Which psychedelic session can be taken with Citalopram?

Question

The use of the SSRI medication Citalopram in combination with psychedelics is generally advised against. SSRIs in combination with MDMA and Ayahuasca can lead to a dangerous and potentially fatal excess of serotonin. Previously, the combination of SSRIs and psilocybin was advised against, but scientific research shows that there is no increased risk with this combination. A psychedelic session/therapy with psilocybin (from magic mushrooms or truffles) currently appears to be one of the options considered safe for someone using SSRIs, including Citalopram (Cipramil), Escitalopram (Lexapro), Fluoxetine (Prozac), Fluvoxamine (Fevarin), Paroxetine (Seroxat), and Sertraline (Zoloft).

The sedative effect of SSRIs on psilocybin

Scientific studies suggest that combining SSRIs with psilocybin might reduce the effects of psilocybin, but that combining SSRIs with psilocybin does not result in dangerous interactions. Although SSRIs may slightly reduce the effects of psilocybin, it appears that the therapeutic effects of psilocybin are still present, albeit possibly less intense. While more research is needed to understand the exact interaction between SSRIs and psilocybin, we can state that the emotional response and depth of the trip are slightly reduced.

Stopping the SSRI before the psilocybin session?

If you are currently using SSRIs and are interested in using psilocybin, it is important to discuss this with your treating physician. You can discuss whether tapering off psilocybin, and thereby achieving a stronger effect from the psilocybin trip, is more important than the withdrawal symptoms caused by tapering off the SSRI. A choice must be made from the following three options, because a psilocybin session is less effective even if withdrawal symptoms are present, such as dizziness, nausea, headache, fatigue, mood swings, or electric shocks:

No psilocybin session, but choose other forms of therapy (EMDR, CBT, etc.)
Continue taking the SSRI medication and accept the potential reduced effect of psilocybin, or try a higher dosage during a possible second psilocybin session.
Taper off the SSRI (in consultation with a doctor) and do a psilocybin session after the withdrawal phase.

It is always important to ask your treating physician for advice regarding your specific situation. At Triptherapie, we do not provide medical advice, but you can discuss our non-medical suggestions.

More info: Psilocybin and SSRI | Psychedelic session

Marcel · Accepted Answer

If you use Citalopram and are interested in psychedelic therapy, there are a number of important considerations. The most suitable and safe form of psychedelic session in combination with SSRI medication such as Citalopram is a psilocybin session with truffles or participation in a truffle ceremony. Other forms such as psiloflora, ayahuasca, or combinations with MAO inhibitors are discouraged due to increased risks of interactions, including serotonin syndrome.

Recent studies and the experience of Triptherapie show that psilocybin in combination with SSRIs such as citalopram safe could be, but the effects can be dampened are. That is to say, the intensity of the trip — both visual and emotional — is often less strong. Nevertheless, many people still experience therapeutic benefits, even while using SSRIs.

You have three options at Triptherapie:

You continue using Citalopram and accept that the trip may be slightly less intense. Sometimes a slightly higher dosage is chosen for a second session.
You taper off the SSRI in consultation with your doctor and wait until the withdrawal period is over for a more intense experience.
You are (for the time being) not opting for psychedelic therapy, for example due to contraindications, and are exploring other forms of therapy such as EMDR or cognitive behavioral therapy.

Due to these nuances, filling out the intake for trip therapy essential. Based on your situation, it can then be assessed which session is most suitable, including dosage advice and a preparation plan.

[Solved] Which psychedelic session can be taken with Citalopram?