Definition:
The chemical that enables brain cells and nervous cells to communicate together and is produced by the body is called Serotonin. If the body produces too little serotonin it will cause depression. However, excessive production of serotonin can lead to excessive nerve cell activity, causing serotonin syndrome.
What are the Causes of Serotonin Syndrome?
Generally, the condition takes place when you combine two or more medications, illicit drugs, or nutritional supplements that raise serotonin levels. For instance, you might take medicine to help with a migraine after already taking an antidepressant. Certain types of prescription medications, such as antibiotics, antivirals used to treat HIV and AIDS, and some prescription medications …show more content…
• A complete physical exam and medical history evaluation including assessment of all the current medications one is taking
• Blood test to establish serotonin levels
• Determining blood levels of medications being taken, analyzing current medications being taken
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Radiological imaging studies to detect presence of tumors

• Kidney function test to determine severity of muscle breakdown
• Spinal tap with CSF analysis to rule out an infectious cause
• A differential diagnosis to eliminate the following conditions may be necessary, prior to arriving at a definite diagnosis:

o Anticholinergic toxicity o Heatstroke o Malignant hypothermia o Meningitis o Neuroleptic malignant syndrome o Severe alcohol withdrawal
How is Serotonin Syndrome