Natural Supplements for Mental Health

Question 1

Modestly effective in slowing decline – equivalent to AChE inhibitor like donepizil; use as additive with AChE inhibitors

Answer 1

Ginkgo biloba

Question 2

As effective as older TCAs; boost effectiveness of SSRIs

Answer 2

S-adenosylmethionine

Question 3

Fewer adverse effects than benzodiazepines; useful for sleep/anxiety in children with ADHD

Answer 3

Valerian

Question 4

Boost effectiveness of antidepressants; may trigger mania in bipolar disorder, so needs to be used with mood stabilizer

Answer 4

Omega-3 FAs

Question 5

Works in mild/moderate symptoms of depression; possible alternative medication in children/adolescents

Answer 5

St. John’s Wort

Question 6

Improves sleep quality in patients with schizophrenia, major depression, and seasonal affective disorder; alternative to drugs in children/elderly

Answer 6

Melatonin