|
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the junctions (synapse) between nerves in the brain |
adhd - Drugs for ADHD
Though it is clear no one really knows how serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) antidepressants work, here is the working hypothesis that guides most physicians. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the junctions (synapse) between nerves in the brai that allow nerve impulses to move from one neuron to the next.
As long as the neurotransmitter is floating around in the synapse, it can continue to stimulate or inhibit the recipient cell. The longer it stays, the stronger its effcts. The shorter it remains, the lesser the effect. To control how long this effect lasts, the body adjusts how long the neurotransmitter remains in the synaptic space. It does this in one of two ways. It may release an enzyme to break down the neurotransmitter or the sending nerve cell will reabsorb the neurotransmitter to store it for later use.
This means that the nervous system can control the effects of neurotransmitters in three ways by adjusting
1. The amount of neurotransmitter released.
2. The rate of absorption of the neurotransmitter.
3. The amount of enzymes released to breakdown the neurotransmitter.
SSRI antidepressants such Proazc, paxil, and Zoloft inhibit the sending cell from reabsorbing the serotonin that is in the synaptic junction. This leaves more serotonin floating around in the synapse to stimulate or inhibit the receiving nerve cells.
Article is in the following categories:

