Which neurotransmitters are amines?

Many neurotransmitters are classified as amines, which are nitrogen-containing organic compounds derived from ammonia.1

The primary neurotransmitters that are amines include:

• Catecholamines: This group includes dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.12
• Trace amines: These substances are chemically related to monoamines and include compounds such as tryptamine and the phenethylamines.2
• Histamine: This compound functions as a local chemical mediator and is also considered an amine.1
• Serotonin: Often grouped with monoamine neurotransmitters, its levels and activity are significant in the regulation of mood.2

While amino acids like glutamate, aspartate, glycine, and GABA also act as neurotransmitters, they are categorized separately from the amine class of neurotransmitters.32