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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 7 of 7. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Justin Fernandez on August 22, 2008, at 17:23:53
Does anyone have any suggestions for increasing GABA and Dopamine together? Thanks in advance.
Posted by dcruik518 on August 24, 2008, at 13:40:53
In reply to GABA and Dopamine, posted by Justin Fernandez on August 22, 2008, at 17:23:53
Nardil will raise brain levels of both GABA and Dopamine.
You might also be interested in Zonisamide, an anticonvulsant that boost serotonin and dopamine levels somewhat. It also causes weight loss, unlike Nardil.
Posted by bleauberry on August 24, 2008, at 19:21:44
In reply to GABA and Dopamine, posted by Justin Fernandez on August 22, 2008, at 17:23:53
The supplement L-Theanine, a unique substance derived from green tea, increases dopamine and gaba.
Posted by Phillipa on August 25, 2008, at 12:22:41
In reply to Re: GABA and Dopamine, posted by bleauberry on August 24, 2008, at 19:21:44
Does green tea calm or stimulate like caffeine? Phillipa
Posted by Justin Fernandez on August 25, 2008, at 15:49:50
In reply to Re: GABA and Dopamine » bleauberry, posted by Phillipa on August 25, 2008, at 12:22:41
Thank you all for your feedback. I am grateful that this discussion board provides a place for individuals to share their experiences with one another in an affirming way.
I have used a couple ADs(SSRIs) in the past, but am inclined to use natural treatments rather than prescriptions because my experience is that they are safer with less potential for side efects. However, I am not completely opposed to using an Rx I just don't have alot of time or resources to trial different meds.
I have used L-Theanine in the past with some success, as well as Lithium Orotate. I am currently using Valerian root as a GABA agonist, but it seems as though tolerance develops rather quickly.
I have difficulty with motivation and concentration on academic and personal tasks. I also struggle with symptoms of social phobia and what appears to be Bipolar Spectrum characterized by mixed states of irritability and fatigue with low mood. I am also prone to addictive/ compulsive behaviors.
Some stimulants improve my concentration and low mood, but often leave me feeling overstimulated. GABA potentiators help to stabilize my mood but many times cause apathy in me. I think my symptoms may be related to an imbalance in my GABA and Dopamine levels. Any thoughts?
Posted by oceancat on September 1, 2008, at 19:35:38
In reply to Re: GABA and Dopamine, posted by Justin Fernandez on August 25, 2008, at 15:49:50
Hi Justin,
You sound kind of like me! I assume you've tried St. John's wort. I found that very helpful after taking the highest dosage recommended (I can't remember what that was) for a month. If you're willing to take a prescription, the first drug I'd recommended would be Lamictal. It helps greatly with irritability and low mood, but I've only taken it in conjunction with an SSRI.
I've tried a number of natural supplements for depression and except for St. John's wort, nothing worked for me, but that's just me. What are you taking now? Some people I hear are getting results with folic acid (Deplin, by prescription), but again added to an antidepressant. Also, SAM-E may be a good option, but I've never been able to afford it!
oceancat
Posted by yxibow on September 3, 2008, at 0:17:40
In reply to Re: GABA and Dopamine, posted by dcruik518 on August 24, 2008, at 13:40:53
> Nardil will raise brain levels of both GABA and Dopamine.
>
> You might also be interested in Zonisamide, an anticonvulsant that boost serotonin and dopamine levels somewhat. It also causes weight loss, unlike Nardil.Zonegran carries significant risks greater than Lamictal -- it should be used cautiously by a doctor.
This is the end of the thread.
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