The short version
- Your prescriber leads any medication change.
- Never stop or change a medication on your own. Some are dangerous to stop suddenly.
- Tapering often takes one to two months, so start the conversation early.
- Our nurse practitioner reviews every medical intake.
The ones that matter most
Lithium
Lithium does not mix with this work. Together they carry a risk of seizure and unpredictable effects. If you take lithium, talk to your prescribing psychiatrist and to us before you apply.
Antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs)
With psilocybin, antidepressants are looked at case by case. Any change is made with your prescriber, after our nurse practitioner reviews your intake. With ayahuasca, they do not mix, because ayahuasca acts like an MAOI and the combination can cause serotonin syndrome. Do not stop on your own.
MAOIs
Medication MAOIs do not mix with this work, with psilocybin or with ayahuasca. The combination can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure and serotonin syndrome. If you take one, talk to your prescriber and to us before you apply.
Other medications
Many other medications, including blood pressure medication, sleep medication, anti-anxiety medication, stimulants and hormone treatments, need a conversation. Some blunt the experience. Some are risky to stop suddenly. List everything you take, including supplements, on your intake. Our nurse practitioner reviews it and tells you what to ask your prescriber.
How tapering works
If a change is needed, your prescriber builds the plan. It depends on the medication, the dose and how long you have been on it. Tapering often takes one to two months, and sometimes longer. If it cannot be done safely in time, we move you to a later retreat. We would rather you come when it is right.
A medication list worth sharing
Prepare a complete list for your prescriber and screening team: prescribed medicines, nonprescription products, supplements, and substances used occasionally. Include names, doses, and when you last took them. Even a cough remedy or herbal product can be relevant to an interaction review.
Ayahuasca commonly contains compounds that inhibit monoamine oxidase, making interactions a particular concern. Psilocybin also requires individual screening. A website cannot calculate a safe plan for your situation. Never stop, skip, or taper a medication on your own to qualify; your prescriber directs any change and its timing.
Review of ayahuasca pharmacology and interactions · Preparation guide · Integration guide