Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the body that is used to initiate feelings of happiness or optimism in the brain. It can also help with eating, sleeping and digesting while helping the body make healthy habits. Dopamine is associated with feelings of motivation, reward and productivity. Working in tandem, both prescriptions stimulate neurotransmitters to help regulate your mood.
Reduced levels of serotonin can cause depression. Lower dopamine levels may not directly cause but can contribute to depression.
Buprenorphine is a prescription drug used for medication-assisted treatment for opioid use.
Buprenorphine and Addiction
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that activates the opioid receptors and makes the brain believe it received the opioid. As opioid receptors are activated, the brain releases weaker dopamine levels to balance the cravings that may exist in the body, making the user feel stable rather than euphoric.
SSRIs and Depression
To increase serotonin levels in those suffering from depression, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medications are used as antidepressants. These prescriptions block the brain from taking as much serotonin at once, allowing for an increase in production. This interaction helps to increase overall mood, thus treating depression.
Buprenorphine and Serotonin Syndrome
Depression and substance use can influence each other in an individual. Using opioids tends to increase feelings of loneliness, sadness and hopelessness, symptoms that are often associated with depression. For this reason, someone might already be on an SSRI before starting treatment for opioid addiction.
In some cases, once someone taking SSRIs receives the first dose of buprenorphine, both medications boost the production of similar neurotransmitters, leading to high serotonin levels. This amount can be dangerous for the body because it can lead to serotonin syndrome.
Serotonin syndrome can occur when too much serotonin builds up in the body. Its risk is the highest when a dose of medication is increased, a new drug is started or two medications containing serotonin are taken at once. While all opioid prescriptions can trigger serotonin syndrome, buprenorphine’s chemical makeup, combined with other serotonin-containing medications, can be a stronger catalyst. Some symptoms to look for include:
- Ankle clonus
- Agitation or restlessness
- Confusion
- Rapid heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Muscle rigidity
Contact MedMark
Our trained staff at MedMark recognize that treatment for opioid addiction can come with challenges. We can help assist you or your loved one on your journey toward health in our treatment centers across the United States. Contact us today to learn more or find a location near you.
