Neurally mediated syncope and serotonin reuptake inhibitors

Clin Auton Res. 1995 Oct;5(5):251-5. doi: 10.1007/BF01818888.

Abstract

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5HT) is a neurotransmitter which appears to play a prominent role in central regulation of heart rate and blood pressure. Recent evidence suggests that the activation of cerebral serotonin receptors results in a depressor effect principally through sympatho-inhibition. Several common clinical disorders resulting in hypotension leading to syncope are neurally mediated syncope, carotid sinus hypersensitivity and orthostatic hypotension, each of which may involve a serotonergic component. This brief review provides a summary of serotonergic blood pressure regulation, as well as the initial experience with the clinical effects of the serotonin reuptake inhibitors in the therapy of the aforementioned disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Hypotension / drug therapy
  • Hypotension / physiopathology
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Syncope / drug therapy*
  • Syncope / physiopathology

Substances

  • Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors