People who try to wean themselves off Citalopram might want to try a herbal over-the-counter drug called hypericum or St. John's wort. Make sure that you get a real, medically active hypericum extract (at least 600 mg per pill / capsule) and not something homeopathic.
It works great for less severe cases of depression and has none of the side effects that are associated with SSRIs. The only known side effect is an increased photosensibility, but I haven't had any problems with that. It is non-addictive and doesn't negatively affect the libido, probably because it slightly inhibits not only serotonin reuptake but also dopamine reuptake (similar to Wellbutrin). I haven't taken any prescription antidepressant since I went on hypericum.
Disclaimer: Of course if you are currently taking prescription antidepressants, it's a bad idea to taper off and start taking hypericum instead. Like I said, it's weaker than prescription drugs. I'd only recommend it if you are currently not taking anything else.
13 Jan 2012, 1:12 pm
