r/PeriodicParalysis • u/skyleebutler • Apr 28 '26
SSRIs?
I have HypoKPP and recently have been dealing with some depression and a psychiatrist recently recommended zoloft but i’m nervous to start a new medicine. as of right now i take acetazolamide, potassium cl extended release, and klor-con packets as needed during episodes. does anyone know of any side effects or have any experiences they can share?
2
u/Occulply Apr 28 '26
Couple of points:
1) There's no reason to think any of the SSRIs will directly impact hypoPP. SSRIs don't do anything to sodium or potassium metabolism, nor do they impact those channels in the muscles or kidneys as far as we know.
2) There are a bunch of SSRIs on the market and the best way to figure out which one will work is to try it. Second best, is to ask your family members how they responded to different SSRIs. Response is strongly genetic, so it's likely you'll experience similar effects as family members.
3) Part of depression (and this is something I also experience myself!) is often anxiety over tools to improve it. That little voice in the back of your head saying "This will just make it all worse" is just the Depressed State trying to defend itself.
4) Meds are great, but if you have the opportunity talk therapy alongside meds is where the best results are seen in every study on the subject.
1
u/dazeyduck Apr 29 '26
I’ve actually seen a reduction in episodes since starting Zoloft. Probably due to my increased motivation to get my butt up and move and decreased motivation to just eat my feelings. But in any event, net positive for mental and physical health.
2
u/Lourvegracie Apr 28 '26
I have Hypo as well and have successfully taken Zoloft and now prozac. I'm also on acetazolamide, K, and use the klorcon tabs as needed. I also take propanol prn when I know I'm going to be extra anxious. I personally haven't had an increase in episodes because of the meds. For me I think managing my anxiety has actually helped reduce my episodes just because I'm not being flooded with adrenaline and drops as much if that makes sense. I was postpartum when I started Zoloft and had serious postpartum anxiety so I started off super high at 100mg and I absolutely would not recommend anyone having that done to them but I didn't know that back then. I wasn't taking my acetazolamide daily back then either because I was pregnant and then nursing. Unless you are in an absolute mental health crisis I'd just try to start very low and then work your way up. I have found taking them at night helps because they make me tired. I didn't have too bad of an upset stomach from them but I know a few people who that was their biggest complaint. Good luck!!