FDA Advisory Issued Regarding Use of Triptans and SSRI Antidepressants

By Elizabeth Rhein

Published on July 25, 2006

Serotonin syndrome, caused when the body's nervous system is flooded with serotonin, can be triggered when combining triptans and SSRI antidepressants. Triptans, used to treat migraines, include such medications as Imitrex, Imigran, and Zolmitriptan. SSRI antidepressants, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants, include the popular drugs Paxil, Celexa, Prozac, and Zoloft.

The symptoms of serotonin syndrome range from vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea to increased body temperature, rapid heartbeat, and sudden changes in blood pressure. Some people with serotonin syndrome may also experience restlessness, hallucinations, and coordination problems.

Problems caused by combining the two kinds of drugs most often occur when beginning one of the drugs or when changing the dosage level.

Depending on the severity and frequency of migraines, patients taking SSRI antidepressants may feel that the benefits of triptans outweigh the risk of developing serotonin syndrome. If you or a family member are currently taking an SSRI antidepressant and are considering treatment with triptans for migraine headaches, talk to your doctor to determine whether the combination is right for you.

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