine, histamine and noradrenalin. They are made up of tryptophan, choline and tyrosine. These two compounds are of scientific benefits as they are associated to different psychoactive and addictive drugs.
Are of Location
Serotonin is found in the human brain and in the digestive parts of certain animals. It is a natural hormone in the human brain. There are also various fruits and vegetables that are known to contain this compound. It serves as a neurotransmitter hormone in human beings.
Dopamine is found in the human brain and other various animals. It serves as a neurotransmitter compound in the brain.
Role
Among the roles that Serotonin plays in the human body include; transmission of impulse around the body and narrowing of the blood vessels, it also affect the mood and temper of human beings. The hormone is known to bring about depression, human appetite, libido and aggression. All these are associated with this hormone.
Dopamine aids in proper functioning of the central nervous system. It also brings about motivation and the reward system in the human brain.
Medical Use
Serotonin is an important component of drugs such as the antidepressant variety. This is due to its essential function in affecting depression. It is used to from monoamine oxidase inhibitors that are used to aid neurotransmitters making them to ease the various signs of depression. However the usage of medicines with this compound has known profound side effects, including their reactions with other medicines.
Dopamine is used to treat blood pressure and various kidney malfunctions. This hormone is not injected to the human in its raw form. It is injected directly to the bloodstream for various medical reasons. And sometimes doctors administer precursors that enable the brain to produce this important hormone by its own.