A method for treatment of the symptoms of neurologic dysfunctions, including major depression, an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and schizophrenia. The patient is administered an amount of a compound that increases the catalytic activity of MAO-A.The effective compound is preferably reserpine, administered in a dosage of less than about 0.03 mg per day. The reserpine may be administered topically or transdermally at a dosage in the range from about 0.002 mg per day to about 0.02 mg per day. In homeopathic use, the reserpine may be administered in the form of a homeopathic dilution, preferably as a 12 C homeopathic dilution of reserpine.