Serotonin neurons and GCS

Serotonin neurons and glucocorticosteroids

A relationship between mental status changes and corticosteroid use has long been established. However, recent research has shown that the effect of corticosteroids may be the result of an alteration in the action potential within serotonin neurons. During serotonin neurotransmission the action potential is lowered.

This effect is more pronounced with the addition of a corticosteroid. It was also shown that corticosteroids themselves enhanced serotonin neurotransmission. Thus providing further evidence of the steroid and mood disturbances connection.

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Corticosteroids will increase presynaptic release of serotonin.