Serotonin toxicity: Implications for clinical practice

Abstract

Introduction Serotonin toxicity - or serotonin syndrome - is a potentially life threatening adverse reaction to the use of one or more serotonergic drugs. Patients presenting with low-level obscure symptoms may have pathophysiology rooted in adverse dopamine and serotonergic poly-pharmacy reactions involving illegal, over-the-counter and/or prescription drugs. Aim This paper presents an overview of serotonin toxicity, the criteria for diagnosing serotonin toxicity, and discusses management strategies. Conclusion Due to the increasing prevalence of serotonergic drugs, both legal and illicit, a high index of suspicion for serotonin toxicity across a broad patient demographic is recommended. We also recommend education and further research to both raise awareness and advance the clinical competence of health care providers.