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).