Description
A reaction to medications that have serotonin activity. Serotonin is a brain hormone also known as a "neurotransmitter". The reaction known as serotonin syndrome usually occurs when several medications are taken. These medications include: antidepressants, triptans for migraines, pain medications, anti-nausea medications, lithium, over-the-counter cold medications. Patients can experience restlessness, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status and seizures
Symptoms
Restlessness, hallucinations, incoordination, fast heartbeat, rapid changes in blood pressure, fever, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle twitching, weakness, abdominal pain, anxiety, seizures, coma.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to rule out other causes of the symptoms may be done.
Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Urine or serum toxicology screen
Specialists:
Medical Toxicology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to rule out other causes of the symptoms may be done.
Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Urine or serum toxicology screen
Specialists:
Medical Toxicology
Treatment
Therapy includes supporting the vital signs and withdrawing the medications that caused the syndrome. Some medications may help: cyproheptadine (Periactin), benzodiazepines (Valium, Ativan), and/or blood pressure medications.