Which of the following is an example of a medication that can cause serotonin syndrome?

Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is an excess of serotonin in the brain. This often happens due to the use of certain medications that increase serotonin levels. Triptans, which are commonly prescribed for the treatment of migraines, work by stimulating serotonin receptors. They are considered agonists at specific serotonin receptor sites, which means they can lead to an increase in the availability of serotonin in the synaptic cleft.

When triptans are used in conjunction with other medications that also elevate serotonin levels, such as certain antidepressants (for example, SSRIs or MAOIs), it can result in excessive serotonergic activity, thus contributing to the development of serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include confusion, agitation, rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, and muscle rigidity, among others. This metabolic state necessitates careful management of serotonergic medications to avoid adverse reactions.

The other medications listed do not primarily influence serotonin levels in this manner. For instance, ibuprofen and acetaminophen are analgesics and do not have a mechanism associated with serotonin. Metformin is an antidiabetic medication and also does not affect serotonin levels directly. Therefore, the implication of triptans being associated with serotonin syndrome makes it the