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test

Dopamine Metabolites

ANALYTES

Analytes are the substances measured in this test, which include:


  • Dopamine

  • 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic acid - DOPAC

  • Homovanillic Acid - HVA

  • Vanillylmandelic Acid - VMA


Please note further analytes in this test are used for both:


  • Serotonin Deficiency 

  • SNS Hyperactivity 


If you have been indicated with these, this test provides comprehensive coverage for their evaluation.

rESULTS

sample Req.

Dopamine measured in the blood or urine reflects peripheral production rather than brain dopamine levels. This is because dopamine within the brain is synthesised locally in dopaminergic neurons and remains compartmentalised, as it does not cross the blood–brain barrier. Consequently, circulating dopamine concentrations cannot be used to determine localised brain dopamine levels.


In contrast, dopamine metabolites such as DOPAC and HVA, provide a more informative measure of overall dopamine. These metabolites are generated following dopamine breakdown in both brain and peripheral tissues. After formation within the brain, metabolites diffuse into cerebrospinal fluid and enter systemic circulation, ultimately to be excreted in urine. For this reason, they serve as more meaningful indicators of whole-body dopamine, including brain levels.


These metabolites are interpreted in relation to reference ranges to determine whether levels fall within limits consistent with peripheral and brain dopamine deficiency.


  • DOPAC is an intermediate metabolite formed when dopamine is broken down by MAO

  • HVA is the primary end-metabolite of dopamine. 

  • VMA is a downstream metabolite of catecholamines, including dopamine that has been converted into noradrenaline and adrenaline. It reflects broader catecholamine metabolism rather than dopamine alone. 

Urine

cOST

$413

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The results of your health assessment have identified specific signs and symptoms that are clinically consistent with an increased risk of


  • Dopamine Deficiency


Dopamine Deficiency is associated with a range of signs and symptoms, which have been clinically verified to include


  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  • Inattention 

  • Challenges with starting, sequencing, and completing tasks.

  • Hyperactivity

  • Impaired Memory

  • Loss of Pleasure

  • Diminished Drive

  • Cautious 

  • Prioritising Safety and Stability 

  • Predictable

  • Slow Tempered

  • Averse to high-energy pursuits

  • Reproductive hormone imbalances

  • Addictions 

  • Restless Legs


This investigation is optional and may be used to verify the need for therapeutic intervention for specific anti-inflammatory support for Dopamine Deficiency


In the absence of testing, treatment is tailored to address suspected contributors based on the presence of specific signs and symptoms and their degree of correlation with those contributors. If testing is undertaken, the assessment will be re-evaluated in accordance with the test results. You will be updated with the test results alongside any treatment revisions necessary.

A urinary collection kit will be provided for the assessment of neurotransmitter levels. The kit includes detailed instructions outlining the required collection protocol. 


A pre-addressed, secure return package is included to facilitate safe transport of the specimen to the laboratory, where quantitative analysis will be performed using validated analytical techniques. 


Estimated Turnaround Time: 15 business days

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