migraine serotonin
Migraine Serotonin
Many of the prescription drugs used to treat migraines affect serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating a variety of bodily functions including sleep, depression, pain, anxiety, and….migraines. It has long been noticed by doctors that antidepressants seem to also reduce migraine attacks among migraine sufferers. For this reason antidepressants are now commonly prescribed for “off label use” (meaning used for a purpose other than originally intended) as migraine preventatives.
When used as intended, serotonin affecting migraine medications can be helpful. However when consumed in excess (in a single dosage or in combination with other medications), it is entirely possible to have a life threatening reaction known as “serotonin syndrome.”
How does this happen?
It is not that uncommon for the average migraine sufferer to take a combination of serotonin affecting prescription medicines to treat their migraines. Some medications may be taken daily to prevent migraine attacks – this may include anti-depressant selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors like Prozac. These medication increase serotonin levels in the brain. Other medications like Triptans, also affect serotonin levels, and are intended to be taken at the onset of a migraine attack in order to stop an attack from developing.
When medications are combined, taken in multiple doses, combined with herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort, or used in any way other than intended, its entirely possible to consume a toxic amount – even if you are not experiencing any relief from your symptoms. This is important to note as many people will take a second dose of medication because they do not feel any effects from the first. This is actually quite dangerous as even if you do not feel migraine relief, your serotonin levels will increase regardless.
Serotonin Syndrome also known as Serotonin Toxicity
Since serotonin regulates a variety of necessary bodily functions such as blood flow and breathing, an excess of this vital neurotransmitter can have a dangerous effect.
When serotonin levels in the body become too high symptoms are usually noticeable immediately.
These symptoms include:
Agitation
Confusion
Dilated pupils
Diarrhea
Elevated heart rate
Loss of muscle coordination
Shivering, sweating, and goosebumps
Twitching
Signs that your serotonin toxicity may be life threatening include:
Heart beat irregularity
High temperature
Loss of consciousness
Seizures
Any of these symptoms should prompt you to immediately seek medical attention.
