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Serotonin increases stroke risk

by Medindia Content Team on Jan 10 2002 3:56 PM

According to a new study the use of serotonin-raising drugs like antidepressants and slimming pills in combination may trigger a stroke. In common the mecahnism of durgs is by increasing the levels of serotonin, a natural chemical with many different roles in the body. Examples include diet pills, anti-migraine drugs and some of the newer antidepressants.

Researchers at the Health welfare hospital, warn of the potential dangers of using such drugs in combination. They may narrow the blood vessels in the brain to such an extent that a stroke is precipitated. The experts warn that doctors should consider the possibility of these drugs being the culprit whenever a patient reports a sudden, severe headache.

On no account should such patients be prescribed other serotonin drugs - like a migraine treatment - if they suddenly get a bad headache or even develop seizures.


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