Question:

I take lots of inhalers and have just tried Singulair. How long does it take to start working?

When I was in the worst of the year-long attack I had, I felt the effects of Singulair immediately. Now I wonder whether it’s working at all, but it must be because I get worse if I miss taking it.

Response:

I take lots of inhalers and have just tried Singulair. How long does it take to start working? It doesn’t seem to do anything. It is always hard for me to tell what works since I run into triggers off and on. With that and delayed reactions, it is hard to play detective and tell what is due to what. Thanks for the help.

I found it worked within the first few days.  But it appears to be effect for only 2/3 of the people taking it.  You may be in the 1/3. Check with your allergist.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I started it on Tuesday of this week and my experience is it worked almost immediately. My wife said I slept so well…no coughing and no snoring either ( I have sleep apnea….not using my Bi-PAP now because of the 4-5 weeks I’ve had lung problems). She said I hardly moved all night long. YMMV….this is just my experience   Wow! Me too! I had been using my Proventil inhaler regularly along with Serevent. The Dr. put me back on Flovent and added Singulair. I haven’t needed the Proventil even once since then. Since I believe the Flovent takes some time to start working I’m convinced that the Singulair did the job. I’m not 100% better yet – my lungs still hurt when I take a deep breath. But I’m very much improved! Debi

Singulair is practically my god…within 24 hours I felt a *huge* effect. I now use proventil as a rescue inhaler maybe once a week, as opposed to the once/twice/even three times a day I used to have to use it. —  Karen Ingraffea  "I might be a coward; I’m afraid of what I might find out…" -(The Mighty Mighty Bosstones) The Impression That I Get "All things being equal, you lose." -Anon

Response:

I started it on Tuesday of this week and my experience is it worked almost immediately. My wife said I slept so well…no coughing and no snoring either ( I have sleep apnea….not using my Bi-PAP now because of the 4-5 weeks I’ve had lung problems). She said I hardly moved all night long. YMMV….this is just my experience

  Wow! Me too! I had been using my Proventil inhaler regularly along with Serevent. The Dr. put me back on Flovent and added Singulair. I haven’t needed the Proventil even once since then. Since I believe the Flovent takes some time to start working I’m convinced that the Singulair did the job. I’m not 100% better yet – my lungs still hurt when I take a deep breath. But I’m very much improved! Debi

Response:

Your insert should supply this information. If not your pharmacist will tell you.

Response:

I take lots of inhalers and have just tried Singulair. How long does it take to start working? It doesn’t seem to do anything. It is always hard for me to tell what works since I run into triggers off and on. With that and delayed reactions, it is hard to play detective and tell what is due to what. Thanks for the help.

Generally, about 30 days is considered an adequate time to tell if it is or is not working. It’s a terrible responsibility – but somebody has to be the Americans.

Response:

I started it on Tuesday of this week and my experience is it worked almost immediately. My wife said I slept so well…no coughing and no snoring either ( I have sleep apnea….not using my Bi-PAP now because of the 4-5 weeks I’ve had lung problems). She said I hardly moved all night long. YMMV….this is just my experience * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

I take lots of inhalers and have just tried Singulair. How long does it take to start working? It doesn’t seem to do anything. It is always hard for me to tell what works since I run into triggers off and on. With that and delayed reactions, it is hard to play detective and tell what is due to what. Thanks for the help. Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

I hadn’t thought of iron levels being low, but I’ll suggest that he have those checked out next doc visit.  DH is 64, and as we age, not only do our appetites decrease, but also  our absorption of nutrients. Rose – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – But usually when I notice i’m bruising more, i make sure to have my iron level checked, because that is also a common problem that has the same results; probably more often in young women than men but.. who knows. my two cents. K

Response:

i was concerned about this too. i’ve been taking flovent for a few years (before that, aerobid, azmacort, etc).. i bruise very easily, i’m a big fan of arnica too. I actually ran into someone at a pharmacy who was asking about people who take flovent, and since I was there to pick mine up I spoke up. Turns out she works for glaxo-welcom selling it and hadn’t talked to a lot of people who used it. Anyways I mentioned a few side effects, such as bruising, lower bone-density, etc, that are common with steroids, and basically she said that because they are inhaled corti-costeroids and not quite the same as pill popping ones like prednisone, those kinds of effects should be pretty much negligible. Granted she does work for the company.. My own doctor was able to reduce my Flovent when I went in asking about bruising; i’d had a particularly clumsy week.. But usually when I notice i’m bruising more, i make sure to have my iron level checked, because that is also a common problem that has the same results; probably more often in young women than men but.. who knows. my two cents. K – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi. Dh uses Flovent and other inhalers, and they do contain steroids, which does cause thinning of the skin and yes, he does bruise easily.  Seems that he’s bruising more easily lately. The arnica works?  I use it and I’ll see if he will.  Thanks for the suggestion. Rose

Response:

I’ve had trouble with brusing, but i didn’t know that it was related to using flovent.  I’m on 220 one puff twice a day (it was 2 puffs 2x daily, but they are trying to decrease it, so far no probs).  I always thought it was something wrong with me.  wow.  kris

I don’t know why docs don’t mention this to patients since it can be common esp. with FLovent. Just wait until it happens, I guess. Some docs may not even know about Arnica. But they should.

Response:

I use Flovent inhaler – 2-3 puffs twice a day. Does anyone have the bruising who use these inhalers? Supposedly thins the skin. Some spots are spontaneous  —- others – if you bump your arm are really noticeable. Large bruise type spots under the skin.  I have been using Arnica (cream or gel to rub on those spots to make them go away faster). It helps — but I don’t like these spots on my arms. Side effects of MDI inhalers can be minimized by using a spacer, such as an Aerochamber. Cuts side effects by factor of 2. Also advisable to rinse, gargle, spit out, after inhaling.

I have used a spacer ever since I started on Flovent – over a year ago. (And rinse and gargle really good.)

Response:

Do you also take at least one aspirin per day?  I have been using Flovent for several years, but not until I was put on an asprin regimen did I get the bruise spots.  It is the apirin that thins the blood. Israel Weber

No, no aspirin. The Flovent thins the –skin.

Response:

What is Arnica, and where do you get it? I am on Flovent and also easily bruised. The least little tap leaves a mark. If I bump into something, I really have some black and blue marks.

I get it at an organic food store. But I would imagine maybe you could get it at some health food stores — or check your local drugfood store. It comes in gel and cream. It DOES work. Takes a few days but the color of the bruise lightens and eventually is gone. I have more on my wrists than anywhere.

Response:

I use Flovent inhaler – 2-3 puffs twice a day. Does anyone have the bruising who use these inhalers? Supposedly thins the skin. Some spots are spontaneous  —- others – if you bump your arm are really noticeable. Large bruise type spots under the skin.  I have been using Arnica (cream or gel to rub on those spots to make them go away faster). It helps — but I don’t like these spots on my arms.

Side effects of MDI inhalers can be minimized by using a spacer, such as an Aerochamber. Cuts side effects by factor of 2. Also advisable to rinse, gargle, spit out, after inhaling. You might also try a different steroid, such as the Pulmicort Turbuhaler [my favorite] Ellis

Response:

I use Flovent inhaler – 2-3 puffs twice a day. Does anyone have the bruising who use these inhalers? Supposedly thins the skin. Some spots are spontaneous  —- others – if you bump your arm are really noticeable. Large bruise type spots under the skin.

Hello, I use Flovent 220 one puff two times daily and I bruise horribly.  I wake up with small round bruises and if I bump into something the resultant bruise is really large and painful.  Gross.  I can’t do without the Flovent, tho. So, guess it’s a trade-off. I wish, wish, wish someone would come up with an inhaled anti-inflammatory or like drug with no side effects like bruising, weight gain and the like. It would be nice to shed the 35 pounds I’ve put on since being diagnosed with asthma and taking all the meds. Patrice

Response:

I’ve had trouble with brusing, but i didn’t know that it was related to using flovent.  I’m on 220 one puff twice a day (it was 2 puffs 2x daily, but they are trying to decrease it, so far no probs).  I always thought it was something wrong with me.  wow.  kris

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I use Flovent inhaler – 2-3 puffs twice a day. Does anyone have the bruising who use these inhalers? Supposedly thins the skin. Some spots are spontaneous  —- others – if you bump your arm are really noticeable. Large bruise type spots under the skin. Hello, I use Flovent 220 one puff two times daily and I bruise horribly.  I wake up with small round bruises and if I bump into something the resultant bruise is really large and painful.  Gross.  I can’t do without the Flovent, tho. So, guess it’s a trade-off. I wish, wish, wish someone would come up with an inhaled anti-inflammatory or like drug with no side effects like bruising, weight gain and the like. It would be nice to shed the 35 pounds I’ve put on since being diagnosed with asthma and taking all the meds. Patrice

Response:

The light and dark sides of Arnica….. Light:  http://www.kcweb.com/herb/arnica.htm Dark: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/poison/Arnicmo.htm

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What is Arnica, and where do you get it? I am on Flovent and also easily bruised. The least little tap leaves a mark. If I bump into something, I really have some black and blue marks. I use Flovent inhaler – 2-3 puffs twice a day. Does anyone have the bruising who use these inhalers? Supposedly thins the skin. Some spots are spontaneous  —- others – if you bump your arm are really noticeable. Large bruise type spots under the skin.  I have been using Arnica (cream or gel to rub on those spots to make them go away faster). It helps — but I don’t like these spots on my arms. remove nospam to email

Response:

What is Arnica, and where do you get it? I am on Flovent and also easily bruised. The least little tap leaves a mark. If I bump into something, I really have some black and blue marks.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I use Flovent inhaler – 2-3 puffs twice a day. Does anyone have the bruising who use these inhalers? Supposedly thins the skin. Some spots are spontaneous  —- others – if you bump your arm are really noticeable. Large bruise type spots under the skin.  I have been using Arnica (cream or gel to rub on those spots to make them go away faster). It helps — but I don’t like these spots on my arms. remove nospam to email

Response:

I use Flovent inhaler – 2-3 puffs twice a day. Does anyone have the bruising who use these inhalers? Supposedly thins the skin. Some spots are spontaneous  —- others – if you bump your arm are really noticeable. Large bruise type spots under the skin.  I have been using Arnica (cream or gel to rub on those spots to make them go away faster). It helps — but I don’t like these spots on my arms. remove nospam to email

Response:

Hi. Dh uses Flovent and other inhalers, and they do contain steroids, which does cause thinning of the skin and yes, he does bruise easily.  Seems that he’s bruising more easily lately. The arnica works?  I use it and I’ll see if he will.  Thanks for the suggestion. Rose

Response:

(gaetz) writes: I use Flovent inhaler – 2-3 puffs twice a day. Does anyone have the bruising who use these inhalers? Supposedly thins the skin. Some spots are spontaneous  —- others – if you bump your arm are really noticeable. Large bruise type spots under the skin.  I have been using Arnica (cream or gel to rub on those spots to make them go away faster). It helps — but I don’t like these spots on my arms.

Do you also take at least one aspirin per day?  I have been using Flovent for several years, but not until I was put on an asprin regimen did I get the bruise spots.  It is the apirin that thins the blood. Israel Weber

Response:

Question:

We’ve done it, traded in the fifth wheel for a park model.  The dealer says he cannot find a source for a 150 gallon holding tank to put under it.  He used to get them for about $150.  Another dealer we are not enamored of, (where we did not buy the park model) says he can sell us one for $750, which seems completely ridiculous.  There mustbe someplace to get a reasonable price on a 150 gallon holding tank, anybody aware of where that might be? Romeo Raabe in Green Bay, WI

Response:

Check with El Monte Plastics, El Monte, California.  Or look up Northernhydraulics.com as I believe they have generic tanks at a reasonable price.  If that does not work, try Northerntools.com Steve

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – We’ve done it, traded in the fifth wheel for a park model.  The dealer says he cannot find a source for a 150 gallon holding tank to put under it.  He used to get them for about $150.  Another dealer we are not enamored of, (where we did not buy the park model) says he can sell us one for $750, which seems completely ridiculous.  There mustbe someplace to get a reasonable price on a 150 gallon holding tank, anybody aware of where that might be? Romeo Raabe in Green Bay, WI

Response:

Question:

As a recently diagnosed asthmatic, who is happy that the medications work for her, I am wondering about the cost of the inhalers.  I am using Proventil and Flovent.  What is the approximate cost of a canister of these medications, and is there any place that is preferable to order them from? I generally get my medications from AARP as I do a lot of traveling (no choice) and they can mail them to me where ever I am…  but the cost of these meds has me a bit frightened.  Not being able to breathe has me a bit frightened, too, at times! Mary

Response:

I don’t know the cost of Proventil as I use generic albuterol.  Flovent is about 75 USD per canister.  I use two canisters a month when I’m taking 4 puffs x2 day.  That’s a lot of money, yes, but I sorta have this thing about breathing, I like it.   I’m lucky in that I have prescription coverage that allows me to mail order my medications in 90 day supplies for only a co-pay of 20.00 for name brand drugs or 7.00 for generic.  It’s just the Walgreen’s down in Florida that they use and Walgreen’s bills my insurance company. Yeah, it can get expensive.  My doc and I sat down and figured up what it would cost me out of pocket for all the meds I take each month.  It would cover the payment on a new Porche.  <sigh Loki – who loves fast cars… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As a recently diagnosed asthmatic, who is happy that the medications work for her, I am wondering about the cost of the inhalers.  I am using Proventil and Flovent.  What is the approximate cost of a canister of these medications, and is there any place that is preferable to order them from? I generally get my medications from AARP as I do a lot of traveling (no choice) and they can mail them to me where ever I am…  but the cost of these meds has me a bit frightened.  Not being able to breathe has me a bit frightened, too, at times! Mary

Response:

Mary Lu, can you use Express Scripts? They are at 1-800-696-3760.  They are another "mail" pharmacy, and I’ve found them very reasonable.  Admittedly, I am getting the prices set for my HMO, and am being sent several refills at once (only maintenance meds qualify, but your drugs WOULD be maintenance), but I only pay about $5/pop for Ventolin. Be sure to ask your doctor to specify the generic, which at least can be done for the Proventil. I’ll bet if you call them, they’ll give you a price over the phone. Kiwi Carlisle – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As a recently diagnosed asthmatic, who is happy that the medications work for her, I am wondering about the cost of the inhalers.  I am using Proventil and Flovent.  What is the approximate cost of a canister of these medications, and is there any place that is preferable to order them from? I generally get my medications from AARP as I do a lot of traveling (no choice) and they can mail them to me where ever I am…  but the cost of these meds has me a bit frightened.  Not being able to breathe has me a bit frightened, too, at times! Mary

Response:

My last canister of Flovent 110 retailed for $54.98.  I don’t think where you get them matters too much, unless your insurance cares.  :) janet – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As a recently diagnosed asthmatic, who is happy that the medications work for her, I am wondering about the cost of the inhalers.  I am using Proventil and Flovent.  What is the approximate cost of a canister of these medications, and is there any place that is preferable to order them from? I generally get my medications from AARP as I do a lot of traveling (no choice) and they can mail them to me where ever I am…  but the cost of these meds has me a bit frightened.  Not being able to breathe has me a bit frightened, too, at times! Mary

Response:

Question:

I tried homeopathic meds on myself but would not try them on my son. Kids really are too little to be messing with.  I know that you are searching for answers but there really are none.  The best advice I can give is to educate yourself on the disease and the medications or therapies used, this way you can be informed to make the best decisions for your child. nicamrem —Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.—

Response:

There are enough tombs,you can look. good willing is not good doing. Lothar

Response:

Neeraj, I face the same issue with my 3 year old daughter.  What really helps is avoiding any all all things that could trigger her asthma.  Also, use preventive medications if the doctor prescibes some.  Before 3 months my daughter went throught the allergy tests and now we know that my daughter is allergic to milk, dust mites, mold and mild dew.  We used to use the humidifier very often, now we don’t. People tell us that kids usually grow out of this, however, our doctor said that with each attack of asthma the chances of her growing out of it decreases.  That is the very reason we try our very best to avoid things that could trigger asthma. I know what you are going through.  Try your best and have faith in God. Chetan – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi , I am wondering whether asthma is common among the childern in US. My 2 year old daughter has been dignosed with asthma and there is really no cure has been advised so far. Except temp relief by using breathing machine. I want to know if this is true that there is really no cure of the problem. Has anyone tried any Homeopathic Madicine ? Please advise.

Response:

Hi , I am wondering whether asthma is common among the childern in US. My 2 year old daughter has been dignosed with asthma and there is really no cure has been advised so far. Except temp relief by using breathing machine. I want to know if this is true that there is really no cure of the problem.

Yes, asthma is common; 10-20% of children seem to have it.  No, there isn’t an cure . . . just treatments. Has anyone tried any Homeopathic Madicine ?

Not anyone who actually wanted their child to survive to adulthood and understood the scientific fallacies behind homeopathy; IOW, this is a BAD idea. Chris Owens

Response:

I am wondering whether asthma is common among the childern in US. My 2 year old daughter has been dignosed with asthma and there is really no cure has been advised so far. Except temp relief by using breathing machine. I want to know if this is true that there is really no cure of the problem. Has anyone tried any Homeopathic Madicine ? Please advise.

Asthma is diagnosed using breathing tests. In toddlers, where breathing tests can’t be administered, the condition is often called RAD (reactive airways disease). As toddlers grow, they often outgrow the condition as their airways become larger. The treatment is inhaled albuterol for short term relief (and rescue), inhaled preventor meds like cromolyn or steroids for long term relief. Asthma is a chronic disease which needs ongoing drugs. There is no ‘cure’ but in some cases the syptoms resolve for a period of time. For Moderate to Severe cases in infants and toddlers, it’s advisable to see a pediatric allergist. Minimizing allergens and irritants in the environment is important. Homeopathy involves the use of very dilute drugs; not effective for asthma (unless contaminated with steroids). Link: http://www.aaaai.org/public/publicedmat/tips/tip20.html CHILDHOOD ASTHMA (AAAAI) Excerpt: "Approximately 10% of children have symptoms consistent with  asthma. Correct diagnosis and management of childhood asthma  requires an asthma and allergy specialist who recognizes the  uniqueness of childhood asthma, compared to asthma which  begins in adulthood." Ellis

Response:

Hi , I am wondering whether asthma is common among the childern in US. My 2 year old daughter has been dignosed with asthma and there is really no cure has been advised so far. Except temp relief by using breathing machine. I want to know if this is true that there is really no cure of the problem.

The most important thing you can remember is that There Is No Cure For Asthma.  Anybody who claims otherwise is trying to defraud you. Has anyone tried any Homeopathic Madicine ?

Try distilled water – it is the same stuff.  And will probably do more good as you will drink more of it. Another thing to consider is that statistically, asthmatics who use ‘alternative’ medicine have twice the hospitalization and death rates as those who do not. "The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has limits." Einstein

Response:

Hi , I am wondering whether asthma is common among the childern in US. My 2 year old daughter has been dignosed with asthma and there is really no cure has been advised so far. Except temp relief by using breathing machine. I want to know if this is true that there is really no cure of the problem. Has anyone tried any Homeopathic Madicine ? Please advise.

Response:

My son is 6, has had asthma for 6 years.  I have gone to many doctors and there is no cure but there are methods to keep it under control.  He’s on inhaled steroids, Pulmicort and on Singulair, everyday.  When he breaks through he goes on ventolin and atrovent, and sometimes prednisone.  Right now the treatment is prevention but I keep the hope there might be a cure. Good Luck Gina

Response:

Question:

How long have you been taking the Zoloft?  And are you taking anything else (such as Xanax)?  I had some of that early on, but I truly believe that it is the interim feeling you get when the Zoloft is fighting anxiety.  In other words, instead of feeling anxious, you feel cloudy. At least that is my experience, because the longer I’ve been on Zoloft and the less often I have felt anxious, the less I have had this problem.  Also, occasionally, when I’ve taken a Xanax for an extra bad day, I feel this way when I come off of it.  Interesting. Best, Charly

I’ve been taking Zoloft for 6 months, and I don’t take anything else…I hardly have any anxiety any more, but this spaciness is freaking me out… Thanks Mandy

Response:

I’ve been on Zoloft for almost six months now, and these feelings started around the same time…..it’s so weird!

Yes, it is. What does your doctor say? Maybe you could try either adding a benzo or switching to another SSRI? Philip (don’t know really) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – MandySince when have you been taking Zoloft? As a rule dissociation is not a SSRI side effect but nothing is impossible. I have found a benzo helps me with dissociative feelings and perceptions. YMMV. Philip

Response:

Hummingbird says

I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

hi mandy. I thought that was just of the effects of the anxiety/panic….jeeeezzzz! I don’t take Zoloft (but I like the big Z) – - though I know the "unreality" feeling. Hope your meds don’t cause that! Maybe some adjusting is needed by the doc….hmmm? -take care & good luck!! Z p.s. I usually feel like I’m some bizarre character in a Terry Gilliam movie if ya know what I mean.

Response:

I’ve been on Zoloft for almost six months now, and these feelings started around the same time…..it’s so weird! MandySince when have you been taking Zoloft? As a rule dissociation is not a SSRI – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -side effect but nothing is impossible. I have found a benzo helps me with dissociative feelings and perceptions. YMMV. Philip

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no-archive:yes I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

How long have you been taking the Zoloft?  And are you taking anything else (such as Xanax)?  I had some of that early on, but I truly believe that it is the interim feeling you get when the Zoloft is fighting anxiety.  In other words, instead of feeling anxious, you feel cloudy. At least that is my experience, because the longer I’ve been on Zoloft and the less often I have felt anxious, the less I have had this problem.  Also, occasionally, when I’ve taken a Xanax for an extra bad day, I feel this way when I come off of it.  Interesting. Best, Charly

Response:

I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP!

Dear Mandy, Has this symptom only been around since being on zoloft? Your comment *I can`t feel some things*, sounds like you are numb or apathetic. This seems to happen to some people while they are on anti-depressants. I urge you to talk to your doctor about this, perhaps a med change is in order. Take care. Jackie

Response:

I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

Zoloft can cause feelings of unreality (called depersonalization/derealization), *especially* if your dose has been titrated upwards too rapidly. I’d check with your doc. You may need a  reduction in you Zoloft dose. Also benzos have been quite effective in relieving feelings of unreality I have had. Even in small dosage, such as Xanax 0.25 mg four times per day. Chip Before you buy.

Response:

.It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….

this is different qualitatively then dissociation where you feel outside yourself-one is a ramping down of emotion the other a ramping up-when we dissociate we are purposly excluding ourselves from the present moment to reduce sensory input as a defense an exhaustion-the inability to feel emotions as acutely or as intensly is and can be a side effect of any ad med as they can tend to in some reduce appropriate anxieties as well as reduce specific spontaneous emotional responses-they get slowed down which is how these drugs work to reduce some emotional disturbances-so you may have to clarify what it is you actualy are experiencing LM

Response:

I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

Since when have you been taking Zoloft? As a rule dissociation is not a SSRI side effect but nothing is impossible. I have found a benzo helps me with dissociative feelings and perceptions. YMMV. Philip

Response:

I find most meditations make me feel that way. I have come to know it is all part of my symptoms of my anxiety disorder. I like to do journalling and meditation to get in touch with my feelings. It definately is unpleasant…I go in and out of unreality feelings and spaceyness quite frequently, especially when I go for walks. I feel like I’m not real and the world around me seems distant. Typical of someone from a traumatic background. Disassociation….I love those moments of clarity much better. I do not suffer as bad as I did, so I keep the hope. (((((HUGS))))) Debbie

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

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I posted a while ago about my feelings of unreality….I was wondering if maybe it is partly caused by the Zoloft….I feel like I’m just playing the part or something…It really scares me sometimes that I can’t FEEL some things….I take 200 mg/day…Does anybody know if Zoloft can cause these feelings?  I don’t understand why I feel this way.  It’s almost a constant thing now….I want to feel alive, but I just feel like nothing is real…Like I’m playing a part in some generic B movie or something….HELP! Mandy

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Question:

Lamictal

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Worn_Out,  you seem to be feeling a little better, are you?  hopefully  

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I am doing better.  My wife says I am talking more & I have started kidding with my 24 year old daughter, again.  I think the tofranil is helping & I am on my third week on testosterone injections. I have decided that bi-polar disorder is forever.  I woke up this morning in very bad shape, but have gotten over it.  Somehow we must all manage to survive because the bad times come and go and if things are bad now, they WILL get better. Thanks Worn_Out,  you seem to be feeling a little better, are you? hopefully

Before you buy.

Response:

What % of manic depressives commit suicide?

I have heard that one in five commit suicide, but I wouldn’t swear by it. I hope you find a treatment that works for you. The future brings us the hope of new drugs and new treatments. Web Page at: www.robertpo.com For email replies remove the ****

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What % of manic depressives commit suicide? I have heard that one in five commit suicide, but I wouldn’t swear by it. I hope you find a treatment that works for you. The future brings us the hope of new drugs and new treatments. Web Page at: www.robertpo.com For email replies remove the ****

I’ve seen studies that showed that 1 in 5 bipolars who refused treatment committed suicide. But…these were bipolars sick enough that they had been hospitalized, that’s where they were found for the study. Also, it stands to reason that those who refuse treatment are sicker with more personality problems than average. Also, these were people who were hospitalized in public hospitals, which again indicates that they were sicker…someone in a private hospital probably has been able to work until recently, and hasn’t alienated or shoved away family and friends yet. Still, taking your meds and working with your doctor is the best way to keep from getting worse…and worse can be very, very bad.

Response:

Paxil worked for me. Not to high though-Reached an even – level of comfort. It sounds like you have to find a MD (preferably, a psychopharmacologist) who knows how to mix different combinations of drugs. Don’t lose hope, though.  If you do you start asking questions about suicide, and you might have to live it all again in the next life.  At this point, paying for drugs is a bigger problem for the long haul than taking them.  Any advice? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After 13 years with BiPolar Disorder I have yet to find effective treatment for its depression. What is the most effective treatment for BiPolar Depression? What % of manic depressives commit suicide? Before you buy.

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At this point, paying for drugs is a bigger problem for the long haul than taking them.  Any advice?

I have been started on Tofranil/Imipramine and my pharmacy dispensed it in its generic form.  Instead of paying a copay of $7.00 for the name brand I pay $2.00 for the generic.  The book, "The Essential Guide to Psychiatric Drugs", shows that the name brand would be $.62/pill and the generic would be $.05/pill (the book was published in 1990). If this is still true, a great deal can be saved by buying generic, if possible. The book, "The Essential Guide to Psychiatric Drugs", by Jack M. Gorman, MD. is the best help in this area that I have found.  If you can find a recent edition, I highly reccomend it. Good luck! Before you buy.

Response:

Drop trou Nihil  You know you get a spanking for saying bad stuff like that. Bend over,  ten whacks with the leather strap. 1   *[SMACK]*      ( oouch) 2   *[WACK]*         (stop) 3   *[CRACK]*        ( I take it back,  please stop) Let those warm yer buns a while,  I’ll fix you a few fresh ones in a bit. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – x-no-archive: yes After 13 years with BiPolar Disorder I have yet to find effective treatment for its depression. What is the most effective treatment for BiPolar Depression? Personally, I think that Doctor Kevorkian, whom I consider to be a Saint, has the best treatment.

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Everyone is different.  Tell me what you’ve tried, kay?  Also, let me know what your additional symptoms are, etc.  Have you had partial relief with certain drugs? There may be treatments that are better for BPI and treatments that are better for BPII.  A lot of people take different drug cocktails, as I’m sure you know.  A friend of mine is on lithium AND neurontin, among other things. I’ve been on lots of diff. stuff simultaneously: buspar, trazodone, klonopin, prozac, lithium, depakote, and neurontin are the bulk of the things I’ve been on.  Are you taking an antidepressant and a mood stabilizer? -bpkittycat – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After 13 years with BiPolar Disorder I have yet to find effective treatment for its depression. What is the most effective treatment for BiPolar Depression? What % of manic depressives commit suicide? Before you buy.

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I am now on Tofranil and Lithobid. I have had about 35 ECT treatments (unilateral and bilateral). I have been on: Xanax Elavil Dexedrine Anafranil Welbutrin Buspar Tegretol Librium Valium Effexor Prozac Tofranil Librium Eskalith Ritalin Nardil Serzone Pamelor Parnate Paxil Prozac Risperdal Zoloft Xanax Thyroid Hormone Testosterone I appreciate your interest. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Everyone is different.  Tell me what you’ve tried, kay?  Also, let me know what your additional symptoms are, etc.  Have you had partial relief with certain drugs? There may be treatments that are better for BPI and treatments that are better for BPII.  A lot of people take different drug cocktails, as I’m sure you know.  A friend of mine is on lithium AND neurontin, among other things. I’ve been on lots of diff. stuff simultaneously: buspar, trazodone, klonopin, prozac, lithium, depakote, and neurontin are the bulk of the things I’ve been on.  Are you taking an antidepressant and a mood stabilizer? -bpkittycat

Before you buy.

Response:

Worn Out- I can see why you are frustrated I’ve forgotten what Tofranil is for.  Antipsychotic?  Antidepressant?  MAOI or Tricyclic? What symptoms do you have the most trouble with?  I seem to be depressed a lot, and have had depression for most of my life, and "only" a few major manic episodes.  I suffer from migraines as well, and hope that the neurontin that I’ve just started will help in preventing the attacks (mania and migraine). I am wondering what you have tried and what you know about diet and how it affects mood.  I would suggest, if you are not already doing so, to severely cut down on all carbohydrates, have lots of protein, and consume 3T of flax seed oil every day.  Always use olive oil when you can, too (like in salad dressings, for dipping bread in, etc.). These new drugs for seizures are supposed to work for many treatment-resistant patients.  check out the Neurontin facts posted earlier today if you haven’t already. Good luck, and I hope you get some good advice and new ideas from others… -bpkittycat – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am now on Tofranil and Lithobid. I have had about 35 ECT treatments (unilateral and bilateral). I have been on: Xanax Elavil Dexedrine Anafranil Welbutrin Buspar Tegretol Librium Valium Effexor Prozac Tofranil Librium Eskalith Ritalin Nardil Serzone Pamelor Parnate Paxil Prozac Risperdal Zoloft Xanax Thyroid Hormone Testosterone I appreciate your interest. Everyone is different.  Tell me what you’ve tried, kay?  Also, let me know what your additional symptoms are, etc.  Have you had partial relief with certain drugs? There may be treatments that are better for BPI and treatments that are better for BPII.  A lot of people take different drug cocktails, as I’m sure you know.  A friend of mine is on lithium AND neurontin, among other things. I’ve been on lots of diff. stuff simultaneously: buspar, trazodone, klonopin, prozac, lithium, depakote, and neurontin are the bulk of the things I’ve been on.  Are you taking an antidepressant and a mood stabilizer? -bpkittycat Before you buy.

Response:

After 13 years with BiPolar Disorder I have yet to find effective treatment for its depression. What is the most effective treatment for BiPolar Depression? What % of manic depressives commit suicide? Before you buy.

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re: question #1: that’s the question, all right re: question #2: between 15 & 20% (some confusion, apparently, about whether this means *all* people with bipolar or just the untreated ones). What about the undiagnosed ones, then? I interpolate all this to indicate that the figure refers to all bipolars. — Deep – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After 13 years with BiPolar Disorder I have yet to find effective treatment for its depression. What is the most effective treatment for BiPolar Depression? What % of manic depressives commit suicide? Before you buy.

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: After 13 years with BiPolar Disorder I have yet to find effective : treatment for its depression. : : What is the most effective treatment for BiPolar Depression?    There is no most effective treatment, it varies with the    circumstances and individual.  Passage of time usually    brings with it some relief of symptoms. : : What % of manic depressives commit suicide?   It is higher for untreated sufferers……15-20% if I recall   correctly.   nm : : : Before you buy. :

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Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve posted on here several times over the last few months.  I’m having a hard time feeling a ‘part off.’  No one is really reaching out to me. That’s not a criticism people, just a feeling.  I could use some support.  I’m tied of being the sarcastic know-it-all. Aware1, Arethusa, vegboy, Robert Mass, Kramer, Dreamcatcher, Jill, Mary Beth, Chirmia, to name a few.  I’ ve talked to you in the past.  I could use just a ‘Hello’ from you know. Thanks… i read all your posts.  i don’t know why.  your name, maybe. it’s a good, strong name.  i’ve never thought of you as a sarcastic know-it-all.  i don’t really know where you get that idea. anyway, hello, John.  i hope you have a lovely christmas.  :) denise

God, I sound like I’m whining, don’t I?  Thanks Denise.  I appreciate the compliment very much. — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve posted on here several times over the last few months.  I’m having a hard time feeling a ‘part off.’  No one is really reaching out to me. <Mary Beth reaches out her arm as far as she can That’s not a criticism people, just a feeling.  I could use some support.  I’m tied of being the sarcastic know-it-all. No-one knows it all. If they did, they would be boring. So, what’s up? How can I support you? Would you like to talk about something? Mary Beth

Hi Mary Beth.  I think I love you most of all.  You know what I’m really afraid of?  Remember the movie ‘Awakenings?’  I feel very good now, when I’m not taking handfuls of klonopin.  I’m afraid this is a ‘chemical window’ of happiness that will soon close, and I will go back to being the way I was.  I just refuse to live that way, especially since I know what it fees like now to be happy, confident, and not afraid of bridges, people, or just going outside. I won’t accept life as it was before, and that is scary.  I have been through a couple of med changes.  First effexor, which my pdoc and I ran up to 375 mg. a day.  That made me house bound and I had to hospitalized again.  The a got a new Dr and we did Zoloft, wellbutrin, buspar, inostital, kava kava.  I didn’t like the zoloft, so I am back on just 225 mg of effexor and 300 mg of wellbutrin.  I fell much better when I don’t take the klonopin, but my Dr insists I take 1 .5 in the morning and 1 .5 at night.  Fuck him, I just haven’t been taking it, until this weekend, when I binged on it.  I don’t even like the high.  It’s not like the valiums of hold. PS.  I have 1 year sober (again) on 12/14/99.  AD’s are my only hope, as I have had time before. Thanks for asking.  How about you? — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, I read you.  You have been seen and heard! I’ve posted on here several times over the last few months.  I’m having a hard time feeling a ‘part off.’  No one is really reaching out to me. That’s not a criticism people, just a feeling.  I could use some support.  I’m tied of being the sarcastic know-it-all. Aware1, Arethusa, vegboy, Robert Mass, Kramer, Dreamcatcher, Jill, Mary Beth, Chirmia, to name a few.  I’ ve talked to you in the past.  I could use just a ‘Hello’ from you know. Thanks… — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

Thanks Amy.  Sometimes that’s all it takes. — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

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No problem, John. Good to see you. —                     _    bear         _.-’ )                (_ . ‘ __                  __^/` _)                .-’_                   (_.’    ’–.                    /_ /`-._/                   (__/ email: The_bearster_at_aol_dot_com

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Today, I fighting through that benzodiazeoine hangover, but I don’t want anymore.  I think I should throw them away.

Nooo, send them to me, I’ll pay the postage even!!! Thanks for asking.  How are you doing?

You’ve got a lot on your plate right now, John. Good for you for keeping your head above water. Other than a nasty persistent infection, I feel great, too. ) — Toto… I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore.

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Hi Mary Beth.  I think I love you most of all.

Wow, you just earned some serious brownie points there. You know what I’m really afraid of?  Remember the movie ‘Awakenings?’  I feel very good now, when I’m not taking handfuls of klonopin.  I’m afraid this is a ‘chemical window’ of happiness that will soon close, and I will go back to being the way I was.

I do understand. The movie "Awakenings" is my favorite movie as I have talked about in other movie threads here. I think it’s because I relate to it to a point. I have good times and times I just "shut down." As for your meds and your choice not to take the Klonopin. That’s YOUR right and if you feel it isn’t helping, don’t take it. Put your foot down and see what your doctor says. I’ve done that more than once myself. PS.  I have 1 year sober (again) on 12/14/99.  AD’s are my only hope, as I have had time before. Thanks for asking.  How about you?

Congratulations. I am fine, thanks for asking. Mary Beth p’ed and e’d

Response:

Would a hi instead of a hello do, John?  :o) What’s up? How was your day? How are you surviving the holidays? Aware1 — Toto… I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore.

Yes, it would.  The last couple of week’s have been great.  I stopped taking the klonopin because I though it was working against the effexor/wellbutrin.  I kept them in the fridge and on Friday night, I just thought it would be fun to take a bunch this weekend.  I barely remember writing all these posts. Today, I fighting through that benzodiazeoine hangover, but I don’t want anymore.  I think I should throw them away. This time last year I was in a hotel room with a gun to my head.  On the 14th, I checked (well, I was baker acted) into a hospital and diagnosed with depression.  That gave me effexor.  I’m convinced it saved my like.  I have been feeling great.  So, why the self-destrucive binge on the klonopin? My parents are both in a nursing home in Indiana.  I had to put both of there there last November. I write computer software.  I am a genius.  Wily coyote, super genius. I’m good at work.  The rest of my life is a confusing jumble of emotional chaos. Thanks for asking.  How are you doing? — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello John.  I’m not sure why you feel left out or isolated, but I can understand those feelings. Hope you’re feeling better soon. best wishes, —                     _    bear         _.-’ )                (_ . ‘ __                  __^/` _)                .-’_                   (_.’    ’–.                    /_ /`-._/                   (__/ email: The_bearster_at_aol_dot_com That was nice.  Sort of like a form letter, but a nice effort. — ***** Perhaps you could post a description of what you expect to see in a "reaching out" post. —                     _    bear         _.-’ )                (_ . ‘ __                  __^/` _)                .-’_                   (_.’    ’–.                    /_ /`-._/                   (__/ email: The_bearster_at_aol_dot_com

Thanks Bear.  That was perfectly OK.  Sorry for being a smart-ass. Love your Bear… — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

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Hello, I read you.  You have been seen and heard! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve posted on here several times over the last few months.  I’m having a hard time feeling a ‘part off.’  No one is really reaching out to me. That’s not a criticism people, just a feeling.  I could use some support.  I’m tied of being the sarcastic know-it-all. Aware1, Arethusa, vegboy, Robert Mass, Kramer, Dreamcatcher, Jill, Mary Beth, Chirmia, to name a few.  I’ ve talked to you in the past.  I could use just a ‘Hello’ from you know. Thanks… — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

Response:

I’ve posted on here several times over the last few months.  I’m having a hard time feeling a ‘part off.’  No one is really reaching out to me.

<Mary Beth reaches out her arm as far as she can That’s not a criticism people, just a feeling.  I could use some support.  I’m tied of being the sarcastic know-it-all.

No-one knows it all. If they did, they would be boring. So, what’s up? How can I support you? Would you like to talk about something? Mary Beth

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Would a hi instead of a hello do, John?  :o) What’s up? How was your day? How are you surviving the holidays? Aware1 — Toto… I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello John.  I’m not sure why you feel left out or isolated, but I can understand those feelings. Hope you’re feeling better soon. best wishes, —                     _    bear         _.-’ )                (_ . ‘ __                  __^/` _)                .-’_                   (_.’    ’–.                    /_ /`-._/                   (__/ email: The_bearster_at_aol_dot_com That was nice.  Sort of like a form letter, but a nice effort. —

***** Perhaps you could post a description of what you expect to see in a "reaching out" post. —                     _    bear         _.-’ )                (_ . ‘ __                  __^/` _)                .-’_                   (_.’    ’–.                    /_ /`-._/                   (__/ email: The_bearster_at_aol_dot_com

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello John.  I’m not sure why you feel left out or isolated, but I can understand those feelings. Hope you’re feeling better soon. best wishes, —                     _    bear         _.-’ )                (_ . ‘ __                  __^/` _)                .-’_                   (_.’    ’–.                    /_ /`-._/                   (__/ email: The_bearster_at_aol_dot_com

That was nice.  Sort of like a form letter, but a nice effort. — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

Response:

Hello John.  I’m not sure why you feel left out or isolated, but I can understand those feelings. Hope you’re feeling better soon. best wishes, —                     _    bear         _.-’ )                (_ . ‘ __                  __^/` _)                .-’_                   (_.’    ’–.                    /_ /`-._/                   (__/ email: The_bearster_at_aol_dot_com

Response:

I’ve posted on here several times over the last few months.  I’m having a hard time feeling a ‘part off.’  No one is really reaching out to me. That’s not a criticism people, just a feeling.  I could use some support.  I’m tied of being the sarcastic know-it-all. Aware1, Arethusa, vegboy, Robert Mass, Kramer, Dreamcatcher, Jill, Mary Beth, Chirmia, to name a few.  I’ ve talked to you in the past.  I could use just a ‘Hello’ from you know. Thanks… — I can’t think of a single movie that couldn’t be improved by a lesbian sex scene.

Response:

Question:

    Recently I read a study on sibutramine (Meridia).  I had read several others, but not recently.  In this study patients on 5 mg lost more weight than those on placebo.  Patients taking 20 mg lost far more than those taking 5 mg or placebo.  All patients were consuming structured diets, using behavioral modification, and mild exercise.     My question is this: since the drug appears useful in weight reduction (which I guess it’d have to be, to have ever been approved) why are so many people not seeing results with it?  I know a few people have seen results, but the majority, myself included, have been disappointed.     Why would prior phen-fen use make one less likely to benefit from Meridia (which seems to be the common opinion)?  I only took Meridia for 4 weeks; I didn’t want to fork out that much money for another month if it wasn’t doing anything.  Do the effects increase with time?  The study I refer to was only a 12-week study, although none of the participants  were currently using other meds, so phen users would have been excluded from the study.     Any ideas? Adria

Response:

I’ve been on 10mg per day of Meridia for two weeks and I’ve lost 8 pounds. As a purely subjective speculation, I wonder if it may be effective for so few people because it may work on just a single cause of obesity, that being due to an out-of-whack appetite. For as long as I can remember I’ve been able to look at what most people would consider a normal sized portion of food and know before I ever start eating that my appetite won’t be satisfied until I eat two or three times that amount. This is even more of a problem with sweet and/or fatty foods than it is with things like fruits and vegetables. I also tend to think about food very frequently throughout the day and as a result eat frequent snacks. This is independent of habit, mood, emotional or physical condition or any other variable I can think of. The bottom line is I just seem to be hard-wired to overeat. The Meridia seems to have almost magically "reset" my perception of how much food is enough. I prepare small portions of relatively healthful, varied kinds of foods, and even though sometimes my stomach feels physically hungry, I can easily resist what is now a much weakened urge to snack or overeat. And although it’s a distant secondary consideration, the price of the medication is a motivating factor, too! I’d hate to be spending so much money on something that turned out to be ineffective. Of course I realize 2 weeks isn’t very long, but since my doctor is concerned about my gradually but steadily increasing blood pressure and has told me a weight loss of even 10 or 20 pounds will likely prevent my having to control it with medication, even the weight I’ve already lost is of beneft.

<most of reply snipped – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -4) In the Meridia studies, patients did the best on the larger doses (20 and 30 mg), but the blood pressure results were unacceptable. The largest dose Knoll could get approved was 15 mg. Of the surveys I’ve gotten (something like 300 of them), I’d say about 80 percent of the people were not satisfied with the results they got. Barbara Barbara Hirsch, Publisher Obesity Meds and Research News OMR Web Site: http://www.obesity-news.com

Response:

   Why would prior phen-fen use make one less likely to benefit from Meridia (which seems to be the common opinion)?  

Here are a few reasons: 1) Phentermine and fenfluramine are releasers and reuptake inhibitors, Meridia is only a reuptake inhibitor of norepinephrine and serotonin. 2) Phentermine works on dopamine, whereas Meridia has a very small action on dopamine (which is one of the reasons some folks get sleepy on it). 3) Most people develop some what of a tolerance to obesity medications after a while. So if you develop a tolerance,  and you start taking a weaker drug, you are likely to see poor results. Of course, every one’s receptors are different, and YMMV. 4) In the Meridia studies, patients did the best on the larger doses (20 and 30 mg), but the blood pressure results were unacceptable. The largest dose Knoll could get approved was 15 mg. Of the surveys I’ve gotten (something like 300 of them), I’d say about 80 percent of the people were not satisfied with the results they got. Barbara Barbara Hirsch, Publisher Obesity Meds and Research News OMR Web Site: http://www.obesity-news.com

Response:

I’ve been on 10mg per day of Meridia for two weeks and I’ve lost 8 pounds. As a purely subjective speculation, I wonder if it may be effective for so few people because it may work on just a single cause of obesity, that being due to an out-of-whack appetite.

Meridia doesn’t work on any cause of obesity, it’s an appetite suppressant, and the serotonin component *may* help with OCD. But the jury is still out on that. But phen/fen didn’t work on a cause of obesity either. At this point in time researchers conclude that a variety of "susceptibility genes" cause people to be obese. The only way you could accurately treat an obese person is by knowing what those genes were, and then develop drugs or gene therapy to treat. We are many, many years from that point. I can easily resist what is now a much weakened urge to snack or overeat. And although it’s a distant secondary consideration, the price of the medication is a motivating factor, too! I’d hate to be spending so much money on something that turned out to be ineffective.

I’m glad it’s working for you. There’s no arguing with success <G! Of course I realize 2 weeks isn’t very long

No it isn’t. Let me know how you feel in another six months. If you still think it’s effective. Barbara Barbara Hirsch, Publisher Obesity Meds and Research News OMR Web Site: http://www.obesity-news.com

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    Recently I read a study on sibutramine (Meridia).  I had read several others, but not recently.  In this study patients on 5 mg lost more weight than those on placebo.  Patients taking 20 mg lost far more than those taking 5 mg or placebo.  All patients were consuming structured diets, using behavioral modification, and mild exercise.    My question is this: since the drug appears useful in weight reduction (which I guess it’d have to be, to have ever been approved) why are so many people not seeing results with it?  I know a few people have seen results, but the majority, myself included, have been disappointed.    Why would prior phen-fen use make one less likely to benefit from Meridia (which seems to be the common opinion)?  I only took Meridia for 4 weeks; I didn’t want to fork out that much money for another month if it wasn’t doing anything.  Do the effects increase with time?  The study I refer to was only a 12-week study, although none of the participants  were currently using other meds, so phen users would have been excluded from the study.

My own belief is that the mechanisms involved are quite different.  If you were having success with phen/fen, this points heavily in the direction of problems with serotonin levels (Phen increases the release of serotonin, fen slows down the reabsobtion).  Meridia does not greatly affect the serotonin levels – it works (when it works) in other ways.  So it PROBABLY would be true in the other direction as well – IF you are helped by Meridia the odds would be good that Phen/Fen wouldn’t help you much (if you could get it).

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My own belief is that the mechanisms involved are quite different.  If you were having success with phen/fen, this points heavily in the direction of problems with serotonin levels (Phen increases the release of serotonin, fen slows down the reabsobtion).

Phentermine is thought to act by releasing dopamine and retarding its reuptake.  I’ve never heard of it affecting serotonin. Meridia does not greatly affect the serotonin levels – it works (when it works) in other ways.

Siburamine is, like venlafaxine (Effexor), a NE/SRI, reducing the reuptake of both norepinephrine and serotonin. — Steve Dyer

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Harold, I read what you wrote about Phentermine. You got it all wrong. I’d suggest reading the articles on Phentermine on the web site for Rx on the Internet. Love your Dutch name. I am Dutch also.   John Bowen   Nipomo, California   http://www.thegrid.net/jhbowen/life.htm  "Too bad the only people who know how to run this country are too   busy driving cabs and cutting hair." — George Burns

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phentermine releases stored norepinephrine. Main site of activity appears to be thecerebral cortex and the reticular activating system. Promotes nerve impulse transmissions by releasing stored norepinephrine from nerve terminals in the  brain.

I always understood amphetamine, phentermine and the like worked (to the extent that we know how any of these drugs "work") by enhancing the release and reducing the reuptake of dopamine, not NE. — Steve Dyer

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phentermine releases stored norepinephrine. Main site of activity appears to be thecerebral cortex and the reticular activating system. Promotes nerve impulse transmissions by releasing stored norepinephrine from nerve terminals in the  brain.

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Steve, Since sibutramine inhibits re-uptake of serotonin and dopamine, do you think that Wellbutrin (buproprion) would also work for weight loss since it is a dopamine-reuptake inhibitor?   Thanks! Cindy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – phentermine releases stored norepinephrine. Main site of activity appears to be thecerebral cortex and the reticular activating system. Promotes nerve impulse transmissions by releasing stored norepinephrine from nerve terminals in the  brain. I always understood amphetamine, phentermine and the like worked (to the extent that we know how any of these drugs "work") by enhancing the release and reducing the reuptake of dopamine, not NE. — Steve Dyer

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Since sibutramine inhibits re-uptake of serotonin and dopamine, do you

Serotonin and norepinephrine. think that Wellbutrin (buproprion) would also work for weight loss since it is a dopamine-reuptake inhibitor?  

Although bupropion is one of the few antidepressants that rarely causes weight gain, and often causes a slight amount of weight loss in people taking it for depression, and even though it’s chemically related to the anorectic drug diethylpropion (Tenuate), I don’t think it’s a very powerful drug when it comes to weight loss. — Steve Dyer

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If one is already taking Prozac, is it safe to try Meridia? I used Fen/Phen and Prozac successfully with no side affects and had good results in  weight loss, FM pain relief, and depression control. My doctor is recommending Meridia, but would like to have me discontinue the Prozac, I’m worried about removing the Prozac. Have been advised by other doctors not to stop taking it because of previous "crashes" following attempts to come off it.

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If one is already taking Prozac, is it safe to try Meridia?

Meridia product info specifically states "no Prozac." My doctor said the same thing. Weening off Prozac should help "crashes." This is conjecture…I "crashed" big time 4 weeks after stopping cold (only 20mg dose/day). It was not fun, but only lasted about 2 weeks. Waited another week before starting Meridia and am not having any difficulty. I used Fen/Phen and Prozac successfully with no side affects and had good results in  weight loss, FM pain relief, and depression control. My doctor is recommending Meridia, but would like to have me discontinue the Prozac, I’m worried about removing the Prozac. Have been advised by other doctors not to stop taking it because of previous "crashes" following attempts to come off it.

– Mary

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I don’t know about Meridia, but if it’s like Phentermine you CAN’T take Prozac with it. Please refer to an MIT study posted at: http://drugawareness.org/MIT.html Appetite suppressants are MAO inhibitors and cause an internal battlefield when paired with anti-depressant drugs such as Prozac (or fenfluramine, the phen/fen combo we all know and love.) From the article: "Maher said that the information that appears on drug labels, in the   Physician’s Desk Reference and on package inserts that reach   consumers is negotiated between the manufacturer and the    FDA."When the labels for phentermine and Sudafed were negotiated,    their MAO inhibitory activity was not known or appreciated or    considered to be important. And apparently there was no requirement    for phentermine’s label to be updated 20 years ago when it was first    shown to be an MAO inhibitor," he said.    The new findings also probably explain why only a handful of the tens     of millions of patients outside America who took drugs in the     fenfluramine family without phentermine developed pulmonary     hypertension or heart valve lesions, and almost all of these people were     also taking other drugs that we have found are unrecognized MAO      inhibitors," he said." So, my advice would be to find out if Meridia (like all other appetite suppresants is an MAO inhibitor). If so, Prozac and Meridia can be a dangerous combination. Good luck – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If one is already taking Prozac, is it safe to try Meridia? Meridia product info specifically states "no Prozac." My doctor said the same thing. Weening off Prozac should help "crashes." This is conjecture…I "crashed" big time 4 weeks after stopping cold (only 20mg dose/day). It was not fun, but only lasted about 2 weeks. Waited another week before starting Meridia and am not having any difficulty. I used Fen/Phen and Prozac successfully with no side affects and had good results in  weight loss, FM pain relief, and depression control. My doctor is recommending Meridia, but would like to have me discontinue the Prozac, I’m worried about removing the Prozac. Have been advised by other doctors not to stop taking it because of previous "crashes" following attempts to come off it. — Mary

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I don’t know about Meridia, but if it’s like Phentermine you CAN’T take Prozac with it.

There’s no absolute contraindication in taking phentermine with Prozac. Please refer to an MIT study posted at: http://drugawareness.org/MIT.html Appetite suppressants are MAO inhibitors and cause an internal battlefield when paired with anti-depressant drugs such as Prozac (or fenfluramine, the phen/fen combo we all know and love.)

Appetite suppressants like amphetamine and phentermine are "MAO inhibitors" only in an extremely restricted sense; one with unproven clinical relevance, despite the claims on that web page. The reason you wouldn’t want to take Prozac and Meridia together is that they both act as serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (with Meridia also acting as a norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor.) — Steve Dyer

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Question:

Please help with any advice that you may have. 5 years ago I was diagnosed with depression. Have taken Prozac, Effexor and now Serzone. I have a gut feeling that I have been misdiagnosed and actually suffer from PD or a combination of the two. Although I am much better now, I feel that I still suffer from PA’s from time to time ranging from mild to severe. I don’t trust my Psychiatrist and am really fed up with only being part of the whole person I know I can be. Has anyone out there been in the same situation and if so, what did you do? Hopeful, Gary P.S. E-mail responses preferred.

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: : I don’t trust my Psychiatrist and am really fed up with only being part of : the whole person I know I can be. Has anyone out there been in the same : situation and if so, what did you do? Hi Gary, Sounds like this would be a good time to consult another psychiatrist. Pick up the phone and call your local major metropolitan hospitals to ask if they have an anxiety clinic or psychiatric staff familiar with anxiety and panic disorders. Make an appointment and get another opinion on your case. Feel free to post the group or e-mail me for further info or support.                                         Best Wishes,                                         Arthur

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I don’t trust my Psychiatrist and am really fed up with only being part of the whole person I know I can be. Has anyone out there been in the same situation and if so, what did you do?

Hello Gary I would think it’s a second opinion that you’re looking for. If all else fails you could treat yourself. It will mean a great deal of reading, research and being honest with yourself but it is (IMHO) a common misconception that expert guidance is necessary in all cases. Have faith in yourself and your own judgement, even if it’s let you down in the past. If you seek further professional treatment try to play a more active role – take charge. Hopeful,

Stay that way, hope is all that you need. Best of luck — ROB…  "high mileage but reliable!"

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