Which supplements should I avoid with antidepressants (ssris / snris)?

5-HTP, L-Tryptophan, St. John's Wort — see the severity-grouped list above. Always confirm with your pharmacist, who can check your exact regimen.

Is it safe to take supplements while on antidepressants (ssris / snris)?

Some supplements are fine, but 4 have a documented or theoretical interaction ranging from 'monitor' to 'avoid'. Never start, stop, or combine a supplement with antidepressants (ssris / snris) without checking with the clinician who manages your medication.

Supplement–drug interactions

Supplements That Interact with Antidepressants (SSRIs / SNRIs)

4 supplements in NutriDex have a known or theoretical interaction with antidepressants (ssris / snris), including 3 best avoided entirely. Grouped by severity below; each links to its full evidence, dosing & mechanism. This is educational and not exhaustive — always tell your doctor or pharmacist about every supplement you take before combining it with medication.

Avoid — do not combine 3

5-HTP

Can cause serotonin syndrome: agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high temperature.

L-Tryptophan

Can cause serotonin syndrome: agitation, tremor, sweating, rapid heartbeat, high fever; can be life-threatening.

St. John's Wort

Can cause serotonin syndrome: agitation, tremor, fever, rapid heartbeat; can be life-threatening.

Caution — use only with medical guidance 1

Saffron

May add to serotonergic/antidepressant effects; monitor when combined.

Each supplement links to its full evidence, dosing, mechanism & citations. See also all medication interaction guides →

Supplements That Interact with Antidepressants (SSRIs / SNRIs)

⛔ Avoid — do not combine 3

⚠ Caution — use only with medical guidance 1

Avoid — do not combine 3

Caution — use only with medical guidance 1