Description
Rocio Reyes Echemendia
Serotonin and melatonin are neurotransmitters that play crucial roles in the central nervous system and are associated with various physiological processes. The pharmacology action of serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is that regulates mood, appetite, sleep, and various other functions (De Deurwaerdère & Di Giovanni, 2020). It is synthesized in nerve cells and released into the synaptic cleft, where it binds to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron (Bamalan et al., 2023). The drug class it is most closely linked is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (De Deurwaerdère & Di Giovanni, 2020). Some expected outcomes are the improvement of mood and alleviation of symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia, among others (De Deurwaerdère & Di Giovanni, 2020). In addition, common side effects of SSRIs may include nausea, insomnia, headache, and sexual dysfunction (Bamalan et al., 2023). In some cases, there may be more serious side effects, such as serotonin syndrome, which can occur when there is an excess of serotonin in the body (Bamalan et al., 2023).
On the other hand, the pharmacologic action of melatonin is that regulates the sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm). Melatonin agonists are medications that mimic the action of melatonin and are often used to treat sleep disorders (Savage et al., 2022). An expected outcome is the relief of sleep disorders, such as insomnia or circadian rhythm disorders. Additionally, common side effects of melatonin may include dizziness, headache, and fatigue (Savage et al., 2022).
Finally, if a patient presents with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, and the primary issue is believed to be related to serotonin imbalance, medications targeting serotonin receptors (such as SSRIs) may be considered. On the other hand, if the primary concern is related to sleep disorders, especially difficulties falling asleep or regulating the sleep-wake cycle, melatonin or melatonin agonists may be more appropriate.
Angelica Polanco Cabral
Serotonin:
Pharmacologic Action- Distension by intraluminal contents stimulates sensory neurons (intrinsic primary afferent neurons) which trigger an ascending excitatory reflex (leading to contraction) and a descending inhibitory reflex (leading to relaxation) (Staff, 2019).
Drug Class- Serotonin is linked to Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These are a widely used type of antidepressant. They’re mainly prescribed to treat depression, particularly persistent or severe cases, and are often used in combination with talking therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) (Staff, 2019).
Expected Outcomes- Increases serotonin levels in the brain. Regulates mood, appetite, sleep, memory, social behavior, and sexual desire (Staff, 2019).
Side Effects- Sexual dysfunction, headaches, sleep disturbances, weight changes, worsened anxiety, dizziness, gastrointestinal issues, dry mouth, and more.
Norepinephrine:
Pharmacologic Action- acts predominantly on alpha-adrenergic receptors to produce constriction of resistance and capacitance vessels, thereby increasing systemic blood pressure and coronary artery blood flow (Clinic, 2022).
Drug Class- Vasopressor
Expected Outcome- Increases and maintains blood pressure in limited, short-term serious health situations (Clinic, 2022).
Side Effects- Slow or uneven heart rate, blurred vision, nervousness, high blood pressure, tiredness or weakness, blue lips and fingernails, dizziness, and confusion (Clinic, 2022).
Serotonin is considered for the treatment plan of depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and PTSD. Norepinephrine is used is used to increase and maintain blood pressure in limited, short-term situations where low blood pressure is a problem (Clinic, 2022).
