Ordering the Advanced Neurotransmitter Profile | ZRT | Canada
The Advanced Neurotransmitter Profile from ZRT Lab helps identify imbalances in brain chemicals that may affect mood, focus, memory, and sleep. This test measures a wide range of neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, GABA, and norepinephrine, which are linked to symptoms like anxiety, brain fog, and irritability. Interestingly, neurotransmitter levels can also influence how the body responds to stress and hormonal changes, which may not always be obvious.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Pinpoint specific neurotransmitter imbalances that may be linked to mood swings or trouble focusing
- Track changes in dopamine, serotonin, and GABA that may relate to fatigue or sleep issues
- Identify patterns in stress-related chemicals like norepinephrine and epinephrine
- Support your healthcare provider in creating a targeted plan for emotional and cognitive symptoms
- Monitor the effects of lifestyle or nutrition changes on brain chemistry over time
Who Should Consider Neurotransmitter and Mood Testing
People who notice ongoing trouble with memory, focus, or mood changes—such as feeling unusually anxious, having trouble sleeping, or experiencing frequent irritability—may benefit from this type of testing. For example, someone who has tried different approaches for managing stress or low energy but still feels mentally foggy or emotionally unsteady could use this test to find out if neurotransmitter levels are playing a role.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering information at work or school
- Frequent mood swings or emotional ups and downs
- Problems falling or staying asleep, even with good sleep habits
- Unexplained digestive changes, as gut health can affect neurotransmitter production
Testing for neurotransmitter levels can reveal specific chemical patterns that may be linked to symptoms like brain fog, low motivation, or trouble sleeping. Delaying this type of testing could mean missing the chance to address imbalances early, which may make it harder to track changes or see improvement with targeted support. To move forward, consider ordering the test to get a clearer picture of your brain chemistry.
How to Prepare for the Test
Fasting is not required for this test, so you can eat and drink as usual before collecting your sample. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Advanced Neurotransmitter Profile
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels of Advanced Neurotransmitter Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| GABA | 100-350 | GABA is a calming neurotransmitter that helps reduce nervousness and promote relaxation. It plays a key role in managing stress and supporting restful sleep. |
High levels mean the body may be compensating for high stress or anxiety.
Low levels mean there may be increased risk of feeling anxious, restless, or having trouble sleeping. |
| Glutamate | 10-40 | Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory. It helps with brain signaling and cognitive function. |
High levels mean there may be overstimulation, which can lead to headaches or trouble focusing.
Low levels mean memory and learning may be affected, and mental clarity could decrease. |
| Glycine | 250-600 | Glycine is both a calming and excitatory neurotransmitter. It helps regulate mood, sleep, and supports healthy brain function. |
High levels mean there may be increased drowsiness or sluggishness.
Low levels mean sleep quality and mood balance may be reduced. |
| Dopamine | 125-250 | Dopamine is linked to motivation, focus, and feelings of pleasure. It is important for attention, drive, and emotional balance. |
High levels mean there may be increased impulsivity or agitation.
Low levels mean motivation, focus, and mood may be lower than usual. |
| Epinephrine | 1-10 | Epinephrine, also called adrenaline, is released during stress and helps the body respond to challenges. It affects energy, alertness, and heart rate. |
High levels mean the body may be under ongoing stress or anxiety.
Low levels mean there may be low energy or trouble responding to stress. |
| Histamine | 15-50 | Histamine is involved in immune response and also acts as a neurotransmitter. It can affect alertness, sleep, and allergic reactions. |
High levels mean there may be more allergic symptoms or trouble sleeping.
Low levels mean alertness and focus may be reduced. |
| Norepinephrine | 20-60 | Norepinephrine helps regulate mood, attention, and the body’s response to stress. It is important for staying alert and focused. |
High levels mean there may be ongoing stress, anxiety, or trouble relaxing.
Low levels mean focus, energy, and motivation may be lower. |
| Serotonin | 100-225 | Serotonin helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. It is often linked to feelings of calm and emotional stability. |
High levels mean there may be agitation or restlessness.
Low levels mean mood may be lower, and sleep or appetite may be affected. |
| Phenethylamine | 10-30 | Phenethylamine is linked to mood and attention. It helps support feelings of alertness and focus. |
High levels mean there may be increased energy or restlessness.
Low levels mean focus and mood may be lower. |
| DOPAC | 800-2000 | DOPAC is a breakdown product of dopamine. It helps show how the body is using and clearing dopamine. |
High levels mean dopamine is being broken down quickly.
Low levels mean dopamine use or production may be lower. |
| HVA | 1500-4500 | HVA is another marker of dopamine breakdown. It helps track dopamine activity in the brain and body. |
High levels mean dopamine is being used or cleared quickly.
Low levels mean dopamine activity may be lower. |
| 5-HIAA | 2000-6000 | 5-HIAA is a breakdown product of serotonin. It helps show how much serotonin is being used and cleared by the body. |
High levels mean serotonin is being broken down quickly.
Low levels mean serotonin use or production may be lower. |
| Normetanephrine | 100-400 | Normetanephrine is a breakdown product of norepinephrine. It helps track how the body is processing stress-related chemicals. |
High levels mean the body may be under ongoing stress.
Low levels mean stress response may be lower or less active. |
| VMA | 2-7 | VMA is a marker of both epinephrine and norepinephrine breakdown. It helps show how the body is handling stress and energy demands. |
High levels mean the body is breaking down stress hormones quickly.
Low levels mean stress hormone activity may be lower. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods or as new research becomes available.
Advanced Neurotransmitter Profile FAQ
Is there Advanced Neurotransmitter Profile testing near me?
This is a home test kit that you can collect locally, and you can check the draw location link at the top of the page for more details. For people dealing with ongoing mood or focus issues, having a convenient way to collect your sample at home can make it easier to get answers without extra travel or waiting.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should always help you interpret your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand your results and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for this test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping back to the lab, though draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you find out if neurotransmitter imbalances are linked to your symptoms, which may help you get the right support sooner.
How often should I retest?
It is usually recommended to retest every 3 to 6 months, especially if you are making changes to your nutrition, supplements, or treatment plan. Regular retesting helps track how your neurotransmitter levels respond to changes and supports more targeted adjustments.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses advanced liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for precise measurement of neurotransmitters in dried urine samples, 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
- This test cannot be shipped to and collected in the states of New York and Maryland.
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.
Why Customers Trust True Health Labs - What People are saying
Also rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 3452 ShopperApproved reviews- See all TrueHealthLabs.com reviews.
