Do Triptans raise seritonin levels?
I believe I suffer from depression, borderline - little motivation, fatigue, lose focus easily - but I'm NOT feeling sad, worthless, or suicidal. When I use Amerge Oral to get rid of a migraine, I've recently noticed I also feel NORMALLY motivated and have energy to get things done- after the migraine is gone. It's a wonderful thing! So, is my seratonin level being rasied by the Amerge, and is there a clue here as to what antidepressant I might take? I've avoided seeking help for this as I have friends who struggle with finding the right anti-depressent. I've had other health issues to take care of rather than this one. Many years ago, I mentioned this to my doctor and was given Efexor and my experience with it was that I was unable to get out of bed - quit it quickly. I've decided to go to a doctor about this again, as I want the NORMAL more often. And, what type of doctor should I see for the antidepressant?
Hi karen,
First it is important to get an accurate diagosis from a doctor whether or not you do suffer from depression. Some people who have Migraine disease also suffer from other comorbid conditions, they occur together but are not caused by one another. Depression, thyroid issues and bi-polar are a few. This article has useful information for you: Migraine Disease and Bipolar Disorder, a Link. You may want to talk to your primary care doctor first for an evaluation.
Now, onto Amerge. It's not that the triptans like Amerge raise your serontonin levels, they seem to work to by targeting the nerves and blood vessels thought to trigger a Migraine attack-block certain receptors that may trigger an attack all while there is a tiny bit of vasoconstriction going on to abort the attack. (This is in very laymans terms as I undertsand it)
Antidepressants, Triptans, and Serotonin Syndrome may give you some insight to your question on serotonin. But the most important part of this article is below:
"The FDA has reviewed 27 reports of serotonin syndrome. In 13 cases, the patients were hospitalized. Two cases were considered to be life threatening.This advisory is neither totally new information nor any reason to panic if you are currently taking this medication combination. Triptans already carry a warning in their prescribing information warning of possible problems when also taking antidepressants. Serotonin syndrome, although potentially fatal, is not common. If you are concerned about your medications, contact your physician."
I hope this helps,
Nancy
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