Ayahuasca and SSRIs: Why They Don't Mix and Understanding Our Safety Protocols

If you are on a journey of healing, you may be exploring all available paths. For many, that journey includes working with antidepressants like SSRIs to manage depression or anxiety. It may also lead you to the profound healing potential of Ayahuasca.

This leads to one of the most critical questions we receive: "Can I drink Ayahuasca if I am taking antidepressants?"

The answer, in short, is an unequivocal no.

This is not a guideline; it is a critical medical rule. The combination can be extremely dangerous, and any retreat center that tells you otherwise is not operating with your safety as its first priority.

At One Soul Retreats, your physical and psychological safety is the foundation of everything we do. We're not just here to guide you; we are here to protect you. This article will explain, in simple terms, the science behind this rule and walk you through the safety protocols we have in place.

The Simple Science: A Tale of Too Much Serotonin

To understand the risk, we only need to look at one key chemical: serotonin.

Serotonin is a vital neurotransmitter that regulates your mood, happiness, and sense of well-being.

How SSRIs Work: Antidepressants known as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)—like Prozac, Zoloft, or Lexapro—work by increasing the amount of serotonin available in your brain. They do this by blocking its "reuptake," or re-absorption, leaving more of it active.
How Ayahuasca Works: The Ayahuasca brew is made of two plants. One plant (Chacruna) provides the visionary DMT, but the other, the Banisteriopsis caapi vine, is a powerful MAO-Inhibitor (MAOI). This MAOI also increases the amount of serotonin in your brain by stopping the enzyme (monoamine oxidase) that "cleans it up."

Do you see the problem?

SSRIs (increase serotonin) + Ayahuasca's MAOI (increase serotonin) = A dangerous overload.

The Risk: Serotonin Syndrome

When your brain is flooded with far more serotonin than it can handle, it can lead to a serious condition called Serotonin Syndrome.

This isn't just a "bad trip"; it is a life-threatening medical emergency.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include:

Agitation, restlessness, and confusion
Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
Dilated pupils
Muscle rigidity or twitching
Heavy sweating
In severe cases: high fever, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and unconsciousness.

Your healing journey should never, ever involve a risk like this. This is why our medical screening process is so rigorous. This risk also applies to SNRIs (like Cymbalta) and other psychoactive medications.

This Isn't a "No," It's a "Not Yet"

Hearing this can be disheartening, especially if you are seeking Ayahuasca to help with the very conditions your medication treats. We understand this deeply.

This is not a "no" to your healing. It is a "not yet" to this specific path.

This is where the true work of a responsible retreat center begins. Your desire for healing is valid and beautiful. Our job is to ensure you can pursue it without risking your life. This is why our safety protocols are the most important service we offer.

The One Soul Retreats Safety Protocol

Our process is built on transparency, medical supervision, and absolute honesty. Here is what you can expect from us.

Mandatory, In-Depth Medical Screening: Every single potential guest must complete a detailed medical intake form. This is reviewed by our medical team to identify any contraindications, with SSRIs and other medications being a primary red flag.
A Clear "Washout" Period: For your safety, you must be completely off SSRIs and similar medications for a significant period before you can sit in a ceremony. This "washout" period is typically 4-6 weeks, but the exact time depends on the specific medication and your history.
You MUST Consult Your Doctor: This is critical. We are not your physicians and will never tell you to stop taking a prescribed medication. You must speak with your prescribing doctor to create a safe tapering plan. Stopping these medications abruptly can also have serious side effects.
Total Honesty: We require your total honesty, and in return, we offer a judgment-free space. Hiding medication use doesn't just put you at risk; it endangers the entire ceremony and the sacred space we hold.

Your Healing Journey Deserves a Safe Start

Choosing to work with Ayahuasca is a monumental step. But the medicine can only meet you when your body is properly and safely prepared.

A retreat center that is casual about your medical history is not a safe container for this profound work.

At One Soul Retreats, we are unapologetically strict about these protocols because we have a profound respect for this medicine and for every single person who trusts us with their journey.

If you are currently on medication and feel the call to Ayahuasca, please reach out to us. We can discuss your situation and help you understand the necessary steps to pursue this path safely when the time is right.

Ayahuasca and SSRIs: Why They Don't Mix and Understanding Our Safety Protocols