What receptor mechanisms may explain dexmedetomidine’s efficacy in serotonin syndrome?
Dexmedetomidine stimulates alpha-2C receptors in the striatum, which decreases serotonin levels. Additionally, alpha-2 receptors located on serotonergic terminal axons may inhibit serotonin release. Lastly, alpha-2A receptor agonism in the prefrontal cortex and locus ceruleus causes sedation and reduced sympathetic tone.
Olugbenga A. Akingbola, Dinesh Singh; Dexmedetomidine to Treat Lisdexamfetamine Overdose and Serotonin Toxidrome in a 6-Year-Old Girl. Am J Crit Care 1 November 2012; 21 (6): 456–459. doi: https://doi.org/10.4037/ajcc2012768
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