The middle and right panels illustrate the loss of serotonin-containing nerve endings following MDMA exposure. Research in rodents and primates has shown that moderate to high doses of MDMA, given twice daily for four days, damages nerve cells that contain serotonin.
Rotenone selectively kills serotonergic neurons through a microtubule-dependent mechanism. J Neurochem. 2007 Oct;103(1):303-11. doi: 10.1111/j.
The drugs and supplements that could potentially cause serotonin syndrome include: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antidepressants such as citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), escitalopram (Lexapro), paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva, Brisdelle) and sertraline (Zoloft)
Some drugs, such as marijuana and heroin, can activate neurons because their chemical structure mimics that of a natural neurotransmitter in the body. This allows the drugs to attach onto and activate the neurons.
As the Mayo Clinic describes, SSRIs work by blocking the brain's reabsorption of serotonin, which appears to help the brain better send and receive chemical messages. This action then helps improve the person's mood.
Serotonin toxicity (commonly referred to as serotonin syndrome) is a potentially life-threatening drug-induced condition caused by too much serotonin in the synapses of the brain. Patients present with a combination of neuromuscular, autonomic, and mental status symptoms.
Antidepressant drug classes and medication examples that can increase serotonin levels include: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): This class includes fluoxetine (Prozac®), citalopram (Celexa®), sertraline (Zoloft®), paroxetine (Paxil®) and escitalopram (Lexapro®).
Medications can block the enzyme that breaks down a neurotransmitter so that more of it reaches nerve receptors. Example: Donepezil, galantamine and rivastigmine block the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Dopamine (DA) is the neurotransmitter that has been classically associated with the reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse and may have a key role in triggering the neurobiological changes associated with addiction.
Examples of central nervous system depressants are benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and certain sleep medicines. Central nervous system depressants are sometimes called sedatives or tranquilizers.
Drugs known as SSRIs—selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors—work by stopping serotonin from being reused by binding to the serotonin transporter (SERT) and blocking serotonin transport.
Study shows blocking serotonin receptors blocks mind-altering effects of LSD. An international team of researchers has found that blocking serotonin receptors in the brain blocks LSD's mind-altering effects.
Serotonin syndrome usually follows from a combination of two or more serotonergic medicines. These include most antidepressants, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).
Amino Acid Therapy
Using specific amino acid supplements is a natural way to help optimize neurotransmitter balance. Supplementation may also complement or eliminate the need for anti-depressants and other psychiatric medications, and can help restore positive outlook and overall function.
Treatment for Chemical Imbalances
Therapy may involve different treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or family-focused therapy. Medications used to treat chemical imbalances include antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers.
A novel 2nd generation antipsychotic used to manage both positive and negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Spiperone is a dopamine antagonist that binds dopamine and serotonin receptors.
Crystal meth releases more dopamine in the brain compared to any other drug. Dopamine is a brain neurotransmitter that serves a number of functions, including the feeling of pleasure.
Research has shown that the drugs most commonly abused by humans (including opiates, alcohol, nicotine, amphetamines, and cocaine) create a neurochemical reaction that significantly increases the amount of dopamine that is released by neurons in the brain's reward center.
Regular exercise is known to increase serotonin levels. Thirty minutes of aerobic exercise five times a week plus two strength-training sessions per week can improve mood disorders and heart health.
Symptoms occur within minutes to hours of taking medicines that can cause serotonin syndrome, and may include: Agitation or restlessness. Abnormal eye movements. Diarrhea.
Low serotonin can happen because your body does not make enough or it does not use it efficiently. There are likely several factors that cause or contribute to this. These may include genetics, stress, chronic pain, and nutritional deficiencies.
Untreated, serotonin syndrome can be deadly. With treatment, symptoms usually go away in less than 24 hours. Permanent organ damage may result, even with treatment.
No single test can confirm a serotonin syndrome diagnosis. Your doctor will diagnose the condition by ruling out other possibilities. Your doctor will likely begin by asking about your symptoms, medical history and any medications you're taking. Your doctor will also conduct a physical examination.