Summary
Chris Masterjohn presents a novel framework for understanding SSRI withdrawal symptoms through the lens of mitochondrial dysfunction. He argues that the discontinuation syndrome experienced by many patients can be better explained by changes in mitochondrial energy production rather than simple neurotransmitter rebalancing.
Key Points
- SSRI withdrawal symptoms may be driven by mitochondrial dysfunction
- SSRIs affect mitochondrial electron transport chain function
- Withdrawal creates an energy deficit in neurons dependent on SSRI-altered metabolism
- Nutritional support for mitochondria may help manage withdrawal symptoms
- This framework suggests new approaches to tapering strategies
Key Moments
That increases the serotonin and it helps coordinate the distribution of oxygen to the brain
That increases the serotonin and it helps coordinate the distribution of oxygen to the brain. But serotonin does other things, both in the brain and throughout the entire rest of the body, that help...
"That increases the serotonin and it helps coordinate the distribution of oxygen to the brain. But serotonin does other things, both in the brain and throughout the entire rest of the body, that help meet energy demands during relative hypoxia. And this is that it goes into the cell through the serotonin transporter. It then acts on the outside of the mitochondria and goes into the mitochondria, gets turned into melatonin,"
We can also say that creatine is an excellent mitochondrial medicine
We can also say that creatine is an excellent mitochondrial medicine. Although creatine is primarily acting outside the mitochondria, what it's doing is it is acting as the mitochondria's power grid.
"We can also say that creatine is an excellent mitochondrial medicine. Although creatine is primarily acting outside the mitochondria, what it's doing is it is acting as the mitochondria's power grid. The mitochondrial power plant is the respiratory chain, which is what mitome is testing. And that delivers energy through the mitochondrial power grid, which is creatine, through the rest of the cell. And so..."
and just titrate up very slowly, just in the way you would want to taper off SSRIs very slowly
and just titrate up very slowly, just in the way you would want to taper off SSRIs very slowly. And you can experiment with what is the right dose for you anywhere between that microdose and 20 grams...
"Very clear evidence whether there is a risk of dependence long-term if you pound those high doses. We have no idea if there's a risk of dependence when you go a year or two out on 50 milligrams of melatonin a day. We can also use some strategies to increase mitochondrial turnover. And my fasting feeding reset, I think, is a great way to do that. Exercise is a great way to stimulate mitochondrial activity."
