Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter produced in the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Although nearly 80 to 90% of serotonin is found in the small intestines, it has a great impact upon the emotional health of an individual.

In the nervous system serotonin regulates aggression, anger, mood and sexuality along with other aspects like sleep, appetite and metabolism. It also stimulates vomiting. Serotonin, in the blood is stored in the platelets, which collect it for healing purposes. Recent studies indicate that serotonin also plays an important role in liver regeneration and division of cells.

High levels of serotonin in the brain have been associated with aggression, mood swings and an increased risk of suicide. Some of the drugs that enhance or restrict serotonin in the brain are used to treat psychological disorders, control vomiting and migraine. The various classes of drugs used for this purpose include:

* Psychoactive Drugs that produce mood changes and distorted perceptions. These are part of a wider classification termed as hallucinogens. These include psychedelic drugs that influence the thought process and perceptions and empathogens that produce distinctive emotional and social behavior. Psychedelic drugs mimic serotonin action while empathogens aid in the release of serotonin.
* Antidepressants are a class of drugs used to treat depression. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) prevent the breakdown of serotonin, thus increasing its concentration in the brain. Tricyclic antidepressants including Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), restrict absorption of serotonin, which translates into its availability in active form for a prolonged period.
* Anti-emetic drugs are used to control post operative vomiting and nausea and also during the course of chemotherapeutic treatment of cancer. These act as serotonin antagonists to counter its effect.

Drugs that increase or decrease serotonin levels in the body have serious side effects and are also known for interaction with each other. Abnormally high serotonin levels can lead to a condition known as serotonin syndrome. It is marked by high toxic and potentially fatal effects.

Serotonin syndrome is rarely caused by the use of a single antidepressant. SSRIs and MAOIs are known to interact with each other and such a combination leads to high toxic levels of serotonin. Recent studies also indicate that a combination of antidepressants and psychoactive drugs with anti-emetics, cold pills and diet pills can lead to excessive vasoconstriction, which may cause excruciating headaches, seizures and even a stroke.

Reference:
http://www.healthyp...epression/treatment/antidepressants/articles/007.asp

http://en.wikiped...a.org/wiki/Serotonin

Originally posted 2008-10-20 11:26:11.

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