If it’s left untreated, serotonin syndrome can potentially lead to death.
If your symptoms are getting worse or they’re severe, head to the emergency room or call 911.
This is known asSSRI discontinuation syndrome.
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Because of this risk, you must never stop taking your antidepressant abruptly without discussing it with your doctor.
Risk Factors for Serotonin Syndrome
Your risk of developing serotonin syndrome goes up under the following circumstances.
Treatment may also include the use of medications to relieve symptoms or hospitalization to stabilize your condition.
Drugs that specifically act against serotonin, called serotonin antagonists, can potentially be useful.
Hospitalization
If your symptoms are worrisome, your doctor may have you hospitalized until you’re stabilized.
Also, always follow your doctor’s prescribing instructions.
Do not change your dose or stop taking your medication without first talking to your doctor.
Volpi-Abadie J, Kaye AM, Kaye AD.Serotonin syndrome.Ochsner J.2013;13(4):533-540.
Boyer EW.Serotonin Syndrome (Serotonin Toxicity).
Updated March 12, 2018.
Mayo Clinic Staff.Serotonin Syndrome.
Updated January 20, 2017.
The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. National Institutes of Health.
U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Updated August 14, 2018.
