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	Wellness Wheel Nutrition & Health States Tables Drug-Nutrient Interactions & Depletions Table Supplement Dosage Chart Herbal Dosage Chart

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Antidepressants

Antidepressants increase the levels of one or more biogenic amines (norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine) in the central nervous system. The clinical improvement from antidepressant therapy generally takes 3 - 6 weeks.

Common drugs:

Cymbalta, Effexor, Lexapro Elavil, Norpramin, Paxil, Prozac, Remeron, Wellbutrin, Zoloft and more

Common health state:

Depression ( or Mood disorder) , PMS

Currently, there are no supplements recommended when taking a drug that falls into this category.

Fish Oil

Fish oil supplementation has been reported as an effective adjunct therapy to antidepressants in patients who have shown poor responses to antidepressant treatment. Consider fish oil supplementation for added benefit.

Folic Acid

Folic acid supplementation has been reported to increase the effectiveness of SSRIs in patients who have shown poor responses to antidepressants. Consider supplementing with folic acid in some patients taking antidepressants.

Ginkgo Biloba

Consider supplementing with Ginkgo in patients suffering antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. Some (but not all) studies have suggested that ginkgo may help diminish sexual dysfunction associated with antidepressant therapy.

S-adenosyl-L-methionine

Consider supplementing with SAM-e in some patients taking antidepressants. In addition to its independant role in mood enhancement, research suggests SAM-e may augment the actions of antidepressant drugs in patients who are refactory to, or do not get full remission from their antidepressants.

Vitamin B12

In combination, the B-Vitamins, including B-6 and B-12, are important for normal neurotransmitter metabolism.

Vitamin B6

In combination, the B-Vitamins, including B-6 and B-12, are important for normal neurotransmitter metabolism.

Vitamin D

There are a few studies that suggest that vitamin D deficiency may be a factor in seasonal affective disorder, and low mood.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo in combination with drugs that lower seizure threshold such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) might increase risk of seizures. Caution patients about risks if taking bupropion (Wellbutrin)

Melatonin

Melatonin may interact with medications that inhibit serotonin reuptake including a number of antidepressant medications (SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, venlafaxine, etc). Use melatonin with caution if taking antidepressants.

St. John’s Wort

St John’s wort in combination with other drugs that increase CNS serotonin levels (SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, venlafaxine, MAO inhibitors) can increase the risk of serotonergic side effects, including serotonin syndrome. Caution patients about the increased potential for serotonergic side effects if taking this supplement with antidepressant medications.

Ginseng

Concomitant use of ginseng with phenelzine has been associated with insomnia, headache, tremors and hypomania. Avoid with MAO inhibitors.

The dietary supplement information contained on this site has been compiled from published sources thought to be reliable, but it cannot be guaranteed. Efforts have been made to assure this information is accurate and current. However, some of this information may be purported or outdated due to ongoing research or discoveries. The authors, editors and publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences from applications of the information in this site and make no warranty, expressed or implied, with respect to the contents herein.