Serotonin Syndrome: What Happens If You Have Too Much Serotonin?

Serotonin Syndrome: Signs of Too Much Serotonin

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps stabilize mood, is often associated with feelings of happiness, and plays a role in sleep quality, memory, and sexual desire. However, too much serotonin can lead to harmful effects. These effects are known as serotonin syndrome.

When Do Signs of Serotonin Syndrome Begin?

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can begin within minutes, a few hours, or up to 24 hours after taking or increasing the dose of a medication.

Most individuals experiencing symptoms of serotonin syndrome will seek emergency treatment within six hours.

What Causes Serotonin Syndrome?

Serotonin syndrome, or serotonin toxicity, is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition caused by dangerously high serotonin levels in the brain. It's generally caused by taking two or more medications that raise serotonin levels (aka serotonergic drugs) in the central nervous system.

Substances that may contribute to excess serotonin levels include:

• Some types of antidepressants
• Triptan migraine medications
• Illicit drugs such as cocaine, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), amphetamines, and ecstasy
• Herbal supplements such as St. John's wort, nutmeg, and ginseng
• Certain cold medications
• Some anti-nausea medications

SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are all classes of antidepressant medications that have been known to lead to serotonin syndrome.

These antidepressants are often prescribed to treat depression and anxiety disorders, including panic disorder.

Potential Effects of Serotonin Syndrome

If you've had too much serotonin, some effects (although rare) may include:

• Organ damage (permanent)
• Muscle spasms (this can lead to the breakdown of your muscles)
• Kidney damage

Can Too Much Serotonin Cause Anxiety?

It is possible that drugs containing serotonin can lead to anxiety. For instance, anxiety is a potential side effect of Prozac (fluoxetine).

Serotonin Syndrome Treatment

Since serotonin syndrome can be potentially life-threatening, emergency medical treatment is necessary. Treatment often begins with the withdrawal of the medications that lead to your high serotonin levels.

However, some complications, such as delirium, unstable heart rate, high blood pressure, and high temperature may persist longer.

Serotonin Syndrome Prevention

To prevent serotonin syndrome, be sure to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements.

If you're taking a medication that impacts serotonin levels, talk to your doctor about your risk of developing serotonin syndrome.