Supplements & Other Medications

An Indian herb (one of many) that causes GABA like activity in the brain in the same way as a benzo. It depresses neuron activity and inhibits nerve cells from firing. It may slow recovery by suppressing the up-regulating of damaged receptors.

Cannabidiol. a naturally occurring substance which can be harvested and mixed with hemp or coconut oil. There’s a lot of confusion around its legality but the vast majority of cannabinoids are controlled substances that may only be legal for medicinal use. It can be taken as a tincture, cream or spray and gradually built up. As it has psychoactive properties it can cause reactions in benzo withdrawal. This substance is best discussed on the groups set up for this purpose.

Can be found in the form of a tea or essential oil and is used to help insomnia due to its sedative effects. It’s likely that an ingredient in this binds to benzo receptors in the brain and depresses CNS activity. It can sometimes be tolerated in a weak dose but use with caution.

Also known as Pharma GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid). This doesn’t cross the blood brain barrier so has little or no effect. It’s an amino acid and neurotransmitter which is not found in ordinary foods. There are various claims for it helping to lower anxiety and improve mood but research is lacking and all we know is that it doesn’t reach the brain in sufficient quantities to provide any relief. If it could do this it would prevent the GABA receptors from returning to normal in benzo withdrawal. Try only with caution.

A Chinese herb said to promote wellbeing. It’s likely the various chemical components called ginsengosides are responsible for any clinical effects it has. The quality of different ginseng products is highly variable and some may contain other substances. There are no rigorous studies to support any of its claims and it has the usual side effects of headaches, dizziness and diarrhea. It’s advised to never take this with antidepressants and possibly benzos as well.

Another amino acid, 5-Hydroxytryptophan which the body naturally produces. A so-called natural product which is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. There’s little scientific evidence to show that it can treat any condition safely and effectively. It does have many side effects such diarrhea, bloating, stomach pain, decrease in appetite, muscle pain and so forth. It’s best avoided in benzo withdrawal to prevent a worsening of symptoms in the already compromised brain. It must never be used alongside antidepressants as it could contribute towards the development of serotonin syndrome. It also interacts with other supplements such Tryptophan and St. John’s Wort. Unregulated and not evaluated for safety.

this has a complicated mode of action and may act on GABA receptors in the same way as benzos. It’s illegal in some countries and posses psychoactive properties and is known to have caused liver toxicity and skin rashes. More research is needed and is best well avoided in withdrawal to prevent worsening problems.

There’s not enough known about this herb to be sure of its safety. It’s classed as a natural opiod and has mild, opiod-like activity on the brain. Negative side effects of include weight loss, insomnia, skin problems, nausea, aggression, emotional changes, muscle pain and frequent urination. It interacts with opiod receptors in the brain to produce stimulant effects but can have uncomfortable and dangerous side effects which have led to it being banned in several countries including the UK. Its not advised in benzo withdrawal.

Acts on GABA in the brain and is a potent inhibitor of the enzyme GABA transaminase. Sometimes used for digestive problems or restlessness but again has the potential to interfere with GABA repair.

This is another amino acid found in green tea and in small quantities in black tea. It acts on GABA as well as serotonin and dopamine which are neurotransmitters altered adversely in benzo withdrawal. Only limited data is available supporting any efficacy of the substance. It’s not recommended in benzo withdrawal as it can worsen withdrawal symptoms and should be tapered from. Headaches and dizziness are the most common side effects.

One of the most controversial supplements in benzo withdrawal. This mineral binds with GABA in the brain and so can prevent up-regulation when recovering from benzo withdrawal. Taken long term it has been known to cause difficult setbacks and a reactivation or worsening of withdrawal symptoms. It must be tapered from to prevent upsurges in symptoms especially after a few weeks of use. All forms of magnesium have the same potential to cause problems whether so-called natural, in powders or oils, or in capsule and pill form. Some have found the mineral useful as one off support but this should only be tried with caution. Magnesium is best obtained from foods such as spinach, kale, avocado, bananas, nuts, seeds, some beans, many veg and seafoods. Side effects may be diarrhea, nausea, muscle weakness, lethargy, low BP, urine retention, etc….

A hormone secreted by the pineal gland. It regulates the sleep/wake cycle. It may help sleep if used occasionally when completely off benzos and at very low doses, well under that usually found in supplements. The lower doses, under 0.5.mg, are more effective than the higher. Too much can disrupt the sleep cycle and cause insomnia, headaches and dizziness. It should not be used in conjunction with benzodiazepines, antidepressants, birth control pills, diabetes medication, anticoagulants and flumazenil. Use with caution and not continuously to prevent dependence.

Sometimes used as treatment for liver problems. Silymarin is the active ingredient in milk thistle and this is both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Its unclear of the benefits it has on the body or in benzo withdrawal.

A GABAergic substance with the potential to interfere with healing. Used in Greek, Spanish and Italian cooking and has caused reactions for some. Sometimes used for digestive problems to fight against bacteria, viruses and fungi as well as parasites. Use only with caution internally and externally.

This has an anxiolytic effect similar to benzos and can therefore act in the same way as an updose or rescue dose if taken while tapering or recovering. It’s sometimes known as a ‘natural benzo’ for its action on the GABA receptors in the brain. Some research has found it as effective as benzos which may indicate its action on the same receptors and therefore its need to be avoided in withdrawal from benzos.

Often used for depression. Products tend to vary and there’s no evidence it’s beneficial in benzo withdrawal.

Often used as a herbal sedative in the form of a tea or pills. Its method of action is again one that affects the GABA system and it also stimulates an enzyme called Glutamate decarboxylase. It is likely to slow the recovery of GABA receptors. Side effects include headaches, stomach upset, excitability, insomnia. The long term safety is not known.

This is an old research paper on Melatonin which may explain why less is more with this drug. I’m not promoting it’s use but I do get asked a lot of questions about what to do for insomnia. There’s no further research as to what the long term effects of using this drug are so it’s only recommended in the short term and should only be tried in a small dose when in benzo withdrawal if absolutely necessary. It could prevent natural sleep returning and impact on the natural production of this hormone by the pineal gland. It can only be got on prescription in the UK in 2mg tablets (1mg for children) and only in an extended release formula. 0.3mg is the recommended dose for the older age group.

If you are using melatonin for sleep and have done so for more than a few days and suffering bad withdrawal symptoms it may be worth looking into the dose you take and whether this should be reduced and stopped. I’m not sure if melatonin needs tapering, I don’t think so but perhaps someone else could help with their own experiences. It’s always worth remembering that any hormones will subdue our own hormonal systems over time and lower the output of natural hormones. Hope the article helps.

http://news.mit.edu/2001/melatonin-1017

‘Melatonin also inhibits the secretion of dopamine, which makes it bad news for restless legs syndrome patients. It might increase RLS symptoms in the evening and night, according to researchers at Sacre-Coeur Hospital in Montreal.’

Some quick information with regards to Melatonin

This is to add to our supplements Unit 4 as many people seek help for insomnia and turn to melatonin. All previous information still stands but this may be helpful as well.

• Melatonin is considered to be more effective when the dose taken is under 1mg.
• A good quality liquid melatonin that doesn’t contain fillers may prevent negative reactions.
• Once sleep routine has been re-established then stop the melatonin, it doesn’t appear to be necessary to taper.
• If you have daytime lethargy after using this at night then try a low dose one hour before bed and don’t retake during the night.
• If liquid melatonin doesn’t keep you asleep all night then try a low, extended release option but no more than 1mg.
• Don’t take melatonin if you are taking any other drugs to avoid interactions and never take with a benzo.
• Don’t take if you have an autoimmune problem as it could worsen this.
• Better not to take if receiving HRT as it may interfere with this as it is also a hormone and HRT increases natural melatonin levels.

I am not supporting taking this or any other supplements for sleep as trying to let your natural sleep return is always best but when suffering for long periods without sleep it is seemingly the most natural solution. Always remember it won’t be for everybody.

This information comes from various sources but seems to be that generally accepted. In the UK melatonin is only available on prescription so doctors can monitor its effects. For some people a low dose does help sleep once completely off Benzos and recovering.

I would be interested in comments of anybody’s experiences with this.

Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines are drugs that temporarily relieve a runny nose, or reduce sneezing, itching of the nose or throat, and itchy watery eyes. However, antihistamines increase the effect of benzodiazepines and sleeping pills and can cause cognitive deficits, dangerous drops in blood pressure, suppression of the lungs and extreme sedation. Antihistamines also alter the metabolism of many SSRIs, increasing blood levels of the Antidepressant and increasing their side effects. Combining antihistamines with hypertension medication may cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

Most nasal decongestant sprays will cause increased adrenaline and norepinephrine, which can worsen anxiety and depression. Use of decongestants for longer than 3-5 days can damage the nasal tissue and lead to chronic congestion. Nasal decongestants may decrease the effectiveness of some blood pressure medications, and the most common side effects are stomach upset, trouble sleeping, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, nervousness, fast heartbeat, loss of appetite and shaking.

Painkillers such as Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen are called analgesics, which numb pain. Both can have a profound effect on other medications, the absorption of nutrients and therefore to our general health. Acetaminophen, also known as Paracetamol, is widely used in over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer derived from coal tar and has been shown to reduce glutathione production (the body’s master antioxidant). Acetaminophen is metabolized primarily in the kidneys with a lesser amount traveling through the liver, where a toxic by-product called N-acetyl-p-benzoquioneimine (NAPQI) is produced in response to the acetaminophen, and is extremely harmful to the liver. The side effects of acetaminophen include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, sweating, irritability, abdominal pain (particularly near the liver), yellow eyes or skin, liver or kidney failure, heart problems and seizures. Ibuprofen reduces melatonin levels and may affect sleep if taken at bedtime. Other drugs that interfere with melatonin production are Valium, Xanax, diuretics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, alcohol and caffeine. Ibuprofen may also exacerbate anxiety and depression by causing a disruption in the hormone system that participates in the contraction and relaxation of the muscles, blood vessels and modulates inflammation. Side effects include rash, riming of the ears, headaches, dizziness, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, bruising, tingling, numbness, nervousness, depression and insomnia.

Over-the-Counter medications that reduce the production of stomach acid can upset the natural balance of healthy bacteria required for good health, and allow unhealthy bacteria to proliferate. Proton-pump inhibitors block stomach acid production AND increase the risk of a common infectious form of diarrhea. Taking a heartburn medication (Nexium, Losec) significantly increase the risk of diarrhea from the Clostridium difficile bacteria. Frequently prescribed anti-heartburn drugs called H2 antagonists (Zantac, Prevacid) double the risk of the bacterial diarrhea. PPIs and H2 antagonists reduce gastric acid, allowing for bacteria to multiply in the digestive system. While antibiotics formerly blamed for outbreaks of the illness have declined in use, the acid-blocking drugs have become steadily more popular to treat ulcers and conditions such as gastric reflux disease. Additionally, stomach medications can slow the absorption of benzodiazepines and sleeping pills and lead to increased anxiety and insomnia. Antacids taken with antibiotics, heart and blood pressure or thyroid medications can decrease their absorption up to 90 percent, and may pose a concern with certain antidepressants. Antacids also bind to nutrients and prevent proper absorption.

Medications for GERD and acid reflux can potentiate the benzodiazepines in your system. The proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most effective antisecretory agents used to treat acid-related disorders. As such, they are frequently prescribed for patients who are concurrently using other medications. PPIs may interact with other drugs through numerous mechanisms. The most important include competitive inhibition of hepatic cytochrome P (CYP) 450 enzymes involved in drug metabolism, and alteration of the absorption of other drugs via changes in gastric pH levels. Poor metabolizers, who lack CYP2C19, may be particularly predisposed to drug interactions. Although the potential for drug interactions is high, few clinically significant interactions have been reported for the PPIs. Nevertheless, caution is indicated when certain drugs are co-prescribed with these agents. The incidence of clinically significant drug interactions increases proportionately with the number of drugs taken and with the age of the patient. The drug interaction with the greatest clinical importance is the reduction in benzodiazepine clearance by omeprazole.

-Division of Gastroenterology, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA, USA. MAY

DO NOT TAKE ANY ANTIBIOTIC THAT IS IN THE FLOUROQUINOLONE FAMILY . These usually have "flox" in the name-levafloxacin (Levaquin), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), ect. This family of antibiotics cause a SEVERE adverse reaction when taken with benzodiazepines.

Added information and noted contraindications:

Activated Charcoal:
Activated charcoal can cause an acute withdrawal reaction when used while on benzodiazepines.

Detox:
Detoxification can strip the active ingredients of medications from your body and blood stream putting you at risk for a cold turkey reaction that can be difficult to pinpoint since you may be still taking your medication daily. Please be mindful that detox will rid the body of good nutrients, medications, and in some cases even your intestinal flora and yeasts that can cause major side effects to even someone who is very healthy.

These drugs, such as Prilosec (omeprazole), Nexium (esomeprazole), Prevacid (lansoprazole), and Protonix (pantoprazole), are used to treat acid reflux. They can increase blood levels of benzodiazepines by interacting with the same liver enzymes that clear them from the body. This can result in worsening side effects of benzodiazepines, including confusion, sedation, dizziness, falls, and impaired driving.

The most common offenders are Prilosec and Nexium. Mary Hall, a retiree living in North Carolina, was prescribed Prilosec by her doctor while taking clonazepam.

“The clonazepam started to build up, and I started feeling stoned like I was taking more doses of a benzo. I had to skip my night dose of the clonazepam and stop taking the Prilosec after three days.” She also developed a “horrible headache” that lasted for several days. She notified her doctor, and he was unaware of the potential interaction. ‘

Read also if still on benzos

From the American Journal of Psychiatry…
‘Fifteen patients with 146 cumulative years of tranquilizer use were withdrawn from their benzodiazepine (nine gradually and six abruptly), and buspirone, a new nonbenzodiazepine anxiolytic, was substituted. The addition of buspirone did not appear to lessen the intensity of the withdrawal state. This finding supports preclinical studies indicating that buspirone has no clinically significant benzodiazepine receptor activity.’

From the U.K. NICE Guidelines for Doctors…
Buspirone‘Buspirone hydrochloride is thought to act at specific serotonin (5HT1A) receptors. Response to treatment may take up to 2 weeks. It does not alleviate the symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal. Therefore a patient taking a benzodiazepine still needs to have the benzodiazepine withdrawn gradually; it is advisable to do this before starting buspirone hydrochloride. The dependence and abuse potential of buspirone hydrochloride is low; it is, however, licensed for short-term use only (but specialists occasionally use it for several months).’

From the Ashton Manual…‘Other drugs which have been found to be of little or no value in withdrawal trials over 4-6 weeks include buspirone (BuSpar, an anti-anxiety drug), carbamazepine (Tegretol, an anticonvulsant), clonidine (Catapres, an anti-anxiety drug sometimes used in alcohol detoxification), nifedipine (Adalat) and alpidem.’

Full Information on the Actions of Buspirone

Statement on GABAPENTIN a drug that comes up again and again on this group. Sources used come from David Healy and Heather Ashton.

“Another “fake” hypnotic option has been pregabalin and gabapentin. These drugs, which act on the same GABA system as the benzodiazepines, and are addictive, have crept into use as hypnotics on the back of their marketing for pain-management. They have a limited use in a small number of neuropathic pains but are now being prescribed widely in primary care for pain in general. As some patients seem initially happy when they take them, doctors have loosened up about using them especially at night when pain has been cast as one of the main reasons people can’t get to sleep.”(This was written by David Healey a high profile psychiatrist who is well aware of the damage drugs can do.)

Heather Ashton also noted this drug in her Manual...
“There have been some reports that gabapentin (Neurontin), tiagabine (Gabitril) and possibly pregabalin (yet to be licensed) help with sleep and anxiety in withdrawal. However, there have been no controlled trials and it is not clear whether these drugs themselves cause withdrawal effects. In practice additional drugs are seldom needed with very slow benzodiazepine tapering. Only in special situations there might be a place for an antidepressant, beta blocker, sedative antihistamine or anticonvulsant. There is no need to avoid ordinary pain killers such as Tylenol, Feldene etc. for pain.”

Your brain has already suffered the onslaught of Benzos and another hypnotic drug is merely going to extend the time it takes to recover so always consider this and then the possibility of another long taper before making your decision. Also that it may worsen symptoms. There are several Facebook Groups for Gabapentin and other Psychiatric drugs to help with this decision.

The lesson was learnt with benzos and the problems they cause but there are other drugs that cause similar problems and should be avoided if possible. Always research fully and make up your own mind before adding anything at all.

A link but read only for information as it can be triggering...If you’re not able to read the full text take this fact alone from it..........“This is what I have since learned about the drug: Stanford University did a study on gabapentin in 2009 and found that it prevents the formation of new synapses in the brain. Many who take it long-term eventually develop cognitive impairment and short-term memory loss. Gabapentin affects GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid—a “calming” element) in the body. When taking the drug, one’s body will adjust to the artificially induced GABA and start to produce less of its own. (That fact is similar to benzodiazepines except that gabapentin affects GABA through calcium receptors rather than GABA receptors.).”

https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/04/gabapentin-horror/