curcumin + fluoxetine

Curcumin + fluoxetine is a combination of two agents—curcumin, the principal active component of the spice turmeric (Curcuma longa), and fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. This combination has been investigated for its potential synergistic effects in treating major depressive disorder (MDD). Curcumin exhibits antidepressant-like activity in animal models, possibly through modulation of monoaminergic neurotransmission, anti-inflammatory effects via reduction of proinflammatory cytokines, enhancement of neurogenesis in the hippocampus, and upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)[1][4][5][6][8]. Fluoxetine acts primarily by inhibiting serotonin reuptake at synaptic clefts. Clinical studies suggest that while both agents individually have antidepressant effects comparable to each other and to standard therapy with imipramine or SSRIs alone[1][4][5], their combination may increase response rates but does not significantly enhance efficacy over monotherapy[1][4]. The safety profile appears favorable; however, moderate drug interaction risk exists due to possible pharmacodynamic interactions such as increased bleeding risk when combined[2][7].

Other names

curcumin and fluoxetineturmeric and fluoxetine