Question:
In depression, there is a deficiency of which neurotransmitter?
In depression, there is a deficiency of which neurotransmitter?
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Think which neurotransmitter SSRIs target to relieve low mood.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
- 5-HT
- Acetylcholine
- Dopamine
- GABA
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: The monoamine hypothesis of depression states that depressive illness results from a functional deficiency of monoamine neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, chiefly serotonin (5-HT) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine).
Step 2: Among these, serotonin (5-HT) is regarded as the single most important neurotransmitter implicated in depression. Reduced serotonergic activity explains the low mood, disturbed sleep, poor appetite and suicidal ideation seen in depressed patients. This is why selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are first-line antidepressants.
Step 3: The other options do not fit. Mania is associated with increased noradrenaline, dopamine excess is linked to schizophrenia and psychosis, acetylcholine deficiency is central to Alzheimer disease, and GABA deficiency is linked to anxiety and seizure disorders rather than depression.
Conclusion: Therefore the neurotransmitter deficient in depression is 5-HT.
Step 2: Among these, serotonin (5-HT) is regarded as the single most important neurotransmitter implicated in depression. Reduced serotonergic activity explains the low mood, disturbed sleep, poor appetite and suicidal ideation seen in depressed patients. This is why selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are first-line antidepressants.
Step 3: The other options do not fit. Mania is associated with increased noradrenaline, dopamine excess is linked to schizophrenia and psychosis, acetylcholine deficiency is central to Alzheimer disease, and GABA deficiency is linked to anxiety and seizure disorders rather than depression.
Conclusion: Therefore the neurotransmitter deficient in depression is 5-HT.
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