Encouragement for w/d's

[Flowergirl43]

I have read so many posts from people in w/d and wanted to share again to try to help. I have been going through w/d from opiates and it really is hard but the amino acids and vitamins have helped. I went to the health store and bought the L-tyrosine 500mg and the L-Glutamine 500mg and today I had a lot more energy and the deep depression must be better because I laughed and smiled:)  Twice a day I take those and the SAM-e, calcium, super b complex, 5-HTP, magnesuim and a multi vitamin.  Drink lots of water and juices.  The crying bouts have stopped as well as the leg cramps. No one knows except this forum about my addiction so I spend a lot of time reading on here. Sending out hugs to everyone struggling.

[tgtiffany]

So glad that things are getting better for you!!!  And you SMILED!! :)  YAY!  If you don't know me from my posts, smiling is big for me :)  You doing great :)

[MEB2011]

I have been researching this now for a couple months and it is a bit confusing.  I am reading a book called the EDGE or something like that by Bravermman.   He feels there are four predominant neurotransmitters associated with four tempermants (like the 4 from Greek medicine) and that amino acids are one important treatment for adjusting these for optimal brain health, including overcoming addictions.    These are Seratonin, GABA, Dopamine and Acetycholine.

From what I have learned the important amino acids are DL Phenylanine (not L phenylalanine) precursor for dopamine and also blocks the substance that destroys endorphins/enkephalins (natural opiates).  L phenylalanine breaks down into tyrosine, precursor for dopamine.    Dopamine is the energy neurotransmitter and involved in the reward system underlying addiction. Cocaine and amphetamine act like dopamine substitutes and become depleted during use of those stimulants.

Glutamine is another recommended, associated with GABA (which can be taken on its own).   These are related to stress reduction and relaxation.  It is supposed to help with alcohol addiction.

5-HTP (or its precursor tryptophan) breaks down into Seratonin associated with sleep.  

There are several other substances (b and c vitamins, chromium) that are needed to assist the processes.  Also some herbs like Rhodea R.

Acetyl Cysteine and a few others have also been mentioned.  I take NAC for my liver because it converts to gluathione the predominant anti oxidant in the liver.

The amino acids are best on empty stomach.  I am not so sure about correct dosages, but there are some commonly suggested dosages so one can start there.  Usually about 500 mgs up to a couple grams.

So, I am trying the following regimen:

Take 1 gram dl phenylanine with water, and also the vitamins, chromium and Rhodea R..  I wait an hour and take 1 gram of L-tyrosine, then I eat breakfast after about 20 minutes.

Afternoon I take NAC (500 mg) and Glutamine.

Evening (an hour or so before sleep I take 200 mgs of 5 HTP and 500 mgs of Gaba).

I woudl be interested in hearing any feedback on this regimen.  It is  meant to be an all-round treatment to reduce cravings, overeating etc.    I have done it for a few days now and it seems to be  improving mood.So far I am feeling more energy and sleep really quickly.  I have to wait to note any behaviour changes, but I am hopeful and will stick with this and give it a chance.  Best of luck to all, Mark

[Flowergirl43]

I wish I knew if it was the L-tryosine or L-Glutamine that gave me energy and made me feel 110% better.  I took both and they helped more than all the vitamins that I have taken the last week.  Bless your heart having to endure so many pills.  The amino acids really do make a difference.  Maybe someone on here would know one more you could take in the amino acid family. I did see a amino acid complex at the health store.  Hugs:))))))

[jerrip]

I just can't take another pill .....I already take 18 different kinds of RX every day.  I also take multivitamin.Bcompley,omega 3-6-12 and melatonin....If I took just ONE more what would you reccommend?   Thanks  Jerri

[dominosarah]

Good for you for getting the amino acids and all.  They really do help dont they.  Keep going forward as it will keep getting better.  Just keep telling yourself you can do this!!!!  Stay strong             sara