Posted 30 September 2003 - 12:33 AM
Hello, what is the truth about antianxiety medications and memory loss?. I have read all sorts of commentaries on the web about memory problems due to the use of benzodiazepines and SSRI.
Nice questions.
They can definitely affect memory it depends on the person, dosage, and drug.
How to tell if clonazepam or alprazolam will cause problems? are SSRI or buspirone better?.
If the memory problems has gotten worse 1-4 weeks after starting them (and you have no B-12 or Thyroid deficiency), it’s a good chance that’s the cause (Unfortunately there is no 100% way of knowing if that’s the cause, Neuropsychological testing before and after, including blood tests help though).
SSRI’s are less likely to cause problems, but if possible I recommend trying safer alternates, with your doctor’s permission of course.
If problems arise, which nootropic are good to combine with the medications?
For anxiety Theanine can be used safely (though a brain supplement and not a nootropic) 400-1,000 mg daily or as needed.
Picamilon has had great success as well 100-300 mg daily.
Theanine has no known interactions, Picamilon as well, but I would take a low dose for the first 2 weeks before increasing.