People commonly become addicted to Zoloft whether the medication was prescribed for a specific condition or used for recreation. Stopping the formulation abruptly causes a number of potentially dangerous side effects. A gradual dosage tapering is highly recommended. Even with gradual tapering withdrawal symptoms are likely to occur. A number of supplements can ease the discomfort. However, the effectiveness of products varies from one person to the next.
Fish Oil
Fish or krill oil contains the essential omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. Supplements help the brain cope during the disruption that neurons experience when going through withdrawal. Fish oil supplements can be started before stopping Zoloft. Omega-3 fatty acids have been known to reduce:
• Aggression
• Anxiety
• Brain zaps
• Cognitive problems
• Depression
• General irritability
Glutathione or GSH
Glutathione is an antioxidant normally made in the cells, which helps reduce inflammation and protects against toxins. Though found in abundance in asparagus, supplementation is beneficial when drugs may have stressed the liver.
Melatonin
Many suffer from insomnia during detoxification. However, a lack of sufficient, restful sleep only makes withdrawal symptoms seem worse. Melatonin is necessary for the body to create the neurotransmitter serotonin, which besides inducing sleep is also responsible for mood regulation. Melatonin helps restore the body's natural circadian rhythm that allows the brain to alert us when sleep becomes necessary. OTC Benadryl is also favored by some as the antihistamine causes drowsiness.
Magnesium
Magnesium helps the body de-stress and depletions may cause a host of symptoms that include anxiety. A magnesium supplement helps some by reducing anxiety, depression, insomnia and heart palpitations. The mineral additionally help the body absorb vitamin D.
5-HTP and L-Tryptophan
When the brain no longer receives Zoloft, serotonin levels become imbalanced. Taking 50 to 100 milligrams of 5-HTP or 500 to 1,000 milligrams of L-Tryptophan amino acids on an empty stomach before bedtime encourages the brain to manufacture more of the neurotransmitter.
B-Complex Vitamins
Vitamin B-3 helps the body make tryptophan and vitamin B-6 assists in converting 5-HTP into serotonin. The combination of B vitamins is commonly used in energy drinks for their ability to boost energy. As a result, the complex helps detoxing individuals overcome the generalized fatigue suffered during withdrawal. However, for some, the supplement may produce anxiety or agitation.
Activated Charcoal
After taking a last dose of Zoloft, activated charcoal serves to eliminate residual toxins in the body. Used in many world cultures for thousands of years, the substance absorbs and binds with drugs or poisons in the stomach that may then be flushed out of the system. Take the product once as directed, which is available in powdered, capsule or tablet forms. However, avoid taking other supplements until after the charcoal leaves the body.
