Serotonin is an essential nerurotransmitter within the brain and is vital to proper brain function. Serotonin affects moods, emotions, appetite and sleep. Depression is the primary issue resulting from serotonin deficiencies, but other parts of daily functioning are also affected by low serotonin levels. Drugs to increase serotonin levels may help alleviate conditions caused by a lack of sufficient serotonin in the brain, but can also cause an excess of serotonin, which can be detrimental.
SSRIs
The most commonly used medications to increase serotonin are a class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. SSRI medications work by blocking the reabsorption or reuptake of serotonin by nerve cells with the brain, leaving more serotonin available in the brain. The first SSRI approved by the FDA was Prozac in 1987, and now multiple SSRIs are FDA-approved including Celexa, Lexapro, Paxil and Zoloft.
Triptans
Triptans are a class of medications know as serotonin receptor agonists and are used to treat migraine headaches. Common triptans are Axert, Frova, Maxalt, Imitrex and Zomig and work by narrowing the blood vessels within the brain to relieve swelling that results in a migraine headaches. Triptans act on serotonin within the brain, often causing an increase of serotonin in patients. In the majority of patients this is not a problem and may help reduce migraines; however, if an SSRI is also being taken there is a risk of too much serotonin being produced and causing negative side effects.
5 HTP
5 HTP is a naturally occurring substance within the brain that is the metabolic precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. A review conducted by Vanderbilt University of research regarding 5 HTP and depression explains that studies have shown 5 HTP is effective in reducing symptoms of depression. The reduction in depression symptoms results from the increase in serotonin that results from taking 5 HTP in supplement form. Supplementing the body with 5 HTP increases serotonin by supplying the material needed to produce serotonin. 5 HTP is often used as a natural treatment for depression in place of an SSRI.
