By Sleep is a complex neurobiological process that is controlled by excitatory and inhibitory neurotrasmitters/hormones
| EXCITATORY (AWAKE) – TURN ON | INHIBITORY (ASLEEP) – TURN OFF |
| Energizing, Motivating and Provides Focus & Alertness | Calming, Relaxing, Slowing down & Sleep inducing |
| Norepinephrine | Gabapentin |
| Epinephrine | Adenosine |
| Cortisol | Nitric Oxide |
| Orexin | Melatonin |
| Acetylcholine | Serotonin |
| Glutamate | Glycine |
| Histamine | |
| Dopamine |
References:
1. J Clin Psychiatry . 2004;65 Suppl 16:4-7
2. Sleep Med Clin. 2010 Dec; 5(4): 513–528