CEA Nursing Practice Exam

If a patient is suspected to be suffering from clinical depression, which neurotransmitter is likely to be deficient?

1. GABA

2. Serotonin

3. Dobutamine

4. Glutamate

The correct answer is: Serotonin

When considering clinical depression, serotonin is the neurotransmitter most commonly associated with mood regulation. Research has indicated that individuals experiencing depression often exhibit lower levels of serotonin, which can lead to symptoms such as persistent sadness, anxiety, and a lack of interest in activities. The role of serotonin in mood stabilization and emotional well-being is well established, making it a primary target in the pharmacological treatment of depression. In contrast, while GABA is an important inhibitory neurotransmitter associated with anxiety and mood disorders, it is not specifically linked to depression in the same direct manner as serotonin. Dobutamine, primarily used in heart failure treatment, is unrelated to psychiatric conditions. Glutamate, the main excitatory neurotransmitter, is involved in learning and memory but is not singularly responsible for mood regulation like serotonin. Thus, the identification of serotonin as the deficient neurotransmitter in clinical depression reflects key insights from both neuroscience and clinical practice.