Brainstorms December 15, 1997

Serotonin: It's Possible to Have Too Much of a Good Thing

Stephen M. Stahl

J Clin Psychiatry 1997;58(12):520-521

Article Abstract

Serotonin has been at the heart of innovation in psychopharmacology for the past decade. Serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in particular have led the way, but many other agents also act on serotonin, in one fashion or another. These include other antidepressants, as well as novel atypical antipsychotics, various antiemetics, modern migraine therapies, and certain drugs of abuse. Also included is the appetite suppressant fenfluramine, both in its d,l form (Pondimin) and in its pure d form (Redux).