Serotonin is a chemical that helps send signals within the nervous system. Serotonin syndrome usually occurs when you take an antidepressant called an SSRI or SSNRI with a type of migraine medicine called a triptan. Both medications release serotonin into the body. Other medications can cause serotonin syndrome as well (see Resources below). Too much serotonin can have serious side effects.
Digestive Symptoms
Serotonin syndrome can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Cardiac Symptoms
If you develop serotonin syndrome you may have a fast heartbeat or quick changes in blood pressure.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms of serotonin syndrome include restlessness, hallucinations, clumsiness and twitching and shivering.
Serious Symptoms
Severe serotonin syndrome symptoms include fever, seizures and an irregular heartbeat.
Risks
If serious serotonin syndrome goes untreated, victims can lose consciousness and die.
Treatment
Physicians use fluids, muscle relaxants and anti-serotonin production drugs to treat serotonin syndrome.
Tags: serotonin syndrome, serotonin syndrome, Symptoms Serotonin