Better Together

Quitting SSRI medicaton

Updated on June 17, 2018 in Anxiety & Depression
9 on June 8, 2018

Any advice on how to lessen the impact of discontinuation syndrome?  I’m having a few issues with brain “zaps” even though I tapered off medication very slowly and under medical supervision..  I’m trying fish oil and 5-HTP supplements.

Any other advice?

 

 

 

 
  • Liked by
Reply
8 on June 8, 2018

Thanks very much for your question as this an important topic. When you are discontinuing medication, it is helpful to support your major detoxification organs through this process: the liver, digestive tract, and skin. When these are functioning optimally, they can more efficiently, and effectively process the removal of the medication. Ways to support these organ include:

  1. The good old dark leafy-green (chlorophyll-rich) vegetables such as spinach and chard, as well as cruciferous veggies like broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, arugula, collard greens, cauliflower, and mustard greens have strong liver supporting nutrients. If these aren’t your favorite, consider a concentrated green supplement (powder you put in water) such as Green Vibrance or Amazing Grass Green Superfood.
  2. Regular Sweating through exercise and dry sauna use supports detoxification effects of the skin.
  3. Plenty of filtered water as well as liver supportive herbal teas such as licorice, milk thistle, dandelion root, and green tea. 
  4. Fiber, water, exercise are paramount importance to make sure you have regular bowel elimination (a minimum of once per day). Consider fiber support such as organic psyllium husk if necessary.
  5. Eat a whole foods diet (organic as much as possible to avoid additional toxicants) using the recipes and principles encouraged here, avoiding processed foods as much as possible. Include garlic, ginger, and turmeric spices in your cooking as well.
  6. Get adequate sleep and try to keep to a regular sleep routine.
  7. Make time for fun and relaxation to manage stress.

I realize this is a long list, so focus on the top three that might need additional attention in your life. Any additional support you offer your body at this time is certainly beneficial. Best to you!

on June 9, 2018

Thank you Coach Zoe-  I wish more people were aware of the problems that these anti depressant types of medications can cause.  I personally was told that some people can’t produce enough serotonin in their body -ever !   Now I am implementing as many strategies as possible to take care of myself naturally.

 

 

on June 10, 2018

Brennie, what are “brain zaps”?  

on June 10, 2018

hi Sally 4th-the brain zaps are sort of electric shock like sensations in the head that are caused by changes to neurotransmitters when coming off serotonin medication.

Not fun- but temporary, expected to last up to a month or so.

Trying to keep distracted in the meantime.

on June 11, 2018

Hmm.  I get a sensation like that once in awhile for about the last 7 years, but have not had an SSRI in more than 30 years.  I hope yours are brief, like mine, and that you will feel better soon, Brennie.

on June 11, 2018

 

Thank you!   Hope you are doing well too. I am going through this discontinuation because I believe there is a link between the SSRI’s and dementia.  I am already at risk for this since my Mother suffered from Alzheimers disease so  I am strongly motivated to get them out of my system. 

 

on June 15, 2018

I had not heard that before.  It’s good fo everyone to know that.  Thanks!

on June 15, 2018

Brennie, have you read or listened online to Dr. Dale Bredesen?  If not, you can find his website at drbredesen.com.  His protocol is the best to prevent or, in some cases reverse, Alzheimer’s.  We are all afraid of dementia!

on June 17, 2018

I will definitely look up that website – the more information the better, thanks!

Show more replies
  • Liked by
Reply
Cancel
Loading more replies