|  | Conditions Treatments | Neurological Disorders

Serotonin Reuptake Medications for Parkinson's Disease

A progressive disease, Parkinson's disease slowly destroys or impairs the brain cells responsible for making the neurotransmitter dopamine. Unfortunately, Parkinson's disease also affects other neurotransmitters like serotonin, a neurotransmitter than influences mood.

  1. About Serotonin

    • Low levels of circulating serotonin may lead to depression, anxiety and panic disorders in patients with Parkinson's disease, explains the Parkinson's Disease Foundation (PDF).

    Significance

    • Twenty percent of people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease develop depression before developing motor symptoms like tremors, stiff muscles and impaired balance, says the University of Chicago Medical Center. During the course of Parkinson's disease, at least 40 percent of patients will develop clinical depression, adds the PDF.

    Function

    • Serotonin reuptake medications encourage the brain to use the serotonin available in the brain by preventing brain cells from reabsorbing the neurotransmitter.

    Types

    • Physicians usually prescribe a class of serotonin reuptake medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which include paroxetine (Paxil), citalopram (Celexa) and fluoxetine (Prozac), explains the University of Chicago Medical Center.

    Side Effects

    • SSRIs may induce side effects like nausea, headaches, insomnia, rash and agitation, according to the Mayo Clinic. Patients with Parkinson's disease may also continue to experience fatigue and apathy while taking SSRIs, says the Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center.

Neurological Disorders - Related Articles