Serotonergice

Serotonergice is a rarely used or nonstandard variant of the term serotonergic. In most sources, the adjective serotonergic is used to describe anything relating to serotonin, its receptors, or its signaling.

Serotonergic systems involve neurons that release serotonin and a network of receptors and transporters that respond to or regulate it. Most serotonergic neurons originate in the raphe nuclei of the brainstem and project widely to cortical and subcortical regions. Peripherally, the gut’s enterochromaffin cells produce serotonin, and platelets take up and release it during hemostasis. Serotonin signals through multiple receptor subtypes, grouped as 5-HT1 to 5-HT7, each with distinct signaling mechanisms and physiological roles.

Pharmacologically, the serotonergic system is a major target for medicines and supplements. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) increase synaptic serotonin levels. Other drugs modulate specific 5-HT receptor subtypes or inhibit monoamine oxidase to raise serotonin. Agents used for migraines, such as triptans, are 5-HT1 receptor agonists, while some supplements like 5-HTP are claimed to influence serotonin synthesis. Serotonergic activity must be balanced, as excessive signaling can lead to serotonin syndrome, especially when combining serotonergic drugs.

Clinical relevance spans mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive spectrum conditions, sleep regulation, appetite, and pain processing. Dysfunctions in serotonergic signaling have been implicated in major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, and migraine, among others. Safety considerations include potential adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset, sexual dysfunction, and drug interactions.

See also: serotonergic system, serotonin transporter, 5-HT receptors.