Changing signalling in the brain's dopamine systems, which are involved in motivation, movement, reward and some hormone control. The word modulation is used rather than agonism because most compounds here act indirectly, on release, reuptake, turnover or receptor sensitivity, rather than binding a dopamine receptor themselves. In many records the specific step is not established.

Why it matters here

Records claiming drive, motivation or focus usually point here, and the honest version of such a claim names the step in the system rather than the feeling it is meant to produce.

Also called

• dopamine
• dopaminergic
• dopamine tone
• dopamine modulation

Dopamine tone refers to the background level of dopamine signalling in a circuit. It is not a dose, a blood level, or a measurement anyone can order.

Compounds carrying this term

• Adamax
• Semax

See also

• BDNF/TrkB Signaling — Mechanism of Action
• Cognitive Performance — Reported Outcome
• Mood & Anxiety — Reported Outcome