Introduction to Zoloft (sertraline)
Zoloft, generic sertraline, is an antidepressant drug in the SSRI class. SSRI means selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. The FDA acknowledges that the mechanics of how SSRIs work are not understood, but it is theorized that by artificially prolonging the activation of serotonin molecules, this boosts mood and therefore SSRIs are called “antidepressants.” The “conventional “wisdom” has drilled into the general population that if you are depressed, you have a “chemical imbalance” and that SSRIs are the answer. This simplistic description of serotonin-based drugs needs further understanding.
Research published in the 2022 British Medical Journal concluded that 85% of people who take antidepressants do not benefit, beyond placebo-effect levels. In fact, large long-term studies in the 2022 Journal of Molecular Psychiatry reviewed the “chemical imbalance” theory and found no association between depression and low levels of serotonin concentration.5,6,7
Let’s dig in a bit further.
Understanding Serotonin
Serotonin is a a type of chemical naturally produced by the body. While serotonin has been popularized by drug advertising campaigns as a “brain chemical,” it is produced mostly in the intestines and distributed to the rest of the body from there.
Serotonin plays many physiologic roles in the human body,2-4 including but not limited to these:
- Control of the pupils and connecting muscles around the eyes
- Regulating blood flow to and from the heart, cellular repair of the 60,000 miles of blood vessels that make up the body’s circulatory system
- Endocrine system regulator (insulin, glucose, lipids, pancreatic secretions, growth and other metabolic hormones.)
- Bowel motility, bladder control
- Sexual organ function
The vast range of roles of serotonin are still being discovered and studied. The assumed function of serotonin as a mood elevator has not been proven, and the mechanics of how serotonergic drugs affect the human physiology, remain largely not understood.
Managing Zoloft Withdrawal — Spotlight on Neuroplasticity
SSRIs spend available serotonin, and do not create it. Taking a drug like Zoloft over a long period of time introduces changes due to the neuroplasticity of cells, altering their transmission & messaging. These intricate pathways in the body and in the brain begin to change and adapt in the presence of disruptors, blockages, and injury. Think of a river that bends around rocks in its path, or a glacier that leaves a valley behind. Think of a river of Zoloft coursing through the body. Suddenly stopping can severely shock the body and the result is what is called Zoloft withdrawal symptoms.
Zoloft withdrawal symptoms can be as varied as one can imagine, but the common ones are listed above. Looking at the mechanics of the situation then, one can see that the approach to tapering Zoloft should be gentle and gradual. Incremental dosage reductions will tend to lessen the severity of the reactions.
In addition, alternatives to Zoloft can help ease the repairing of systems so they can reintegrate and begin functioning normally once again.
Zoloft Alternatives Can Help in Zoloft Withdrawal
Since taking SSRIs long-term spends available serotonin, without replenishing this natural chemical, these drugs are associated with a deficiency in serotonin. Thus, actions taken to replenish this (and other) neurotransmitters may help.
But again, the transition must be done slowly. Here is an example: an amino acid, L-tryptophan, is a precursor to serotonin production in the body. Therefore L-tryptophan is a workable Zoloft alternative that can be introduced gradually, at the same time as Zoloft is being gradually tapered down.
Restoring neurotransmitter health is only one part of the puzzle. Many factors can come into play, such as restoring a healthy microbiome, correcting nutritional deficiencies, addressing life challenges, and many others that are unique to each person. Please once again note the transition to come off Zoloft must be gradual to be safe and effective.
Some examples of Zoloft alternative treatments can include:
A diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, clean sources of proteins provides the building blocks for creating neurochemicals and hormones needed for human health.- Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds that may help reduce or eliminate lingering symptoms 9,10
- B vitamins, magnesium, 5-HTP, and other nutritional supplements are available that may be needed for supporting healthy neurotransmitter and hormone functions 11,12
- Clear out accumulations of toxins that disrupt cellular messaging and block nutrient absorption 13
- Get tested for and correct nutritional deficiencies that may be at the root of some original symptoms — this is at the heart of orthomolecular medicine
- Daily exercise, proven to reverse mental health symptoms like depression 14
- CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) can be particularly helpful during withdrawal.15
Find out More about Zoloft Withdrawal at Alternative to Meds Center
Inpatient Zoloft withdrawal programs at Alternative to Meds Center are uniquely designed for each individual’s needs, sensitivities, and profile, starting with a comprehensive battery of lab testing.
We have drawn on many clinical disciplines including Orthomolecular Medicine, Environmental Medicine, CBT and other forms of psychological counseling, trainer-led exercise programs and classes including yoga, and Qigong. Additionally, we offer a wide range of comfort therapies such as acupuncture and therapeutic massage. These and other alternative treatments all provide effective strategies for use during Zoloft withdrawal, so our clients can achieve drug-free mental clarity, energy, and a positive outlook on the future.
In addition to the methods outlined above, the center offers an exceptional range of treatments and therapies such as sauna therapy, Equine therapy, cold-plunge therapy, sound healing, nebulized glutathione, IV + NAD therapy, and many more. You can find out more details about these on our services overview pages.
You are invited to call us for more information for yourself or your loved one, and find out if Alternative to Meds Center’s Zoloft withdrawal program can present you with the strategies and results you have been searching for.
Common Zoloft withdrawal symptoms (“FINISH”) may include:
