The following protocols provide targeted approaches to addressing imbalances in key neurotransmitter systems, each tailored to specific neurochemical profiles. These examples focus on three primary categories: dopaminergic, serotonergic, and noradrenergic imbalances, with an emphasis on supporting optimal neurotransmitter function through carefully selected supplements. Each protocol includes a core supplement targeting the primary neurotransmitter issue—such as Dopa Mucuna for dopamine, 5-HTP for serotonin, or GABA for noradrenaline regulation—while also incorporating foundational supplements common to all protocols for comprehensive support. It is important to note that dosage adjustments should be made cautiously to avoid potential side effects, such as mania or anxiety, associated with rapid increases in neurotransmitter levels. See the references section for more information.

Dopaminergic

Low Dopamine w/ Low GABA

Dopa Mucuna

• precursor for increasing dopamine levels
• Precaution: Increasing the dose too quickly can lead to mania [1].

In addition to Dopa Mucuna, the supplements for all types would be included for the baseline protocol.

Serotoninergic

Low Serotonin w/ Low GABA

5-HTP

• precursor that increases serotonin levels
• Precaution: 5-HTP supplementation can lead to excessive serotonin which can result in serious side effects [2]. See references for more info.

In addition to 5-HTP, the supplements for all types would be included for the baseline protocol.

Noradrenergic

High Noradrenaline w/ Low GABA

GABA

• supplemental form of the neurotransmitter
• may support noradrenaline regulation through inhibitory mechanisms [3].

In addition to GABA, the supplements for all types would be included for the baseline protocol.

Check out the last post in this series for tips on effective dosing, scheduling, and more.

References

1. Sohutskay, David O, et al. “Dopamine Dysregulation Syndrome Presenting as Overuse of Mucuna Pruriens Levodopa Supplement.” Journal of Movement Disorders, vol. 17, no. 3, 20 May 2024, pp. 357–359, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11300383/, https://doi.org/10.14802/jmd.24067. 
2. ‌“5-HTP: MedlinePlus Supplements.” Medlineplus.gov, 2022, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/794.html
3. Herman, James P, et al. “Norepinephrine–Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Interaction in Limbic Stress Circuits: Effects of Reboxetine on GABAergic Neurons.” Biological Psychiatry, vol. 53, no. 2, 1 Jan. 2003, pp. 166–174, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12547473/, https://doi.org/10.1016/s0006-3223(02)01449-x.