This test analyzes the amounts of specific neurotransmitters found in the urine. Although relatively new, this type of analysis has proven clinical usefulness. Seeing the relationships of the amounts of various neurotransmitters leaving the body in the urine, the experienced physician can determine critical relationships among various families of neurotransmitters (such as dopamine, nor-epinephrine, and epinephrine) and between activating and calming classes of neurotransmitters. The levels of neurotransmitters found in the urine are not directly correlated with levels in the brain. Rather, they reflect central activity and availability indirectly.

Treatment of imbalances involves increasing the synthesis of neurotransmitters that are found to be lacking while reducing neurotransmitters found to be in excess. Specific precursor amino acids enable the body to synthesize neurotransmitters that are lacking, and neurotransmitter replenishment has proven to be very helpful for people with a wide range of issues. A whole discipline has evolved around the replenishing of neurotransmitters using supplements, diet, vitamins and minerals that have helped those suffering from sleep and mood disorders. Replenishment is best done in concert with underlying nutritional and micro-nutrient evaluation and protein metabolism balancing.

Analysis of neurotransmitter levels in the urine can also be helpful in evaluating the efficacy of a proposed treatment. For example, if a fundamentally low level of serotonin is found, this may suggest that the use of a serotonin re-uptake inhibitor antidepressant is less likely to be an effective anti-depressant therapy until more serotonin can be made by the body.