Guide To Understanding Serotonin

Serotonin Syndrome

Serotonin syndrome is a dangerous condition where an individual experiences an inappropriate elevation of serotonin in their body. Serotonergic drugs cause serotonin syndrome. These are medications that change the level of serotonin in an individual's body. Patients who take one or more of these medications can develop this syndrome when their dose is increased. Serotonin syndrome can also occur when patients overdose on the medication, whether it is intentional or unintentional. An individual may develop this syndrome when they take two of these medications simultaneously.

Several medications have been implicated in serotonin syndrome. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as fluoxetine, have been known to induce this condition. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, including duloxetine, have as well. Other medications that can cause this syndrome include phenelzine, nortriptyline, and bupropion.

Continue reading to learn about the link between serotonin and depression next.