SSRIs as a treatment for drug addiction (especially benzos).

[Okiv99]

SSRIs have been shown to promote neurogenesis and bdnf (brain derived neutrophic factor) in the brain (both of these things are increased by exercise which it is so beneficial after quitting drugs). Upregulating neurogenesis is important after addiction as we know because the brain is in a plastic state (almost frozen state ) after addiction and so is rigid and not adjusting to new behavioural patterns well.

Additionally its been shown SSRIs enhance GABAergic transmission in the brain and elevate Gaba levels (this would be beneficial for all recovering addicts) but it is my belief that this may additionally help ex benzo addicts that have damage their GABAergic system with long term use.

Ofcourse we know SSRIS can have bad effects for the short adjustment period but im wondering you guys thoughts on this. Reading into the scientific literature they look very promising and I have been experimenting on myself. I have found my drug cravings have massively reduced, I am getting enjoyment out of normal life much quicker than on my previous quits and I have a sense of well being that I haven't had for years.

 

[specialrelativity]

Which specific SSRI s? Prozac ? Lexapro?

 

[Okiv99]

Which specific SSRI s? Prozac ? Lexapro?

They all have slight nuances. Fluoxetine is the most studied SSRI in terms of neurogenic effects but setraline and paroxetine also show effects. A bunch of others do too but are lesser studied.

Fluvoxamine is shown to have the strongest gabaergic effect followed by paroxetine and setraline.

For this reason if wanting both effects id choose setraline or paroxetine but also remember theirs an adjustment period and each person requires an individual dose for the drug to work. A good doctor will titrate the dose up very slowly and monitor you closely (monthly check ups) at first.

There is also some other nuance in terms of sides people experience but Ive found as long as people start low and up the dose slowly sides are pretty limited apart from during the initial 2 weeks when start or upping the dose.

These changes also take a long time im talking 3-6 months for increases in bdnf and changes in gaba receptor expression.