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How Long After Discontinuing Antidepressant Can St John's Wort Be Taken?

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Posted on Thu, 20 Aug 2015
Question: How long I have to wait after stopping antidepressant to take St John's wort, thank for your help
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Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (47 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
At least one week needed to clear the drugs

Detailed Answer:
Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic

I can understand your concern. Most of antidepressants act by increasing serotonergic neurotransmission in brain. St John's Wort also increase serotonin in brain. Taking antidepressants with St Johns Wort may cause serotonin syndrome. It is advisable to start the drug at least a week after stopping the antidepressants. Special precautions should be used while on SSRIs.

Thanks, Hope this helps you, if you have more doubts you can ask again.

Take care
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2007

Answered : 5193 Questions

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How Long After Discontinuing Antidepressant Can St John's Wort Be Taken?

Brief Answer: At least one week needed to clear the drugs Detailed Answer: Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic I can understand your concern. Most of antidepressants act by increasing serotonergic neurotransmission in brain. St John's Wort also increase serotonin in brain. Taking antidepressants with St Johns Wort may cause serotonin syndrome. It is advisable to start the drug at least a week after stopping the antidepressants. Special precautions should be used while on SSRIs. Thanks, Hope this helps you, if you have more doubts you can ask again. Take care