SSRI and Glyconutrients

People searching for a holistic approach to personal wellness often research various forms of supplements and medications to meet their needs. Glyconutrients are believed by many to play a key role in improving the body's ability to function. This can help not only the physical well being but the mental state as well. SSRI medications are becoming more prevalent as a treatment for mental health. Unlike glyconutrients which can be taken as a nutritional supplement, There are some significant concerns with these SSRI treatments if taken for long periods of time.

Symptoms and Duration

After the SSRI medications have done their job, physicians will typically begin a taper off program. Within just a few days of starting the taper-off regimen, patients often experience flu like symptoms that include headaches, diarrhea, upset stomach, vomiting, chills, fatigue and dizziness. In addition, they may have a very hard time falling asleep, encounter vivid dreams and during the day even the little things cause friction and agitation. Another common effect is difficulty concentrating.

These are some of the symptoms that can accompany the reduction and elimination of SSRI antidepressants. In fact, some patients even report depersonalization or thoughts of suicide. The medical and psychiatric fields even have a name for such symptoms: SSRI Discontinuation Syndrome. It can last anywhere from one to seven weeks, and with varying levels of intensity. This means it is critical that patients work closely with a doctor anytime dosages of SSRI medication change.

Reason for Symptoms

The reasons behind the phenomena are well documented; in short, some SSRI medications have a very short half-life. This means they do not produce the proper chemical byproducts, known as metabolites, which help medication stay in the body for an extended period of time. As a result, the SSRIs go in, last a number of hours, and come out again.

Some SSRIs are long-acting, but these are in the minority. The most recognizable of this group is Prozac. More predominantly, the short-acting variety includes Paxil, Luvox, Effexor and Zoloft. When dosages for these medications are reduced or discontinued there is something of a boomerang effect called the anticholingeric rebound. This is an interruption in your body's processing of a key neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.

The Right Action

Having some idea of how to deal with these issues before they occur is critical. Sharing these experiences with a Doctor until a comfort level is reached that the right form of action is being taken. Simply stay committed to communicating all the way until at a minimum some middle ground is achieved. A doctor can never receive too much information.

There are a number of ways to soften the effects of Discontinuation Syndrome and a doctor is equipped to assist with such a need as SSRI medications are ceased. Unlike glyconutrients, SSRI medications are not meant to be a permanent part of daily life. Proper planning and research will insure these medicines restore a balance and help patients return to normal.