L-methylfolate + selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

L-methylfolate + selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is a combination therapy used for the adjunctive management of major depressive disorder (MDD). L-methylfolate (marketed by Pamlab, Inc. as Deplin) is the biologically active form of folate that crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a trimonoamine modulator. It enhances the synthesis of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine by serving as a critical cofactor for the enzymes tryptophan hydroxylase and tyrosine hydroxylase. When combined with an SSRI, which prevents the reuptake of serotonin at the synaptic cleft, the combination provides a synergistic effect to improve depressive symptoms. This approach is particularly indicated for patients who have an inadequate response to standard antidepressant monotherapy, often due to metabolic deficiencies in folate processing or MTHFR polymorphisms.

Brand names

Deplin

Other names

L-methylfolate + SSRI5-MTHF + SSRIlevomefolic acid + SSRI