Many nootropics are renowned for their reported ability to uplift mood while eliminating stress and anxiety.
So then, it’s no wonder that many struggling with low spirits consider adding them to their routine – after all, if they can act as a pick-me-up, then it’s a no-brainer, right?
Well, while that might be true, it’s important for those already taking prescription medications – such as antidepressants – to be careful. Mixing nootropics and antidepressants can be okay, but sometimes it can result in unintended consequences.
In this guide, we’ll explore the potential interactions between the two, and the precautions you should take before doing so.
Please Note: It’s always important to consult with your doctor before taking nootropics alongside existing medications.
Understanding Nootropics and Antidepressants
While both nootropics and antidepressants are intended to have similar effects on our well-being and mood, there are some key differences that distinguish the two.
Nootropics – Classed as supplements, these amino acids, vitamins, and herbs are designed to give your brain a boost. While they might be considered cognitive enhancers, nootropics aren’t solely for increasing your memory and learning. Many help the brain in other ways, easing anxieties and improving mood.
Antidepressants – These medications are designed to regulate hormones and neurotransmitters in order to alleviate the symptoms of depression. Antidepressants work in a number of ways, but they typically work by raising levels of serotonin (aka the “happy hormone”) in the brain.
So, while both can influence our mood – and our serotonin levels – one is a supplement while the other is a medication. It’s important to remember that taking both isn’t a surefire way to receive more benefits and could actually be problematic.
Can Antidepressants Be Mixed with Nootropics?
Both nootropics and antidepressants are bioactive substances that can exert different effects on the brain and our body. This means that they can also interact with each other in positive and negative ways.
Nootropics and antidepressants can potentially interact with each other in three different ways:
Duplication – This is where two substances produce similar effects, which can lead to the impact being too strong, leading to pronounced side effects.
Opposition – When two substances work in opposing ways, they can cancel each other out, negating any effects.
Alteration – This is where one substance alters the way another is handled or processed by the body, which can lead to active levels in your system becoming too low or high.
Any of these three outcomes is not ideal for antidepressant users. Duplication and alteration can be dangerous, while opposition can render your antidepressants ineffective.
Some nootropics won’t have any interactions with antidepressants, but it’s important to be aware of potential bad combinations so you can stay safe.
Understanding Which Nootropics Should Not Be Mixed with Antidepressants
Knowing which nootropics to avoid depends on the kind of antidepressant you’re taking. They each work on the brain in different ways, so this means
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
If you’ve been prescribed antidepressants, chances are you’re taking an SSRI. These are the most common form of antidepressants in the world, preferred as they cause fewer side effects and present a lower risk of overdose.
Examples of SSRIs include sertraline, fluoxetine, and citalopram. These drugs work by inhibiting the absorption of serotonin, increasing the active levels in your brain.
When you’re taking SSRIs, it’s really important that you don’t take any other medications or supplements that could further raise your serotonin levels, such as St John’s Wort.
When your serotonin gets too high, you can develop serotonin syndrome. This can result in mild symptoms like shivering and diarrhoea, as well as severe side effects like seizures and fever.
It’s best to avoid any nootropics that could influence your mood when taking SSRIs. If you still want to take nootropics to boost your mood, only take supplements that interact with cortisol, not serotonin.
Please Note: Always consult your doctor before adding any nootropic to your daily routine.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
While SSRIs only impact your serotonin levels, SNRIs also raise your norepinephrine levels. These antidepressants are often used to treat those suffering from depression and anxiety.
Common examples of SNRIs include duloxetine, desvenlafine, and venlafaxine.
Just like SSRIs, it’s crucial that you don’t mix these antidepressants with any nootropics that could further raise your serotonin levels. Otherwise, you run the risk of serotonin sickness and its associated side effects.
If you do use nootropics with SNRIs, avoid taking any nootropics that can influence your mood. Instead, stick to ones that can help boost your energy or sharpen your focus.
Please Note: Always consult your doctor before adding any nootropic to your daily routine.
Atypical Antidepressants
A diverse class of drugs, atypical antidepressants do not all function in the same way. The only thing that they have in common is that they don’t operate in the same manner as traditional antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs.
Atypical antidepressants can act on a variety of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.
Common examples of atypical antidepressants include trazodone, bupropion, and nefazodone.
Because of the unique way they function, it’s essential that you consult your doctor before taking any nootropic alongside an atypical antidepressant. There’s a good chance you’ll be able to mix the two without issue, but you’ll need to get confirmation from a doctor.
Please Note: Always consult your doctor before adding any nootropic to your daily routine.
Adding Nootropics to Your Routine
If you’re struggling with depression, there are a lot of reasons you might want to consider incorporating nootropics into your everyday routine. That being said, anyone who is on a course of antidepressants must do so with caution.
It’s also crucial to remember that nootropics are supplements and are not intended to treat or cure any health condition.
So – what steps should you take before taking nootropics?
Research
Be sure to do your homework before pursuing a nootropic. Consider each of the areas you feel you could do with a boost in, and find a supplement that best suits your needs.
Do you want to feel less anxious? Reduce feelings of stress? Get into a healthier sleep cycle?
Certain nootropics are designed to cater to specific needs, while others can assist with a wider range. Carefully select your nootropic before going ahead, as you don’t want to spend time getting the go-ahead to add it to your routine only to change your mind later on.
Talk to Your Doctor
This is the most important step. No matter what nootropic you pick – or how safe you think it might be – it’s vital that you get the proper approval from a certified medical professional before consuming it.
As we’ve covered, nootropics could have a range of unexpected interactions with your antidepressant medication, potentially producing some nasty side effects.
Taking nootropics alongside your antidepressants isn’t a bad idea, but it must be done with the full guidance of your doctor. They can let you know whether it’s safe to take a particular nootropic and advise on dosage.
Take the Proper Dose
Each of our Fitimins nootropics comes with a recommended dosage – and for good reason! Our capsules have been made to deliver an effective dosage, so don’t attempt to increase the effects by upping your dose.
Taking more than advised can cause you to have a higher concentration than recommended in your system. This is usually harmless, but it could impact your metabolisation of your antidepressants, heightening side effects.
Don’t overdo it; follow the instructions provided, and give the nootropics the time they need.
Monitor for Side Effects
When you start taking your nootropics, keep a log noting any changes or effects you experience.
You may feel less anxious and more energised. On the other hand, you may notice that you’ve become increasingly drowsy, etc.
If you do begin to experience any adverse side effects, stop taking the nootropic right away and seek the advice of your healthcare provider immediately.
Use Quality Supplements
Another key point is only to take products you can trust – this eliminates the chance you’ll take something unexpected which could interfere with your medication.
All of our supplements are manufactured in the UK to the highest GMP standards, ensuring a high-quality product that delivers the best possible results.
Each of our nootropics is made with complete transparency, and the ingredients can be seen listed with each product.
Start the next leg of your wellness journey with Fitimins today!