SSRIs in withdrawal

Has anyone used an SSRI during the withdrawal period?  If yes, what? and for how long?  

[IBKleen]

In case you didn't see the other post:

I have not heard of anyone using SSRI's to help with withdrawal. I would imagine they would be helpful after the withdrawal to replace the serotonin iost by drug use. However, I stronger suggest that you discuss this with your PCP.

[TimH2]

Not sure what SSRI is.

[im-done]

Zoloft, Celexa, Lexapro

[Marce4]

Selective Serotonin reuptake inhibitors-antidepressants.  I did start thme prior to w/d! Was on Effexor and then that became a non-formulary drug and was very expensive so  changed to Celexa 40mg daily.  It did absolutely for me through w/d but it definately helped with the depression afterwards. It is not a cure-all but it did help me a bit!  Others will tell you to take AminoAcids and they swear by them.  It's good to research. Hope this helps.

[TimH2]

Thanks for the info!!!

[anotherfinemess]

SSRI's don't replace serotonin--  they inhibit free  serotonin from being taken up-- and therefore leave it in the bloodstream to be utilized (producing feeling of well-being).  Opiate use depletes your serotonin levels (down-regulates the receptors), so there is less and less being produced.  Theoretically, an SSRI could help at this time, because it prevents what little serotonin you're producing  to be resorbed, and therefore available.  The problem is that SSRI's take 4-6 wks to kick in.

[FLaddict]

you would be better off taking 5HTP which actually makes more serotonin... SSRI's do not make more, pain pills deplete serotonin levels so by taking a SSRI with your levels already low it will just recycle the small amount you have not replace what was taken by the pain pills.

[im-done]

I have 5HTP here in the house.  What has been your experience with it?

[FLaddict]

I took it for a few months when i quit pills help me alot.. the first week i took 50mgs 3x per day then uped it to 100mgs 3x per day

[im-done]

thanks, I will start that today.  Do you take it with or without food?