Chronic citalopram administration causes a sustained suppression of serotonin synthesis in the mouse forebrain.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Serotonin (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter with important roles in the regulation of neurobehavioral processes, particularly those regulating affect in humans. Drugs that potentiate serotonergic neurotransmission by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin (SSRIs) are widely used for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Although the regulation of serotonin synthesis may be an factor in SSRI efficacy, the effect of chronic SSRI administration on 5-HT synthesis is not well understood. Here, we describe effects of chronic administration of the SSRI citalopram (CIT) on 5-HT synthesis and content in the mouse forebrain.

Methodology/principal findings

Citalopram was administered continuously to adult male C57BL/6J mice via osmotic minipump for 2 days, 14 days or

SUBMITTER: Honig G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2728775 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature