06/17/2026
Most people think serotonin syndrome only happens from taking “too much medication.”
The truth? It can happen from the combination of prescription medications, supplements, and even your genetics.
If you’re taking an SSRI or SNRI and adding supplements like St. John’s wort, saffron, or ashwagandha, your risk may be different than someone else’s. Your body’s ability to process medications is influenced by your pharmacogenomics (PGx), which can affect how quickly medications are metabolized and how they interact.
Symptoms like:
• Agitation or restlessness
• Rapid heart rate
• Excessive sweating
• Tremors or muscle twitching
• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Fever
…should never be ignored, especially after starting or combining new medications or supplements.
As a PGx Pharmacist, I believe the goal isn’t to scare you away from treatment—it’s to help you understand how your genetics, medications, and supplements work together so you can make informed decisions with your healthcare provider.
Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools for preventing avoidable adverse drug reactions.
Share this with someone who takes medication and supplements. They may not realize the combination matters.
This content is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Never stop or change your medications without consulting your healthcare provider.
