A new study has found that taking folic acid supplements can interfere with the efficacy of certain mental health medications. The research, which was conducted by the University of London, looked at the effect of folic acid on the levels of serotonin in the brains of patients taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin that is found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, and fortified foods. It is also available as a supplement.
The study found that folic acid supplements can increase the levels of serotonin in the brain. This is because folic acid is converted into folate, which is a precursor to serotonin.
While this may be beneficial for some people, it can also lead to problems for those taking SSRIs. This is because SSRIs work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, which leads to an increase in serotonin levels.
If folic acid supplements are taken, it can cause the levels of serotonin to become too high, which can lead to side effects such as anxiety and insomnia.
The study found that the effect of folic acid on serotonin levels is dose-dependent, which means that the higher the dose of folic acid, the greater the effect on serotonin levels.
Folic acid supplements are often recommended for women who are pregnant or who are trying to become pregnant. This is because folic acid can help to prevent birth defects.
However, the new study suggests that women who are taking SSRIs should not take folic acid supplements. This is because of the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when the levels of serotonin in the body become too high. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include confusion, agitation, restlessness, sweating, and rapid heart rate.
If you are taking an SSRI and are considering taking a folic acid supplement, you should speak to your doctor first.
A new study has cast doubt on the safety of taking folic acid supplements while taking certain mental health drugs.
Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin and is found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts and fortified foods. It is important for the formation of red blood cells and the prevention of neural tube defects in developing fetuses.
According to the new research, published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, taking folic acid supplements may interfere with the efficacy of certain mental health drugs, specifically those used to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
The study looked at data from over 4,500 people with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia who were part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
Those who took folic acid supplements were more likely to have lower levels of the active form of the mental health drug in their blood.
The study’s authors say that the findings “raise concern” about the safety of taking folic acid supplements while taking certain mental health drugs.
They caution that people should speak with their doctor before starting or stopping any medications, including over-the-counter supplements.
