Final answer:
Medicines that have an increased risk of serotonin syndrome primarily include SSRIs and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as they increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can lead to a potentially toxic buildup when combined.
Step-by-step explanation:
Meds with Increased Risk of Serotonin Syndrome
Medicines that increase the risk of serotonin syndrome primarily include Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). These medicines enhance serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reabsorption into neurons. Among the SSRIs, notable examples include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), paroxetine (Paxil), and escitalopram (Lexapro). These are usually prescribed for depression and some anxiety disorders, and have largely succeeded older tricyclic antidepressants due to fewer anticholinergic side effects.However, the risk of serotonin syndrome is heightened when these are combined with other substances that also affect serotonergic systems. This includes monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate), which inhibit the breakdown of neurotransmitters and can lead to a toxic buildup. Other substances that pose a risk when taken with SSRIs or MAOIs include overdose on prescription or over-the-counter medications, and illegal drugs that increase serotonin levels.