Serotonin releasing agents

Serotonin releasing agents (SRAs) are a type of drug that induces the release of serotonin into the neuronal synapse. They are commonly used in the treatment of various mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Mechanism of Action

SRAs work by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. SRAs stimulate the release of serotonin from the presynaptic neuron into the synapse, where it can bind to serotonin receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. This increased serotonin activity can help alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders.

Types of Serotonin Releasing Agents

There are several different types of SRAs, including:

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): These are the most commonly prescribed type of SRA. They work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, allowing more of it to remain in the synapse. Examples include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and escitalopram (Lexapro).

• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): These drugs increase the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Examples include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): These are older drugs that inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down serotonin in the brain. Examples include phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate).

Side Effects and Risks

Like all drugs, SRAs can have side effects. These can include nausea, insomnia, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction. In rare cases, they can cause a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome, which is characterized by agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and high body temperature.

See Also

• Antidepressant
• Neurotransmitter
• Psychopharmacology