Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (Gaba) and the Dopamine Hypothesis of Schizophrenia

gamma-Aminobutyric acid (Gaba) has been shown to influence dopamine activity in the brain. The author suggests that Gaba could be involved in the hypothesized dopamine hyperactivity in schizophrenia. He discusses pharmacological interventions that may raise Gaba-mediated function in the brain and states that further development of Gaba analogues seems clearly indicated. It is conceivable, he concludes, that these compounds could enhance the antipsychotic activity of dopamine receptor blockers, which could lead to the use of lower doses and therefore fewer extrapyramidal side effects.