Brain zaps
Brain zaps can be described as sharp electrical shock sensations in the head and brain which sometimes originate in the head and extend throughout the body.[1] For many, it feels as though one's brain has experienced a sudden series of brief vibrations or jolts of electricity that can cause intense discomfort, disorientation, and distress.[2]
This effect can be caused by the withdrawal, dose reduction, or discontinuation of antidepressant drugs, including selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as sertraline, paroxetine, and venlafaxine. It can also be caused by MDMA use and the experience may sometimes last for days at a time. If caused by antidepressant withdrawal, it is strongly recommended that one taper or reduce their dose gradually instead of stopping abruptly. Tramadol, an opioid painkiller with SNRI properties, can also cause brain zaps upon abrupt discontinuation.[citation needed]
Fish oil has been reported to provide temporary relief from this affliction, although scientific literature supporting this claim is sparse.[citation needed]
Psychoactive substances
Compounds within our psychoactive substance index which may cause this effect include:
- 3,4-CTMP
- 4-AcO-DMT
- 4-AcO-MET
- 4-FA
- 4-HO-MET
- 6-APB
- 6-APDB
- MDA
- MDEA
- MDMA
- Psilocin
- Psilocybin mushrooms
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
- THJ-018
See also
- Responsible use
- Subjective effects index
- Psychedelics - Subjective effects
- Dissociatives - Subjective effects
- Deliriants - Subjective effects
References
- ↑ Fireworks or brain zaps? | Psychology Today | https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/creativity-way-life/201107/fireworks-or-brain-zaps
- ↑ Why You Get 'Brain Zaps' After Taking MDMA, and How You Can Stop Them (Vice) http://www.vice.com/en_uk/read/brain-zaps-sleep-paralysis-mdma-ecstasy?utm_source=vicefbuk