Question:

: : :Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me :thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just :praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like :a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. : : :There is not a whole lot that you can do.  Colds are caused by viruses :and the only thing that can defeat them is the body’s immune system. : :In an attempt to make life more comfortable, you might discuss (with :your doctor) going on an increased regimen of asthma medications while :you wait for the cold to go away. : My experience suggests:- 1) When a cold starts, immediately double up on inhaled steroids (assuming you take them! – I suspect your doctor may recommend them); it is important not to wait until you start to feel worse. If one doubling does not succeed, do it again. Your doctor should advise on how much is the safe maximum. Depending on how serious your asthma actually is you may be well advised to start monitoring your ability to breath out using a "PFL" (Peak Flow Meter, or "puff-meter as my wife calls it). 2) The suggestion that your sinuses may be involved should be followed up. I had an ever more frequent series of "colds" and other infections, culminating in about 6 months during which I was hardly ever free of something. This was eventually diagnosed as a blocked infected sinus, and I had an operation to get it draining again. This still flares up from time to time, but I quickly take antibiotic and avoid nasty consequences. For mild sinus/cold symptoms, some of the old fashioed cures still work, and work well: steam inhalation (or use of a steam room in a health suite) is very good. Barry Landy                        Computer Laboratory:+44 1223 334600 University of Cambridge Computing Service New Museums Site                   Email: Remove "nospam" from above Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3QG

Response:

Hi Colleen: Thank you SO much for sharing your knowledge and information.  I will make an appointment with my doctor to see if I can get on some antibiotics which will, hopefully, kick this thing! Again, many thanks! Kathy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Colleen: Thanks for your response!  I’m presently taking Flovent 250 (2 puff 3x daily), and Singulair in the evenings. Hi Kathy, If those two drugs control your asthma, then there isn’t any point in changing them. I believe, however,  that "all" asthmatics should  have access to a short-acting bronchodilator medication for use in an emergency.  You really should get a script from your doctor for one. I’ve heard the medication "Pulmicort" being mentioned on this newsgroup.  Some say that they take this only when they have a chest cold, just to get them thru it.  Should I be looking at talking to my doctor about this medication? All inhaled corticosteroids should be taken daily as prescribed. I use Pulmicort via nebulizer (twice a day).  It is an inhaled corticosteroid similar to Flovent and must be used on a regular basis to be effective.   You may be confusing Pulmicort with Prednisone (an oral corticosteroid) which is often prescribed (short term) for asthmatics when they have a severe chest infection (cold). However, I sure don’t recommend the use of oral steroids unless there is absolutely no other choice.   You may need an antibiotic though. Ceftin and Cipro are both good for upper respiratory infections. Talk to your doctor Kathy, you may need one to help you get over this infection, otherwise, your asthma could become more serious. Cheers, Colleen Thanks again! Kathy

Response:

Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity.

There is not a whole lot that you can do.  Colds are caused by viruses and the only thing that can defeat them is the body’s immune system. In an attempt to make life more comfortable, you might discuss (with your doctor) going on an increased regimen of asthma medications while you wait for the cold to go away. "The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has limits." Einstein

Response:

Hi Colleen: Thanks for your response!  I’m presently taking Flovent 250 (2 puff 3x daily), and Singulair in the evenings.

Hi Kathy, If those two drugs control your asthma, then there isn’t any point in changing them. I believe, however,  that "all" asthmatics should  have access to a short-acting bronchodilator medication for use in an emergency.  You really should get a script from your doctor for one. I’ve heard the medication "Pulmicort" being mentioned on this newsgroup.  Some say that they take this only when they have a chest cold, just to get them thru it.  Should I be looking at talking to my doctor about this medication?

All inhaled corticosteroids should be taken daily as prescribed. I use Pulmicort via nebulizer (twice a day).  It is an inhaled corticosteroid similar to Flovent and must be used on a regular basis to be effective.   You may be confusing Pulmicort with Prednisone (an oral corticosteroid) which is often prescribed (short term) for asthmatics when they have a severe chest infection (cold). However, I sure don’t recommend the use of oral steroids unless there is absolutely no other choice.   You may need an antibiotic though. Ceftin and Cipro are both good for upper respiratory infections. Talk to your doctor Kathy, you may need one to help you get over this infection, otherwise, your asthma could become more serious. Cheers, Colleen – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Thanks again! Kathy

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there… I’m fairly new to this asthma thing; having been diagnosed around two years ago at the age of 38.  I have a quick question….. Everytime I contract a cold (which seems to be too often lately), once it reaches my lungs, it sets me WAY back…takes forever to get thru the cold. Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. Thanks for any advise! Kathy Hi Kathy, What medication are you taking for your asthma? If you are not taking inhaled steroids, you should be. Also Singulair may be helpful to you too. Sinus infections could be the root of your problem. Some of the  "colds" you are experiencing may not actually be "colds" at all,  but inflammation caused  by purulence draining into your lungs from your sinus. What are you doing to try to keep your sinus infections under control? Warm salt water nasal irrigation is really helpful to me. The advice offered by Dr. Murray Grossan MD (ENT on-line consultant) below is definitely worth taking. http://www.ent-consult.com/ http://www.ent-consult.com/abstract.html http://www.ent-consult.com/cough.html You may also want to check the alt. support.sinusitis newsgroup. Cheers, Colleen

Hi Colleen: Thanks for your response!  I’m presently taking Flovent 250 (2 puff 3x daily), and Singulair in the evenings. Interesting point about the draining sinuses causing infection.  I’m presently not taking anything other than vitamins.  I’ve heard the medication "Pulmicort" being mentioned on this newsgroup.  Some say that they take this only when they have a chest cold, just to get them thru it.  Should I be looking at talking to my doctor about this medication? Thanks again! Kathy

Response:

Hi, I had the same problem.  Then the phlegm is really thick and makes you choke.  First I was told when I first felt a cold coming on to use my rescue inhaler (Proventil) 4 times daily rather than as needed.  Then I was given Entex LA (decongestant/expectorant) and this has helped me a lot.   I am not a Dr/Professional so check with YOUR doctor before using your rescue inhaler more often that was told to you.  (my disclaimer) Good luck to you—– Lynn – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there… I’m fairly new to this asthma thing; having been diagnosed around two years ago at the age of 38.  I have a quick question….. Everytime I contract a cold (which seems to be too often lately), once it reaches my lungs, it sets me WAY back…takes forever to get thru the cold. Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. Thanks for any advise! Kathy

Response:

Hi there… I’m fairly new to this asthma thing; having been diagnosed around two years ago at the age of 38.  I have a quick question….. Everytime I contract a cold (which seems to be too often lately), once it reaches my lungs, it sets me WAY back…takes forever to get thru the cold. Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. Thanks for any advise! Kathy

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there… I’m fairly new to this asthma thing; having been diagnosed around two years ago at the age of 38.  I have a quick question….. Everytime I contract a cold (which seems to be too often lately), once it reaches my lungs, it sets me WAY back…takes forever to get thru the cold. Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. Thanks for any advise! Kathy

Hi Kathy, What medication are you taking for your asthma? If you are not taking inhaled steroids, you should be. Also Singulair may be helpful to you too. Sinus infections could be the root of your problem. Some of the  "colds" you are experiencing may not actually be "colds" at all,  but inflammation caused  by purulence draining into your lungs from your sinus. What are you doing to try to keep your sinus infections under control? Warm salt water nasal irrigation is really helpful to me. The advice offered by Dr. Murray Grossan MD (ENT on-line consultant) below is definitely worth taking. http://www.ent-consult.com/ http://www.ent-consult.com/abstract.html http://www.ent-consult.com/cough.html You may also want to check the alt. support.sinusitis newsgroup. Cheers, Colleen

Response:

Question:

Has anyone heard of Zoloft withdrawal lasting longer than a couple of weeks? I was taking 200 to 250 mg Zoloft daily (increased during PMS) and then switched to Celexa. I was frustrated with neither of them helping my depression, so I unwisely abruptly discontinued the medication. My withdrawal symptoms ranged from moderate to severe…initially, I experienced extreme agitation, anxiety, crying, uncharacteristic rage, and formication (sensation that bugs were crawling on me). With the help of my doctor, I restarted a low dose of Celexa (I had been on 20 mg prior to this) and tapered off–but still quicker than I should have because I’m stubborn. The main problems that persisted for a couple of weeks were numbness and tingling in my arms and legs, and then spontaneous pain or muscle spasms in my legs. (Pretty darn painful). That and gastro-intestinal distress. My doctor felt that most of this was actually withdrawal from the Zoloft, not Celexa. She felt that the Celexa had prevented me from going into Zoloft withdrawal, but when I discontinued Celexa, the Zoloft withdrawal kicked in. From what I’ve read about other people’s experiences with Zoloft withdrawal, my symptoms do appear to match theirs. I had been taking Zoloft (at different doses) for about 4 years. I tried other medications during that time, but I was unable to tolerate most of them. I am very sensitive to medications and tend to have side effects with just about everything I take, usually to the point where I don’t want to take anything. Back to the symptoms–after 2-1/2 weeks, these symptoms diminished. 3-1/2 weeks after the initial discontinuation, however, I had a flare-up of gastro-intenstinal distress that lasted a day or two. Then, 4-1/2 weeks after the initial discontinuation (maybe 2 weeks since stopping the mild tapering-off) I experienced the leg pain, numbness, tingling along with severe stomach cramps and such. I did not expect to still be experiencing withdrawal symptoms, so I’m confused. Am I imagining things? Is this something else? Thank you for any help you can provide.

Response:

Question:

My jogging results decreased considarably when using an antidepressant. (Forgot the name, started with an i )

Imipramine? Besides that, I slept poor, had problems with shitting (sorry, don’t know a good english phrase), dizzyness when standing up and more.

Yup.  That sounds like imipramine. Imipramine’s common side effects include   sedation   dry mouth   blurred vision   urinary retention   constipation   orthostatic hypotension (dizzyness when standing up)   weight gain (moderate)   myoclonus (involuntary muscle jerks, especially at night)   lowered blood pressure   increased heart rate In my own experience, imipramine puts me to sleep very effectively, but I often wake up after two or three hours, and sometimes have trouble getting back to sleep afterwards. I haven’t heard of any special problems with running, although sedation could be the problem, I suppose. Anyway, if you can’t tolerate the side effects, there are many other antidepressants that don’t have these particular ones.  You should mention the problems to your doctor and ask whether it would be advisable to change drugs. S. suricata

Response:

Hello folks– I’ve been prescribed Effexor XR for just over a month for moderate depression. I started at the lower doses of 37.5 and 75 mg. for two weeks, and I’ve been on the 150 mg. dose (once a day) for nearly 3 weeks.  I’ve had very few of the *customary* side effects and I’m tolerating the 150 mg. dose well, and the medication is really working well at alleviating my depression. However, I think the medication is negatively affecting my harder runs–specifically my recent 5K to 5 mile races, and my tempo/interval workout on Wednesday evenings.  For example, I’ve slowed down about 1:30 for my 5K time (29:15 in mid-November to 30:45 on New Year’s Day), and I’m considerably slower running my interval workout when I take my pill the morning of the workout.  Yesterday I experimented by skipping my pill, and ran my workout great–like before I started on the medication.  However, last nite I had very vivid dreams while sleeping (the second time this has happened), and felt groggy when getting up–which passed after I took my pill after eating breakfast this morning. Does anyone here on the newsgroups know specifically about the cardiovascular effects of anti-depressants?  Will my running/training be compromised for as long as I’m on the medication?  I’ll be mentioning this to my psychiatrist when I see her soon, but I thought I’d ask about it here first.  Since she told me that I could expect to be on medication this time for over a year (this is my 3rd recurrence of depression in 16 years), I’d really like to get this little *wrinkle* straightened out sooner instead of later! Thanks in advance– Jean Barto Newport News, VA — "If you are going through hell, keep going." Winston Churchill

Response:

Venlafaxine (Effexor) has a minor CNS depressant effect that in theory *could* have affected your performance. In general, sports and meds should be kept separate if possible. M99

Response:

My jogging results decreased considarably when using an antidepressant. (Forgot the name, started with an i ) Besides that, I slept poor, had problems with shitting (sorry, don’t know a good english phrase), dizzyness when standing up and more.

Response:

Question:

Hi all. I’ve been on Paxil for 3.5 years, and, after considering it for a while, recently decided I needed to get off it and switch to something else. The difficulties I was having with the drug were starting to outweigh the benefits, and it hasn’t addressed several of my most distressing  depression symptoms at all. Unfortunately, I’ve been experiencing some rather nasty withdrawal symptoms. At times I’ve felt like I am going through a rather severe depression relapse, and my already annoying problems with mental confusion and lack of concentration have multiplied. I now find it difficult to speak to anyone, since I often totally forget what I was talking about. Driving has even gotten difficult, since I sometimes blank out in the middle if a trip. I lose my temper if someone looks at me wrong, and I cry at the slightest provocation. My doc explained to me that I wasn’t losing it, or on my way back to the psych ward, but experiencing Paxil withdrawal. He put me on 20mg of Prozac, to help alleviate the symptoms, but they’re still effecting me badly. I was even forced to take a couple of weeks off from work. Anyone have any suggestions to help me get through this? Also, I’m still not sure where to go from here. My doc has said we’ll discuss options at my next visit, and I’ve done a lot of research on my own, but I’m still not sure what to do. Some of the options include, switching to Effexor, staying with the Prozac, or going to a different SSRI like Celexa. My main concerns are finding something that will help me think more clearly and concentrate better in addition to keeping up my desire to stay alive, and won’t cause me to gain any more weight. Any ideas and suggestions would be appreciated. Joanne

Response:

Paxil withdrawal support site http://members.tripod.lycos.com/fstreicher/ good luck and best wishes Bob

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all. I’ve been on Paxil for 3.5 years, and, after considering it for a while, recently decided I needed to get off it and switch to something else. The difficulties I was having with the drug were starting to outweigh the benefits, and it hasn’t addressed several of my most distressing depression symptoms at all. Unfortunately, I’ve been experiencing some rather nasty withdrawal symptoms. At times I’ve felt like I am going through a rather severe depression relapse, and my already annoying problems with mental confusion and lack of concentration have multiplied. I now find it difficult to speak to anyone, since I often totally forget what I was talking about. Driving has even gotten difficult, since I sometimes blank out in the middle if a trip. I lose my temper if someone looks at me wrong, and I cry at the slightest provocation. My doc explained to me that I wasn’t losing it, or on my way back to the psych ward, but experiencing Paxil withdrawal. He put me on 20mg of Prozac, to help alleviate the symptoms, but they’re still effecting me badly. I was even forced to take a couple of weeks off from work. Anyone have any suggestions to help me get through this? Also, I’m still not sure where to go from here. My doc has said we’ll discuss options at my next visit, and I’ve done a lot of research on my own, but I’m still not sure what to do. Some of the options include, switching to Effexor, staying with the Prozac, or going to a different SSRI like Celexa. My main concerns are finding something that will help me think more clearly and concentrate better in addition to keeping up my desire to stay alive, and won’t cause me to gain any more weight. Any ideas and suggestions would be appreciated. Joanne

Response:

Question:

Hi, The best meds against BPD/Depression are supposedly the MAOi’s. However, they tend to cause weight gain (Parnate less than Nardil). There are *some* foods you can’t eat while on them, but they are not your typical binge foods (you can’t eat aged cheese and drink red wine, for example, but chocolate is out, too).  But if you have weight issues, you might want to avoid meds that might lead to weight gain. As to your bulimia: Prozac at higher doses is approved as a treatment against bulimia (I am a recovering bulimic and on 60mg Prozac).  There has been one study done decades back on the TCA’s isipramine/desipramine and their effect on preventing binges: for me that is completely true!  For most people they lead to weight gain. Total opposite for me.  I am on only 100mg of desipramine as Prozac raises the plasma level of all TCA’s.  And one of the best drugs against bingeing is Topamax, an anti-convulsant, which is right now undergoing clinical trials to be approved as mood stabilizer (it kicks ass as a mood stabilizer) and there are some trials going on at some universities (I forgot where), where they are testing it’s effectiveness as an anti-bingeing drug.  I haven’t even had the thought/urge/desire to binge while on it.  I don’t think I physically could binge while on Topamax, it’s hard to describe.  I am on 200mg. Maybe you could talk to your doctor about replacing the mini dose ofRisperdal with Topamax (start out slowly – 25mg once a day, then after a few days 25mg twice a day etc., or it will knock you out).  It should calm you down and relieve anxiety and freaky thinking as well as Risperdal.  You might not even need the Trazodone anymore. For me, the tricyclic/Prozac combo has been the only thing to lift me out of my depression.  It’s worth asking about it.  Do you have prescription drug insurance?  If not, e-mail me if you go on Prozac or Topamax, ok?  I might have some info for you… All the best, Elgin — "Come what come may time and hour runs through the roughest day." Shakespeare, Macbeth. — "Come what come may time and hour runs through the roughest day." Shakespeare, Macbeth. Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Response:

If you are still in your active phase of bulimia, Wellbutrin is highly unindicated, as it will increase your risk for seizures by quite a bit (bulimia, of course, increases your risk for seizures, too, as I hope you know).  If you try Wellbutrin, are in recovery from bulimia and are on an anti-convulsant/mood-stabilizer there should be no problem… Elgin In article <39B9DE4A.C75B6…@home.com

,

  Heather <h…@home.com

wrote:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Effexor should work at least a little.  I know what you mean about feeling like a pharmacy.  I’m on Effexor XR (150 mg twice a day), clozapine (1.5 mg three times a day), Olanzapine (7.5 mg twice a day) and up until a week ago, I was also on Ritalin slow release 20 mg a day.  After I had a seizure last week ( first time I had one & in Superstore of all places…how embarassing!!!)  Anyway, they took me

off

the Ritalin since then & now I can’t concentrate worth shit!  I can relate to what you’re feeling with nothing working, I feel the same

way,

& I’ve been on almost every drug possible over the last 10 years.

Have

you tried Wellbutrin?  If it’s weight you’re worried about, it does

help

to suppress your appetite & is somewhat of a stimulant to your system, talk to your doc first to see if it’s right for you.  It’s worth a

shot.

Good Luck to you. Heather marcel…@my-deja.com wrote: I’m on 225 mg of effexor for depression, 1.5 mg Risperdal for

anxiety

and mood swings, 150 mg. Trazadone for insomnia. I feel like a

pharmacy.

unfortunately none of it seems to be workig at an optimal level. I

am

still hideously depressed and moody as all hell. My anxiety is down, but I still have occassional panic attacks. The only thing tha is working as well as it could is the Trazadone–that stuff puts me

OUT.

 I’ve heard that tricyclic, or maybe it was MAIO type anti-

depressants

are actually more effective on people with BPD than the newer generations like Prozac or Effexor. Does anyone know anything about this. Unfortunately, I know I can’t take an MAIO because i’m bulimic nad prone to impulsive eating binges, and there are many things you can’t eat on them.  All I know, though, is that my anti-depressant

is

NOT working, and i’ve given it a fair trail–nearly 2 months.  IT seems like I will be in emotional pain forever, with no relief. Also, my bulimic symptoms are not improving. Does anyone know of amedication that will target that? –marcella Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

— "Come what come may time and hour runs through the roughest day." Shakespeare, Macbeth. Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Response:

Effexor should work at least a little.  I know what you mean about feeling like a pharmacy.  I’m on Effexor XR (150 mg twice a day), clozapine (1.5 mg three times a day), Olanzapine (7.5 mg twice a day) and up until a week ago, I was also on Ritalin slow release 20 mg a day.  After I had a seizure last week ( first time I had one & in Superstore of all places…how embarassing!!!)  Anyway, they took me off the Ritalin since then & now I can’t concentrate worth shit!  I can relate to what you’re feeling with nothing working, I feel the same way, & I’ve been on almost every drug possible over the last 10 years.  Have you tried Wellbutrin?  If it’s weight you’re worried about, it does help to suppress your appetite & is somewhat of a stimulant to your system, talk to your doc first to see if it’s right for you.  It’s worth a shot. Good Luck to you. Heather – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -marcel…@my-deja.com wrote:

I’m on 225 mg of effexor for depression, 1.5 mg Risperdal for anxiety and mood swings, 150 mg. Trazadone for insomnia. I feel like a pharmacy. unfortunately none of it seems to be workig at an optimal level. I am still hideously depressed and moody as all hell. My anxiety is down, but I still have occassional panic attacks. The only thing tha is working as well as it could is the Trazadone–that stuff puts me OUT.  I’ve heard that tricyclic, or maybe it was MAIO type anti-depressants are actually more effective on people with BPD than the newer generations like Prozac or Effexor. Does anyone know anything about this. Unfortunately, I know I can’t take an MAIO because i’m bulimic nad prone to impulsive eating binges, and there are many things you can’t eat on them.  All I know, though, is that my anti-depressant is NOT working, and i’ve given it a fair trail–nearly 2 months.  IT seems like I will be in emotional pain forever, with no relief. Also, my bulimic symptoms are not improving. Does anyone know of amedication that will target that? –marcella Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Response:

I’m on 225 mg of effexor for depression, 1.5 mg Risperdal for anxiety and mood swings, 150 mg. Trazadone for insomnia. I feel like a pharmacy. unfortunately none of it seems to be workig at an optimal level. I am still hideously depressed and moody as all hell. My anxiety is down, but I still have occassional panic attacks. The only thing tha is working as well as it could is the Trazadone–that stuff puts me OUT.  I’ve heard that tricyclic, or maybe it was MAIO type anti-depressants are actually more effective on people with BPD than the newer generations like Prozac or Effexor. Does anyone know anything about this. Unfortunately, I know I can’t take an MAIO because i’m bulimic nad prone to impulsive eating binges, and there are many things you can’t eat on them.  All I know, though, is that my anti-depressant is NOT working, and i’ve given it a fair trail–nearly 2 months.  IT seems like I will be in emotional pain forever, with no relief. Also, my bulimic symptoms are not improving. Does anyone know of amedication that will target that? –marcella Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

Hello All, I’ve been bipolar for years and have anxiety that truly gets in the way. Well last Wed. I saw a therapist for the first time in many years and told her how I felt. Friday I get a call from her saying that my pdoc wants me to go on Celexa asap. I’m a little reluctant as I just got off Serzone a month or so ago. (I never thought I had any luck with A/D’s at all). Does anone take Celexa here? I found out its only been out since July/98. If so e-mail me your results, I would appreciate it. Ihave the bottle sitting here but not sure if I’m going to use it. Please Help!!! Thanks…Mike

Response:

Mike ,     On thursday when I see my Psychiatrist I am going to ask to try Celexa. I have worn out Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor, Lithium ( not for me at all, made me a zombie) and Luvox. Would love to hear from anyone also , why they took it, how they felt. pcangel

Response:

This is a question for those who have tried celexa.  Could you tell me the following? 1.  did it help you 2.  dosage 3.  side effects I am going to try celexa and wanted to know a little bit what to expect. Thank you for your input. debbie m.

Response:

I have been on for about a year and it has helped me greatly !!! Little noticable side effects. It takes about a month or so to get the full benefit- so dont give up too soon. I started out taking 1 pink tablet = 20 mg. But now I take 1 and 1/2  = 30 mg daily. good luck

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is a question for those who have tried celexa.  Could you tell me the following? 1.  did it help you 2.  dosage 3.  side effects I am going to try celexa and wanted to know a little bit what to expect. Thank you for your input. debbie m.

Response:

From ~ dawn ~: I have been on for about a year and it has helped me greatly !!! Little noticable side effects. It takes about a month or so to get the full benefit- so dont give up too soon. I started out taking 1 pink tablet = 20 mg. But now I take 1 and 1/2  = 30 mg daily. good luck

I think it’s a great antidepressant, and I’ve taken a lot of them. Doesn’t make me drowsy, but doesn’t make me speedy either. I take 30 mg, too. It’s kind of like a second generation Prozac, with the "kinks" worked out. At least that’s what my therapist says… -kk – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is a question for those who have tried celexa.  Could you tell me the following? 1.  did it help you 2.  dosage 3.  side effects I am going to try celexa and wanted to know a little bit what to expect. Thank you for your input. debbie m.

  <<<<http://members.home.net/karensears<<<< – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

This is a question for those who have tried celexa.  Could you tell me the following? 1.  did it help you 2.  dosage 3.  side effects I am going to try celexa and wanted to know a little bit what to expect. Thank you for your input. debbie m.

Response:

I have been on for about a year and it has helped me greatly !!! Little noticable side effects. It takes about a month or so to get the full benefit- so dont give up too soon. I started out taking 1 pink tablet = 20 mg. But now I take 1 and 1/2  = 30 mg daily. good luck

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is a question for those who have tried celexa.  Could you tell me the following? 1.  did it help you 2.  dosage 3.  side effects I am going to try celexa and wanted to know a little bit what to expect. Thank you for your input. debbie m.

Response:

From ~ dawn ~: I have been on for about a year and it has helped me greatly !!! Little noticable side effects. It takes about a month or so to get the full benefit- so dont give up too soon. I started out taking 1 pink tablet = 20 mg. But now I take 1 and 1/2  = 30 mg daily. good luck

I think it’s a great antidepressant, and I’ve taken a lot of them. Doesn’t make me drowsy, but doesn’t make me speedy either. I take 30 mg, too. It’s kind of like a second generation Prozac, with the "kinks" worked out. At least that’s what my therapist says… -kk – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is a question for those who have tried celexa.  Could you tell me the following? 1.  did it help you 2.  dosage 3.  side effects I am going to try celexa and wanted to know a little bit what to expect. Thank you for your input. debbie m.

  <<<<http://members.home.net/karensears<<<< – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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Question:

As I previously posted, I was advised by my PDoc to increase my dosage of Zoloft from 100 mg to 200 mg per day slowly in an attempt to treat my high level of anxiety. I’m up to 125 mg now, and I’m noticing the effect; I wouldn’t exactly describe it as anxiety–more like "antsiness", or agitation.  I feel like I need to be constantly moving, even if it’s drumming my fingers on a table when I’m sitting. Anyone else have a similar experience? Carol

Response:

I’ve been taking Zoloft for almost a month, 50mg and klonopin for anxiety as needed (haven’t yet) and have been very fidgety.  I’m always wiggling but it isn’t bothering me.  We’ll see how things go, I’m feeling tons better than I felt before I got the meds and was depressed/anxious 24/7.  I’ve noticed that I’m very antsy though.   shanti As I previously posted, I was advised by my PDoc to increase my dosage of Zoloft from 100 mg to 200 mg per day slowly in an attempt to treat my high level of anxiety. I’m up to 125 mg now, and I’m noticing the effect; I wouldn’t exactly describe it as anxiety–more like "antsiness", or agitation.  I feel like I need to be constantly moving, even if it’s drumming my fingers on a table when I’m sitting. Anyone else have a similar experience? Carol

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Response:

Question:

Hi gang.  My Mother-in-law called today as she read an article about Taco Neck offending those with ST in Baton Rouge, LA.  There was a local phone number & I called and found there exists a number of people with dystonia living in my area. They have a "group" but it doesn’t meet due to the fact that many members cannot get there as they are homebound.  Most of the members have ST, however, which differs from me as I am generalized.  I did find out that the head of the local group presented ST info to a local neurologist and that physician made a point to go to Houston and learn how to give BOTOX injections.  He has saved several people the long drive and it sounds as if he has done a lot of good.  I had heard of this physician when people thought I had MS and almost contacted him to see if he would like to take a shot at helping my dystonia, but I was afraid he’d look at my records and think I was crazy again…he is in the same clinic with one of the neuros who sent me home with a bag of depression meds; later he said I had a benign essential tremor with "some rigidity". Not!!!   After talking with the head of the group, I learned that none of them accessed info on the computer and he was surprised at how many of us correspond with one another with such frequency.  He asked the cutest question, "Well, tell me, have you been able to find very many people with dystonia by looking in your computer?" He was blown away by my answer!!! Now he wants to try to "rejuvenate" the group  and try to meet again to set up a way to meet regularly.  He wants me to tell them about our newsgroup and all the friends we’ve all made, how we keep each other from feeling misunderstood, alone.  It was a good time to talk to him because I feel like I’ve been losing the battle against dystonia lately…I’m sure it’s temporary as I’ve never been hit this hard for long since I got on the meds.  He said there’s no one in the group who has it all over them this way, but he said that regardless of what happens, I’m going to win anyway, he said he heard it in my voice. (What if I lose my voice!<g) I’m scared to death, but I’m thinking about making an appointment with that physician.  He’s even on my PPO so it will only be $10.  I haven’t seen a doctor since last September and I was there to get a letter that said I was doing great so our group insurance could be moved to a less expensive carrier.  I will be hurt if I subject myself to this man and he comes up with some oddball stress and anxiety diagnosis.  Then he’d probably send that to my primary care physician and mess up the only reasonable avenue I have for help here.  Okay, I’m out of the closet now…the Slipper is scared of being called a nut (well at least by doctors). —Gene, don’t you dare jump on that statement!!!<g The other good news is that our nine-parish newspaper printed the short article about Taco Neck and ST and the phone number.  Perhaps it will get the attention of someone like me. Okay, so that’s that.  I’m no longer an alien life form here in this town. (—I’m warning you Gene..don’t say it!!!<g) Love yaw, Slipper

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi gang.  My Mother-in-law called today as she read an article about Taco Neck offending those with ST in Baton Rouge, LA.  There was a local phone number & I called and found there exists a number of people with dystonia living in my area. They have a "group" but it doesn’t meet due to the fact that many members cannot get there as they are homebound.  Most of the members have ST, however, which differs from me as I am generalized.  I did find out that the head of the local group presented ST info to a local neurologist and that physician made a point to go to Houston and learn how to give BOTOX injections.  He has saved several people the long drive and it sounds as if he has done a lot of good.  I had heard of this physician when people thought I had MS and almost contacted him to see if he would like to take a shot at helping my dystonia, but I was afraid he’d look at my records and think I was crazy again…he is in the same clinic with one of the neuros who sent me home with a bag of depression meds; later he said I had a benign essential tremor with "some rigidity". Not!!!   After talking with the head of the group, I learned that none of them accessed info on the computer and he was surprised at how many of us correspond with one another with such frequency.  He asked the cutest question, "Well, tell me, have you been able to find very many people with dystonia by looking in your computer?" He was blown away by my answer!!! Now he wants to try to "rejuvenate" the group  and try to meet again to set up a way to meet regularly.  He wants me to tell them about our newsgroup and all the friends we’ve all made, how we keep each other from feeling misunderstood, alone.  It was a good time to talk to him because I feel like I’ve been losing the battle against dystonia lately…I’m sure it’s temporary as I’ve never been hit this hard for long since I got on the meds.  He said there’s no one in the group who has it all over them this way, but he said that regardless of what happens, I’m going to win anyway, he said he heard it in my voice. (What if I lose my voice!<g) I’m scared to death, but I’m thinking about making an appointment with that physician.  He’s even on my PPO so it will only be $10.  I haven’t seen a doctor since last September and I was there to get a letter that said I was doing great so our group insurance could be moved to a less expensive carrier.  I will be hurt if I subject myself to this man and he comes up with some oddball stress and anxiety diagnosis.  Then he’d probably send that to my primary care physician and mess up the only reasonable avenue I have for help here.  Okay, I’m out of the closet now…the Slipper is scared of being called a nut (well at least by doctors). —Gene, don’t you dare jump on that statement!!!<g The other good news is that our nine-parish newspaper printed the short article about Taco Neck and ST and the phone number.  Perhaps it will get the attention of someone like me. Okay, so that’s that.  I’m no longer an alien life form here in this town. (—I’m warning you Gene..don’t say it!!!<g) Love yaw, Slipper

Slipper: Sorry to hear you’re on a downer — these slides are tough. In my case it has been deemed too risky for me to see a neurologist as my case got botched so much it became almost political with a large "P". Anyway, it has not escaped my attention what happened after I simply wandered by and posted that "Library Neck" story. Well, well, seems you, Gene and Catherine just jumped on my innocent question about the source of Gene’s humour — er, I mean printed jokes <<g. Boy did you three run with that one! Proving to us all that the three of you are sorta, kinda, somewhat, grudgingly, in an offhanded way, indirectly, less than obviously pals . SO glad <<g I could help!!! Gotta watch those innocent questions of mine! Hi to all John

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writes: ..just send flowers to Gaby, you will know what happened…..<<g Send flowers to Gaby anyway!!! <g Gene, Gene listen, listen to me…behave.

You know I always behave, don’t ya?   <g <<<<<<<<<<<<<<G -Slip

OK! OK!  Slipper you win, you win….<g It is true, Slipper and I are good friends and we don’t fight off line.   It’s a nice sunny day out and it reminds me to wish everyone (including a special someone:-) a great summer.  I am taking a break but will be checking my e-mail sporadically  and responding to anyone who writes. Gene

Response:

. Boy did you three run with that one! Proving to us all that the three of you are sorta, kinda, somewhat, grudgingly, in an offhanded way, indirectly, less than obviously pals .

Actually John, and don’t repeat this, we fight all the time off line. You haven’t seen my eyes….and  bruises here and there, I am a mess….  Now Slipper has instructed the whole gang to.."go get him." Yikes!!!!!!  If you stop hearing from me….just send flowers to Gaby, you will know what happened…..<<g

Response:

writes: ..just send flowers to Gaby, you will know what happened…..<<g

Send flowers to Gaby anyway!!! <g Gene, Gene listen, listen to me…behave. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<G -Slip

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Question:

What’s the difference?  Is there anyone with experience with both?

Response:

What’s the difference?  Is there anyone with experience with both?

Big difference!  Prozac started it all and many other (paxil, zoloft, effexor, luvox) followed.  The basis is the same, but for more info I would suggest doing a search on any one in particular or investing in a drug book for lay people or checking out a PDR.  There are many here that have been on both, perhaps if you specify what it is you wantr to know…. Gwen

Response:

What’s the difference?  Is there anyone with experience with both?

  Years ago my pDoc was reluctant to put me on Prozac.  I was already on Imipramine with Ativan for GAD and Prozac was known to cause anxiety.  However since depression was also a major problem for me, he finally put me on Prozac.  Worked great for me for a couple of years.  It did make me more anxious, but greatly helped my depression and panic.  Eventually I switched to Paxil because the anxiety got to be too much.  Paxil did have less of an anxiety effect on me and also helped panic and depression.  Paxil has a shorter half-life and this can make withdrawl from it more difficult (it did for me).    A search of this NG (and alt.support.depression) should provide all sorts of experiences with both. Depends on your needs as to which is best and of course YMMV.    Of course the Web has lots of info too, like these: http://www.gold.net/users/ad88/sideedi.htm http://www.MedsiteNavigator.com/drugs/drugs.html    (Prozac=Fluoxetine,Paxil=Paroxetine) Cheers, Bill

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:       What is a therapeutic dose of PAXIL. That depends on you and your doctor.  SmithKline makes 10 mg (new), 20 mg, and 30 mg tablets I believe. Some of

these have scores in the middle, some don’t.  I believe the 20 mg does. One possible advantage of Paxil is faster onset of action.  Prozac usually takes weeks, Paxil is faster.  It took me about 20 minutes.  I take 20 mg.  Initial side-effects that wore off: jitters, uneven feelings.   Prolonged side-effects: inability to sleep without klonopin or Excedrin PM, libido decreasing from little to almost zilch.  Frankly, I like that, as I am going through a divorce.  My wife doesn’t want me, and I don’t want anyone else.  I would take it for that reason alone.  It makes building a network of friends easier (no ulterior motives!).  I had previously had some panic/anxiety symptoms and have had none since I started, although I do have times when I am down.

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<much really good stuff snipped In my opinion (panic disorder for 27 years), what is important is for each of us to have a doctor who understands that each of us is fighting a problem that has a biological core and many psychological side effects.  

I think you’ve really encapsulated it well there, Tom. It seems to me that the worst doctor one can have is the type who has *one* cure which s/he applies universally and if it doesn’t work, the patient is at fault. The testimonies on ASAP alone bear witness to just how many different solutions there are. — Gary Cooper

Response:

My doctor is moving me from prozac to paxil; she is under the impression that paxil has an advantage over prozac in handling anxiety. I am not good at search the literature; can anyone confirm or deny my doctor’s impression (for one thing, I dread the change-over period). Kristin —                     Kristin Rachael Hayward                 http://130.111.120.13/~hayward

Hello All!! Happy Holidays! My personal experience has been that Paxil is much more effective against panic disorder than Prozac.  I also know many others who have benefitted from Prozac re panic attacks. I tried Prozac for a short while, and it actually <<induced panic attacks, even though I started out with a gradual, upward tapering dosage.  I have friends who felt very shaky and energized while starting Paxil, but I never experiened that set of side effects either. I think the lesson to be learned is that each of us has his/her own biochemistry and (to quote Dr. George Sheehan) "each of us is an experiment of one".  We all respond differently and need to be treated as such.  For me, Paxil has been an excellent anti-panic med and Prozac was a dismal failure.  For the next person, however, the reverse could be true.  I believe that the SSRI’s and the benzos (and the tricyclics-imipramine, etc) all have a place in treating panic disorder. In my opinion (panic disorder for 27 years), what is important is for each of us to have a doctor who understands that each of us is fighting a problem that has a biological core and many psychological side effects.   I wish all of you the best in 1997 Regards, Tom — *****TRG Technologies*****                                       Tom Getts-Principal Consultant                             Web Pages                      Database Services (specialty: Oracle) General Internet Consulting    Scientific Consulting http://www.trg-tech.com                                                                    

Response:

:       What is a therapeutic dose of PAXIL. I believe the standard therapeutic dosage for Paxil is 40mg, but you may end up on a higher or lower dosage depending on what is effective with tollerable side effects. I’m pretty comfortable at 30mg right now and may not have to move up to 40mg.                                         Best Wishes,                                         Arthur

Arthur Thanks I had a feeling 10 and 20 were low Did you get any REAL benefit at 10 or 20 (rather what did you feel happening ????) ie… No regular anxiety or just no PA ???? thanks …. John

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : : Arthur : : Thanks I had a feeling 10 and 20 were low : : Did you get any REAL benefit at 10 or 20 (rather what did you feel : happening ????) ie… No regular anxiety or just no PA ???? Well, I still have some anxiety problems at 30mg, but the PAs have stopped (I’m still celebrating that one!!!). Basically, I experienced increasing relief from the biologically caused anxiety as my dosage increased, but you can’t just get rid of all your anxiety with increased dosage. It’s natural to have some residue of psychological anxiety after experiencing severe anxiety or panic attacks, and this is best adressed with some form of psychotherapy. And let’s not forget, some degree of anxiety is simply part of a healthy mental state. The medications are a very important tool, but some of the work we just have to do ourselves.                                         Best Wishes,                                         Arthur

Thanks         I’ll keep in touch and let you now how its going John

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[snip Anyone have the address to Noodle's page?  I can never remember it. But, it has a lot of info about anxiety there! Good luck! JLS --

[snip] The URL is http://www.algy.com/anxiety/anxiety.html Best wishes, Hirsch address in header has been changed to avoid junk mail

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: : Arthur : : Thanks I had a feeling 10 and 20 were low : : Did you get any REAL benefit at 10 or 20 (rather what did you feel : happening ????) ie… No regular anxiety or just no PA ???? Well, I still have some anxiety problems at 30mg, but the PAs have stopped (I’m still celebrating that one!!!). Basically, I experienced increasing relief from the biologically caused anxiety as my dosage increased, but you can’t just get rid of all your anxiety with increased dosage. It’s natural to have some residue of psychological anxiety after experiencing severe anxiety or panic attacks, and this is best adressed with some form of psychotherapy. And let’s not forget, some degree of anxiety is simply part of a healthy mental state. The medications are a very important tool, but some of the work we just have to do ourselves.                                         Best Wishes,                                         Arthur

Response:

:       What is a therapeutic dose of PAXIL. I believe the standard therapeutic dosage for Paxil is 40mg, but you may end up on a higher or lower dosage depending on what is effective with tollerable side effects. I’m pretty comfortable at 30mg right now and may not have to move up to 40mg.                                         Best Wishes,                                         Arthur

Response:

My doctor is moving me from prozac to paxil; she is under the impression that paxil has an advantage over prozac in handling anxiety. I am not good at search the literature; can anyone confirm or deny my doctor’s impression (for one thing, I dread the change-over period). Kristin —                     Kristin Rachael Hayward                 http://130.111.120.13/~hayward

Kristin, I am on Paxil for anxiety, because I get really wound up, and the Dr. said it would take the edge off and calm me down.  My SO, who is bi-polar, is on Prozac, because he needs to be boosted up (He could sleep for days).  I feel better on Paxil, but it was the first med I have been on in years.  YOu can check the Anxiety Web Page to get more info. Anyone have the address to Noodle’s page?  I can never remember it. But, it has a lot of info about anxiety there! Good luck! JLS — "I’ve been searching for the Daughter of the Devil Himself, I’ve been searching for an Angel in White, I’ve been looking for a woman who’s a little of both, and I can feel her, but she’s no where in sight…"       Funny, I thought I heard someone was calling my name… http://www.winternet.com/~zodiac

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: My doctor is moving me from prozac to paxil; she is under the impression that : paxil has an advantage over prozac in handling anxiety. : : I am not good at search the literature; can anyone confirm or deny : my doctor’s impression (for one thing, I dread the change-over period). Hi Kristin, I think the most important question here is whether or not the prozac has significantly helped you? If you seem to be doing well on the prozac, then I don’t see much reason to change. However, if the prozac isn’t helping enough or if the prozac has unreliable affects, then paxil is certainly worth a try. I take paxil, but a close friend of mine takes prozac for anxiety. As long as the prozac works well for him, I wouldn’t encourage him to change. As far as I know, the only reason to prefer paxil over prozac is that, in general, people respond more reliably to paxil. Prozac may be harder to predict, but when it works for someone it seems to work as well as paxil.                                         Best Wishes,                                         Arthur

Response:

My doctor is moving me from prozac to paxil; she is under the impression that paxil has an advantage over prozac in handling anxiety. I am not good at search the literature; can anyone confirm or deny my doctor’s impression (for one thing, I dread the change-over period). Kristin —                    Kristin Rachael Hayward                http://130.111.120.13/~hayward

Technically, Paxil has been approved by the FDA for anxiety treatment, while Prozac has not. Practically, both are used, and the responses to meds vary greatly from person to person.  The question you need to ask about the Prozac is:  Is it working??  If the Prozac has relieved your anxiety, why change??  OTOH, if you are still having problems with anxiety even after giving Prozac a chance to work, then Paxil is a reasonable alternative.  There is no one right med for anxiety, and finding the one that works best for you often involves trial and error. Please bear in mind that any of the SRI meds  (which include Prozac and PAxil) will take several weeks before they will have any effect on anxiety.  Also, it is worth noting that one of the possible side effects of these meds is an _increase_  in anxiety in the early stages.  You can get around this, if it’s a problem, by starting at a very low dose, and then working up to the therapeutic dose.  Also, a short-term prescription for a benzodiazepine can also help reduce anxiety in starting an SRI. Hope this helps, Hirsch address in header has been changed to avoid junk mail

Response:

Please bear in mind that any of the SRI meds  (which include Prozac and PAxil) will take several weeks before they will have any effect on anxiety.  Also, it is worth noting that one of the possible side effects of these meds is an _increase_  in anxiety in the early stages.  You can get around this, if it’s a problem, by starting at a very low dose, and then working up to the therapeutic dose.  Also, a short-term prescription for a benzodiazepine can also help reduce anxiety in starting an SRI. Hope this helps, Hirsch address in header has been changed to avoid junk mail

PMJI,         What is a therapeutic dose of PAXIL.  I had a major PA ( had to get out of the car and calm down ) on a trip to new York one Sunday a month and a half ago and after that incident the next week was hell even had problems driving alone, then went to see a Psychiatrist he prescribed the PAXIL. after that could drive alone a little better.  I started at 10mg for a month and felt a only slightly better. On Sunday I moved up to 20mgs and then On Christmas eve I had to drive the family and our au-pare 45 mins away and although I had pins and needles in my hands and mild anxiesty i finished the trip up with no major problems,  once there no problemns and on the way home only  slight anxiety. ( better I think???) now I am wondering what to expect and what is the dose….. Thanks John A quiet sufferer for 15 years……

Response:

My doctor is moving me from prozac to paxil; she is under the impression that paxil has an advantage over prozac in handling anxiety. I am not good at search the literature; can anyone confirm or deny my doctor’s impression (for one thing, I dread the change-over period). Kristin —                     Kristin Rachael Hayward                 http://130.111.120.13/~hayward

Response:

My doctor is moving me from prozac to paxil; she is under the impression that paxil has an advantage over prozac in handling anxiety. I am not good at search the literature; can anyone confirm or deny my doctor’s impression (for one thing, I dread the change-over period).

If I recall, Paxil has US approval for anxiety problems – but I’m not sure whether that means it’s any better as such. As I understand it, it just means the manufacturer has bothered to get it approved for that purpose. Anecdotally, I have heard it claimed that it is better for this use than Prozac, but I’m not aware of any studies that prove that. If Prozac hasn’t been ‘doing the trick’, it’s a popular alternative though. Good luck with it! — Gary Cooper

Response:

Question:

Im looking for any information regarding results people have found using Manerix or other antidepressants for treating Panic

Response:

Im looking for any information regarding results people have found using Manerix or other antidepressants for treating Panic

Manerix is one of the so-called "reversible" MAOI antidepressants. The main advantage it seems to have over traditional MAOIs (Nardil and Parnate) is that it doesn’t impose the hefty food restrictions they do. Against that, it seems to have picked up a reputation for not being very wonderful against PD, though *some* have reported successes with it so it might be worth a try. I was on it for a few months. They were the most expensive M&Ms I’ve ever bought — Gary Cooper

Response:

Marks) writes: Org.  : York University Im looking for any information regarding results people have found using Manerix or other antidepressants for treating Panic

Dear Brad (?), Hello, and welcome to ASAP! Depending on what you want the info for, you may have to be a little more specific… I monitor this group fairly regularly, and would hazard a conservative guess that at least 50% of us are on some sort of antidepressant. Some are on the older types (e.g., imiprimine, etc.) while many others are on the newer SSRI’s (Prozac, Zoloft, Effexor, etc.) Some take an antidepressant alone, others take a combination of antidepressant plus a benzodiazapine …again, the benzos seem to range from good ol’ Valium to newer things like Xanax (alprazolam) or Rivotril (called Klonopin in the U.S., available here in Canada as generic "clonazapam".) Still others take only the benzo with no antidepressant. In this, as in so many areas of life, the watchword is YMMV (your mileage may vary.) For example, I take .5 mg Rivotril (clonazapam) and 10 mg imiprimine once a day, at bedtime, which seems to keep my panic attacks at bay. My doc has suggested a switch to Zoloft and gradually dropping the Rivotril, but I’m foot-dragging… partly due to fear of change (and possibly having to experience a flood of panic attacks) and partly due to the increased $$ I will have to spend on meds if I decide to switch. Hope this helps, Jane. —

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