Effects of COVID-19 on Serotonin and Dopamine Levels: A Review Study

Serotonin and dopamine are two main neurotransmitters in human body that play an important role in regulating many activities in the body. Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 may affect the levels and metabolism of these neurotransmitters in various ways. Therefore, the present study reviews the different mechanisms of the effect of COVID-19 on serotonin and dopamine levels and the complications caused by these changes.

In this review study, a search was condcucted in Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases to find related articles using the following keywords: “COVID-19”, “SARSCoV- 2”, “serotonin” and “dopamine”.

COVID-19 can alter the serotonin and dopamine levels through various mechanisms, such as reducing the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, reducing the level of amino acids, increasing the level of inflammatory cytokines, reducing the level of vitamins, and binding to monoamine oxidase enzymes. The changes in the level of these neurotransmitters can play an important role in causingsome COVID-19 related complications, such as gastrointestinal problems (diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting), mental disorders (anxiety, depression, and delirium), and increased inflammation. The use of some drugs that modulate serotonin and dopamine levels can be effective in improving some of the COVID-19 complications.

Some of the complications of COVID-19 may be caused or exacerbated by changes in the levels of serotonin and dopamine. More studies are needed to determine the relationship between COVID-19 and these neurotransmitters.