Ordering the HPA Axis with Neurotransmitters Test
The HPA Axis with Neurotransmitters test measures key adrenal hormones and neurotransmitters to help identify imbalances linked to stress, mood changes, and fatigue. This test is often used to check for patterns that may be connected to symptoms like low energy, trouble sleeping, mood swings, and feeling overwhelmed. Interestingly, this test can also reveal how chronic stress may affect both hormone and brain chemical levels, which is not always obvious from symptoms alone.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Pinpoint if cortisol or DHEA-s levels are out of range at different times of the day
- Identify imbalances in serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and other neurotransmitters that may affect mood and focus
- Track how stress is impacting both your adrenal function and brain chemistry
- Guide your healthcare provider in choosing targeted support for stress, sleep, or mood
- Monitor changes over time to see if treatments or lifestyle changes are working
Who Should Consider Neuroendocrine and Neurotransmitter Testing
People who feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, struggle with mood changes, or notice they are more anxious or irritable than usual may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has been feeling mentally foggy, has trouble falling asleep, and finds it hard to handle daily stress might find answers through this testing.
Ordering this test may also be helpful if you:
- Experience frequent mood swings or emotional ups and downs
- Have ongoing trouble with sleep, such as waking up often or not feeling rested
- Notice increased nervousness, restlessness, or tension without a clear reason
- Feel exhausted or burned out after periods of high stress or major life changes
- Have unexplained headaches or digestive issues that seem to worsen with stress
Testing can help you find out if your symptoms are linked to changes in adrenal hormones or neurotransmitters, which can be measured and tracked over time. Delaying this test may mean missing the chance to address imbalances early, which could make symptoms harder to manage later.
How to Prepare for the Test
Fasting is not required for this test, and you can collect your urine and saliva samples at home as directed. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or healthcare provider to make sure your samples are collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your HPA Axis with Neurotransmitters Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Measures | Low and High Levels of HPA Axis with Neurotransmitters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neurotransmitters | |||
| Serotonin | 100-225 | Serotonin is a brain chemical that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. It is often called the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. |
High levels mean you may feel overly sleepy or sluggish.
Low levels mean you may feel sad, anxious, or have trouble sleeping. |
| GABA | 350-700 | GABA is a calming neurotransmitter that helps reduce nervousness and promote relaxation. It plays a role in managing stress and sleep. |
High levels mean you may feel drowsy or have slow thinking.
Low levels mean you may feel anxious, tense, or have trouble relaxing. |
| Dopamine | 125-200 | Dopamine is linked to motivation, focus, and pleasure. It helps with attention, drive, and feeling rewarded. |
High levels mean you may feel restless or have trouble focusing.
Low levels mean you may feel unmotivated, tired, or have trouble concentrating. |
| Norepinephrine | 30-55 | Norepinephrine helps the body respond to stress and is involved in alertness and energy. It is sometimes called noradrenaline. |
High levels mean you may feel jittery, anxious, or have a fast heartbeat.
Low levels mean you may feel tired, low energy, or have trouble staying alert. |
| Epinephrine | 1-10 | Epinephrine, also called adrenaline, is released during stress and helps the body react quickly. It affects heart rate and energy. |
High levels mean you may feel panicky or have trouble calming down.
Low levels mean you may feel sluggish or have a slow response to stress. |
| Glutamate | 15-30 | Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter that helps with learning and memory. It is important for brain function and communication between nerve cells. |
High levels mean you may feel overstimulated or have trouble relaxing.
Low levels mean you may have trouble with memory or focus. |
| Norepi/Epi Ratio | 3-7 | This ratio compares norepinephrine to epinephrine to show how the body is handling stress. It can help spot imbalances in the stress response. |
High levels mean your body may be in a constant state of alertness.
Low levels mean your stress response may be blunted or less active. |
| Adrenal Hormones | |||
| Cortisol (4x Samples) | Morning: 0.15-0.45 Afternoon: 0.05-0.15 Evening: 0.02-0.09 Night: 0.01-0.05 |
Cortisol is a hormone made by the adrenal glands that helps control stress, blood sugar, and energy. Four samples show how levels change throughout the day. |
High levels mean you may feel wired, anxious, or have trouble sleeping.
Low levels mean you may feel tired, weak, or have low stamina. |
| DHEA-s (2x Samples) | Morning: 2-10 Evening: 1-6 |
DHEA-s is a hormone made by the adrenal glands that helps balance other hormones and supports energy and mood. Two samples show changes from morning to evening. |
High levels mean you may have oily skin or unwanted hair growth.
Low levels mean you may feel tired, have low mood, or reduced muscle strength. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods or as new research becomes available.
HPA Axis with Neurotransmitters FAQ
Is there HPA Axis with Neurotransmitters testing near me?
This is a home test kit, so you can collect your urine and saliva samples locally and mail them in, making it easier if you’re dealing with fatigue or stress and need a convenient option. For more details on where to drop off or mail your kit, check the draw location link at the top of the page.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand your results and what they mean for your symptoms.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see includes standard shipping to you and back to the lab, but draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you find out if stress or mood symptoms are linked to hormone or neurotransmitter changes, so you can start feeling better sooner.
How often should I retest?
It’s best to retest every 3 to 6 months, especially if you’re making changes to your treatment or lifestyle, so you can track progress and adjust your plan as needed.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for neurotransmitters and enzyme immunoassay for hormones, with a specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
None.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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