Posted by linkadge on August 6, 2006, at 6:28:03
In reply to Re: Couldn't you take Tryp/5-HTP to fix the depletion?, posted by noelle on August 4, 2006, at 15:57:47
Please read this whole post before you freak out.
Ecstacy is not the same as SSRI's. Reuptake of serotonin is only one of the actions of ecstacy.
Ecstacy causes a massive release in serotonin and dopamine in addition to effects on serotonin reuptake, and monoamine oxidase inhibition.
The neurotoxic effects of ecstacy are likely unrelated to its effects on serotonin uptake, and more a result of the serotonin release.
Yes neurotoxicity to the serotonergic system is rough, but *not* the end of the world.
Serotoninergic neurons can be replaced, but it takes time. The growth factor BDNF when elevated, can troph the serotonergic system.
Tryptophan or 5-htp may help some of the symtpoms, but if there has been actuall dammage to the serotonergic system, this will not fix it.
It could provide symptomatic improvement untill such a time as the serotoniergic system has had a chance to heal. This could take years, decades, who knows, it depends on the extent of the problem.Never take ecstacy again.
Supplements I would recomend you experiement with are tryptophan, or (5-htp), Niacine, b6, folic acid, Omega-3, SJW, vigourous aerobic exercise (the best way to induce BDNF expression). Certain minerals like chromium, selenium, and magnesium may help too.
**It is not a hopeless situation**, that is, if you never touch the drug again.
Take care, and email me at linkadge@hotmail.com if you need any more help. I've been helping a friend get better from heavy ecstacy use, and he is doing better. He says that he is feeling more stable than he has in a long time since doing the drug.
Take care.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:673181
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060802/msgs/674226.html