Serotonin Syndrome: Causes, Risks, and What Medications Can Trigger It

When your body gets too much serotonin, a natural chemical that helps regulate mood, sleep, and digestion. Also known as serotonin toxicity, it doesn’t happen from one pill alone—it’s usually the result of mixing medications that boost serotonin levels. This isn’t a mild side effect. It’s a medical emergency that can spike your heart rate, raise your temperature, and cause seizures if ignored.

Many common drugs can push serotonin too high. MAOIs, a class of older antidepressants that stop serotonin breakdown are especially risky when combined with SSRIs, like citalopram or fluoxetine, which increase serotonin production. Even over-the-counter cough syrups with dextromethorphan or herbal supplements like St. John’s wort can set off the reaction when taken with antidepressants. The posts here cover real cases—like how mixing Anafranil with an SSRI led to confusion and tremors, or why switching from Viramune to newer HIV drugs reduces serotonin risks. You’ll also find guides on how long to wait between stopping one drug and starting another (the washout period), because timing matters just as much as the drugs themselves.

It’s not just about antidepressants. Blood pressure meds like alfuzosin, migraine drugs like rizatriptan, and even painkillers like tramadol can add to the problem if you’re already on something that raises serotonin. The key is knowing your combo. Many people don’t realize they’re at risk because their doctor prescribed each drug separately, never looking at the full picture. That’s why the collection below includes detailed comparisons of drug interactions, side effect profiles, and safer alternatives—so you can spot danger before it hits.

If you’re on more than one medication that affects serotonin, you need to know the signs: agitation, sweating, fast heartbeat, muscle stiffness, or sudden fever. It can start within hours. Don’t wait for all symptoms to appear. If you feel off after changing meds or adding something new, get help fast. The posts here don’t just list risks—they give you the tools to talk to your doctor, recognize early warning signs, and avoid dangerous combinations before they happen.