This is not medical advice, nor is it intended to be. These are also not intended to be formal medical recommendations and you should never abuse medication or use it against its guidelines; you should also ask your doctor or clinician’s advice, etc etc. These are lists of ideas, tips, and tricks for theoretical disaster and prepping scenarios.

  • GoldenQuetzal@lemmy.worldOPMEnglish
    1·
    24 hours ago

    SSRIs

    • If you have a higher dosage but you are able to use a lower one, depending on the medication, you might be able to cut the pill or dose in half.
    • Mexican pharmacies may have SSRIs over the counter.

    Tapering if necessary

    • Check your SSRI’s half-life to see how long you have; sudden discontinuation can trigger severe withdrawal (brain zaps, dizziness, panic attacks, depression).
    • If you must stop without access, taper slowly over weeks by reducing doses in 5mg increments (liquid compounding pharmacies can help).
    • In case of sudden withdrawal, these might help:
      • Increase 5-HTP or Tryptophan Intake
        • 5-HTP: 100 mg 2x daily.
        • Natural sources: Turkey, eggs, cheese, oats, seeds (pumpkin/sunflower), and dark chocolate.
    • Use NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) to Reduce Withdrawal Effects
      • Helps restore glutamate balance disrupted by antidepressant withdrawal.
      • Dose: 600-1200 mg/day.
    • Exercise (Even Light Walking) to Boost Serotonin Naturally
      • 20+ minutes a day helps regulate mood and reduce withdrawal symptoms.
      • Light Therapy (If Seasonal Affective Symptoms Are a Factor)
    • Light therapy - use a 10,000 lux light box for 30 min in the morning.
    • How to Safely Taper Off Drugs video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VY820dpjdq8

    Prescription Alternatives

    Note: these are not substitutes for prescription medication, but they might help.

    • 5-HTP (Precursor to Serotonin) – Helps replenish serotonin levels, similar to an SSRI.
      • Dose: 50-200 mg/day (start low).
    • St. John’s Wort (Natural SSRI Alternative) – Shown in studies to be as effective as some antidepressants, but interacts with many medications.
      • Dose: 300 mg 2-3x daily.
    • Saffron Extract (Natural Serotonin Booster)
      • Studies show it’s as effective as Prozac for mild to moderate depression.
      • Dose: 30 mg/day (crocin + safranal active components).
      • Best Source: Buy standardized saffron extract (not just cooking saffron).
    • Rhodiola Rosea (Adaptogen for Mood & Energy)
      • Improves serotonin & dopamine levels, reduces fatigue & stress.
      • Dose: 200-500 mg/day.
      • Best for: Depression with low energy & fatigue.
    • L-Theanine (Calming, Balances Neurotransmitters)
      • Found in green tea, increases dopamine & GABA, reduces anxiety.
      • Dose: 200-400 mg/day (safe long-term).
    • Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Supports Nerve Regeneration & Mood)
      • Stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), similar to SSRIs.
      • Dose: 500-1500 mg/day.
    • Magnesium Glycinate or L-Threonate (Natural Anti-Depressant)
      • Critical for serotonin production, reduces anxiety & depression.
      • Dose: 400-600 mg/day.
    • Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Brain Health & Mood)
      • Found in fish oil; supports dopamine & serotonin receptors.
      • Dose: 2000 mg/day (high EPA content preferred, ~1000 mg EPA minimum).