Posted by Sunnely on February 19, 2003, at 19:44:28
In reply to SSRIs, Sweating and Possible Heat Exhaustion?, posted by IsoM on February 18, 2003, at 15:35:47
Just my own 2 cents.
I believe it is possible that heat-related adverse events (e.g., heat exhaustion, heatstroke) can occur with the use of SSRIs.
Serotonin is a neuromodulator of dopamine. Increased serotonin effect inhibits dopamine action. Dopamine plays a vital role in body-temperature regulation via the hypothalamus. Decreased dopamine activity (e.g., antipsychotic drug effect) increases risk of body temperature dysregulation. This may not be a problem if the individual avoids extreme temperatures. If exposed, the body may assume the environmental temperature, that is, increased risk of hyperthermia when the weather is hot and humid; increased risk of hypothermia during cold winter weather.
Paxil, aside from being the most potent SSRI, also posseses anticholinergic properties, especially in high doses. Blockade of the cholinergic receptors can lead to decreased ability to sweat and potential for heat-related adverse events during hot and humid weather. Therefore, Paxil's dual properties of serotonin and anticholinergic effects further increase risk of hyperthermia during hot and humid weather.
Of course, SSRIs (and other serotonin antidepressants such as Effexor) can also cause sweating. This may lead to dehydration and potential for heat exhaustion especially under hot & humid weather.
It is important to know your area's HEAT INDEX if you are on certain psychotropic meds such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antiparkinsonian drugs. People on psychotropic meds (also high blood pressure meds, diabetic meds, thyroid meds) are at higher risk for developing heat-related adverse events, including the potentially deadly heatstroke.
poster:Sunnely
thread:201568
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030219/msgs/201960.html