Posted by linkadge on June 28, 2007, at 13:24:32
In reply to Re: problems after quitting SSRI's, posted by chiron on June 28, 2007, at 6:49:53
Thats the thing, I have had no problems with benzo's. I've taken benzos for months and been able to ween myself off with little or no lasting consequences.
SSRI's use on the other hand, has left me permanantly weird. Its like I am not depressed, yet everything that interested me while on SSRI's no longer interests me. I have a hard time finding pleasure in anything.
I was reading some articles that suggest that, in response to SSRI exposure, the brain starts to produced more serotonin transporter to take away the serotonin (much in the same manner that the brain produces more DAT in response to cocaine exposure). Well, serotonin exerts pleasurable effects in certain brain regions, infact cocaine's principle effect is by inhibiting the serotonin transporter. (cocaine has stronger effect on the serotonin transporter than on the dopamine transporter).
Some mice studies show that the serotonin transporter upregulation can persist long after SSRI's are discontinued.
Its funny, because I can periodically take test doses of SSRI's, and I will actually feel better.
One of the effects that plagues me the most (sorry for the graphic detail) is this:
Even though SSRI's gave me sexual problems (ejaculation etc), they in some ways enhanced the sexual experience.
Off SSRI's, I have very little interest. When I "imagine" being with somebody, I can't hold the though long enough in my head, without a competing thought telling me that it will never be. Hence, I usually give up.
Anyhow, if I take a test dose of SSRI, I can "fanticize" longer, holding that "possability" in my head. Its like I am able to believe in things (which may never be) for longer.
SSRI withdrawl has left me perminantly pessimistic. The glass is always half empty to the point of unrealistic pessimism.
More fear, more paranoia, definately less trusting. The list goes on.
Again, most of which are relived by a single test dose of an SSRI.
Anyhow, thats my take.
There more to it, but I won't bore you anymore.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:766128
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20070622/msgs/766438.html