Question:

Can Azmacort cause swelling ankles?  I get at least 40 minutes of exercise a day so it is not inactivity (plus a toddler).

Response:

Can Azmacort cause swelling ankles?  I get at least 40 minutes of exercise a day so it is not inactivity (plus a toddler).

I had a swollen face (moon face) from using High Dose Azmacort for 3 months; so I would think it might be responsible; any such effect is dose dependent and time dependent. Azmacort seems to have more severe side effects than other steroid inhalers; also it’s singled out as the steroid inhaler for pregnant women to avoid, in an article at the JAMA asthma site. So it would be worth trying switching to another steroid inhaler. I find that Vanceril DS doesn’t cause this problem for me. Even better would be the new generation steroid inhalers, Flovent and Pulmicort. There are other things that can cause swollen ankles. Ellis

Response:

Can Azmacort cause swelling ankles?  I get at least 40 minutes of exercise a day so it is not inactivity (plus a toddler).

My son has ankle and other joint pain whenever he is on steroids.  The higher the dose, the more intense the symptoms Hulahoops

Response:

Can Azmacort cause swelling ankles?  I get at least 40 minutes of exercise a day so it is not inactivity (plus a toddler).

You would be wise to check with your doctor.  I don’t mean to alarm you, but swollen ankles and shortness of breath are symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure. It would be a good idea to have this ruled out.

Response:

Question:

Does anyone else find doctor visits nerve wracking and depressing, especially when you have to go because you’re feeling worse?

Oh YES! I think it comes after years of having hope built up and then shattered. I also worry that the doctors are as frustrated with me as *I* am. I worry they will send me to psychiatry. ((((((Elahn One))))))) Debbie <<

Response:

Does anyone else find doctor visits nerve wracking and depressing, especially when you have to go because you’re feeling worse?

Response:

Yes, and also add to that extremely frustrating when you feel that they are saying to themseles, I wish this person would just go away, we are running out of options… Kristen Leigh

Response:

Yes, and also add to that extremely frustrating when you feel that they are saying to themseles, I wish this person would just go away, we are running out of options… Kristen Leigh

Some of you may know my long saga with my HMO and the hospital I work with. I won’t repeat it here, but my primary care doc, who also happens to be the first person to treat my asthma years ago has really turned on me.  I tried a few other primary docs within the group I have to choose from and had such horrid experiences, that I finally went back to my old doc.  He knows I changed around on him and he has been a real pill this last few months even when calling for routine refills on prescriptions. A few months ago, I called to schedule an appointment to discuss taking up scuba diving.  He would not even see me. He just had his nurse call back and say "Absolutely NOT!  No one with asthma should scuba dive."  I have since found out this is an old school of thought and I "might" be able to take it up. Then, I called for a refill on Serevent and Flovent – my asthma meds and just asked if I could try Singulair instead as I had heard it was better for migraine patients.  He said "You heard wrong."  No explanations.   Now I would really like to go in and discuss a trial of Topamax instead of waiting for my insurance change to take effect later this year which will allow me to go to a doctor that I choose.  My migraines are escalating once again and I am absolutely terrified of talking to this guy.  He is the gatekeeper for any referrals I might get.  The only neuro he is allowed to refer me to is a buddy of his that put me on Depakote and kept upping the dose in spite of my saying the tremors were getting bad.  He never once mentioned checking liver function tests.  Finally during a scheduled appointment that he was called away on, another neuro in the group caught the Depakote problem  and took me off it – naturally, she has since left the group and moved out of state – due to difference of opinion. I hate this feeling of knowing my doctor thinks I am a total waste of his time.  He sighs and shakes his head and the last time I was in his office was when he told me I was just depressed and he could not help me.  I have since been told differently by a psychiatrist and counselor I went to because of this doctor visit.  I feel so helpless and I hate it. Red

Response:

Red: I really feel for you.  So sorry you’re having to go through all this. Doctors can be such jerks at times. A necessary evil.  I think they get insecure when we know more than they do. I will say a special prayer for you tonight. Take Care. Love, Caroline.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yes, and also add to that extremely frustrating when you feel that they are saying to themseles, I wish this person would just go away, we are running out of options… Kristen Leigh Some of you may know my long saga with my HMO and the hospital I work with. I won’t repeat it here, but my primary care doc, who also happens to be the first person to treat my asthma years ago has really turned on me.  I tried a few other primary docs within the group I have to choose from and had such horrid experiences, that I finally went back to my old doc.  He knows I changed around on him and he has been a real pill this last few months even when calling for routine refills on prescriptions. A few months ago, I called to schedule an appointment to discuss taking up scuba diving.  He would not even see me. He just had his nurse call back and say "Absolutely NOT!  No one with asthma should scuba dive."  I have since found out this is an old school of thought and I "might" be able to take it up. Then, I called for a refill on Serevent and Flovent – my asthma meds and just asked if I could try Singulair instead as I had heard it was better for migraine patients.  He said "You heard wrong."  No explanations. Now I would really like to go in and discuss a trial of Topamax instead of waiting for my insurance change to take effect later this year which will allow me to go to a doctor that I choose.  My migraines are escalating once again and I am absolutely terrified of talking to this guy.  He is the gatekeeper for any referrals I might get.  The only neuro he is allowed to refer me to is a buddy of his that put me on Depakote and kept upping the dose in spite of my saying the tremors were getting bad.  He never once mentioned checking liver function tests.  Finally during a scheduled appointment that he was called away on, another neuro in the group caught the Depakote problem  and took me off it – naturally, she has since left the group and moved out of state – due to difference of opinion. I hate this feeling of knowing my doctor thinks I am a total waste of his time.  He sighs and shakes his head and the last time I was in his office was when he told me I was just depressed and he could not help me.  I have since been told differently by a psychiatrist and counselor I went to because of this doctor visit.  I feel so helpless and I hate it. Red

Response:

Many a patient is better informed and actually smarter than their doctor(s). They’re probably afraid of being manipulated on some level.

Response:

One of the things that vexes me the most about doctor visits is the lectures they give me when I have to cancel an appt due to a raging (10+) migraine….they always tell me that that’s the best time to come in. They don’t seem to understand that when the pain reaches that level, the thought of being jostled about in a car for 20 minutes, only to wait for over 2 hours in a loud brightly lit room, to see the doc for 15 minutes can exacerbate the pain to the point where I want to cry or scream or collapse and puke my guts out. And considering how stressful and infuriorating doc visits can be, that’s the last thing I need at such a point. Raven "Don’t think of it as dying, think of it as leaving early to avoid the rush."

Response:

Why do they think it’s a good time to go in?  I always feel like my dr is vexed with me because I can’t focus on the question and I give fuzzy answers, and then I can’t remember most of the visit anyway.  Seems like a waste of both of our times.  Oh and there is the lovely "shining of the pen light in your eyes thingy!"  I’m with you Raven. Dawn – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – One of the things that vexes me the most about doctor visits is the lectures they give me when I have to cancel an appt due to a raging (10+) migraine….they always tell me that that’s the best time to come in. They don’t seem to understand that when the pain reaches that level, the thought of being jostled about in a car for 20 minutes, only to wait for over 2 hours in a loud brightly lit room, to see the doc for 15 minutes can exacerbate the pain to the point where I want to cry or scream or collapse and puke my guts out. And considering how stressful and infuriorating doc visits can be, that’s the last thing I need at such a point. Raven "Don’t think of it as dying, think of it as leaving early to avoid the rush."

Response:

I went to the ER once for a migraine cause it was the worst one I’ve ever had.  They gave me my first Imitrex injection.  I couldn’t take anything else because of the vomiting.  It was horrible.  Riding in the car, motion sickness added to the nausea.  Then when I got to the brightly lit hospital, there were babies crying…loud.  I was filling out paperwork FIRST before I could see the doc and I had to leave in the middle of the paperwork to go puke for the 3rd time!  Then I had to go back and finish the paperwork and I finally saw a doctor.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Why do they think it’s a good time to go in?  I always feel like my dr is vexed with me because I can’t focus on the question and I give fuzzy answers, and then I can’t remember most of the visit anyway. Seems like a waste of both of our times.  Oh and there is the lovely "shining of the pen light in your eyes thingy!"  I’m with you Raven. Dawn One of the things that vexes me the most about doctor visits is the lectures they give me when I have to cancel an appt due to a raging (10+) migraine….they always tell me that that’s the best time to come in. They don’t seem to understand that when the pain reaches that level, the thought of being jostled about in a car for 20 minutes, only to wait for over 2 hours in a loud brightly lit room, to see the doc for 15 minutes can exacerbate the pain to the point where I want to cry or scream or collapse and puke my guts out. And considering how stressful and infuriorating doc visits can be, that’s the last thing I need at such a point. Raven "Don’t think of it as dying, think of it as leaving early to avoid the rush."

Response:

Question:

The answer is a maybe. It depends in part on whatever other medications she is taking, such as aspirin, or anything else. Look up the Physicians Desk Reference, latest or recent editions. If your local public library doesn’t have it, visit a medical library (hospital or medical school). You can also search on the internet. If your daughter is drinking herb teas, ginseng and ginko biloba contain a blood thinner (coumodin aka warfarin).  I developed this problem a few weeks back. this was due to the heart medicines I am taking. Using a water pick twice a day cleared up the problem for me.. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -My daughter has exercise induced asthma (she is on her high school track team) and has started Serevent (once daily) and Flovent (110, once/day) about 4 weeks ago. Could either of these cause bleeding of the gums?  The package insert of Serevent has "dental pain" and the Flovent has "dental problem". Any information would be greatly appreciated. TIA, Pam

Response:

I had extreme reactions to serevent – like I was on super speed, even tho I can use ventolin with little effect. I almost lost my job I was so hyped up! But yes, also rinse after using any cortisone inhaler. ehansen – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I use Advair, the combo of Serevent & Flovent. My doctor told me to rinse with mouthwash after using or it can cause mouth sores. – Sounded fishy to me until I got one & that was with rinsing! It wasn’t on the gums, though and went away within a couple days. My doc told me to rinse longer. Now, I also brush after every dose and I haven’t a problem with that since.

Response:

I had extreme reactions to serevent – like I was on super speed, even tho I can use ventolin with little effect.

This is an interesting tidbit.  I have low blood pressure, low body temperature, and also sometimes have a problem with depression (around periods).  I noticed that I’m feeling much more alert since I’ve been on Advair — like it also changed something that was causing me to get fatigued easily (like not breathing).  Now I’m wondering if it’s just a drug effect on my nervous system rather than the breathing relief.  Anyone else with some information on this?  How can I tell, I wonder? I’ve been drinking water after using Advair, but now I’m wondering if I really should be brushing my teeth immediately after each use. –Jane

Response:

If your daughter is not using an Aerochamber, get one. Serevent caused me bad headaches. I’ve used Flovent for many years without any side effects. regards, Kurt

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My daughter has exercise induced asthma (she is on her high school track team) and has started Serevent (once daily) and Flovent (110, once/day) about 4 weeks ago. Could either of these cause bleeding of the gums?  The package insert of Serevent has "dental pain" and the Flovent has "dental problem". Any information would be greatly appreciated. TIA, Pam

Response:

I use Advair, the combo of Serevent & Flovent. My doctor told me to rinse with mouthwash after using or it can cause mouth sores. – Sounded fishy to me until I got one & that was with rinsing! It wasn’t on the gums, though and went away within a couple days. My doc told me to rinse longer. Now, I also brush after every dose and I haven’t a problem with that since.

Response:

If she’s new to using an inhaler she could be getting medicine where it’s not intended to go in any significant quantity.  Getting most of the medicine into one’s lungs just takes practice.  The drill is to exhale completely, taking as long as necessary to force out all the air in the lungs.  Then start to inhaler and, just after you’ve started sucking in air, push the plunger on the inhaler while still inhaling hard. I find I often cough after I do this with no medication at all – it’s just the deep breathing that makes me cough – so I do one or two practice runs until I stop coughing before I take a "live" run with inhaler. -S- – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My daughter has exercise induced asthma (she is on her high school track team) and has started Serevent (once daily) and Flovent (110, once/day) about 4 weeks ago. Could either of these cause bleeding of the gums?  The package insert of Serevent has "dental pain" and the Flovent has "dental problem". Any information would be greatly appreciated. TIA, Pam

Response:

My daughter has exercise induced asthma (she is on her high school track team) and has started Serevent (once daily) and Flovent (110, once/day) about 4 weeks ago. Could either of these cause bleeding of the gums?  The package insert of Serevent has "dental pain" and the Flovent has "dental problem". Any information would be greatly appreciated. TIA, Pam

Response:

My daughter has exercise induced asthma (she is on her high school track team) and has started Serevent (once daily) and Flovent (110, once/day) about 4 weeks ago. Could either of these cause bleeding of the gums?  The package insert of Serevent has "dental pain" and the Flovent has "dental problem". Any information would be greatly appreciated. TIA, Pam

Doubtful; however side effects from MDI inhalers can be greatly reduced by using a spacer, the Aerochamber is popular; and rinsing mouth with water after inhaling. Are you sure the bleeding is from the gums, and not further down? For example, sometimes heavy coughing can irritate the throat and cause some bleeding with traces of blood in the sputum. [tell your doctor] Maybe the dentist should take a look at the gums; my dentist recommended vit C supplements along with proper brushing. Ellis

Response:

Question:

        I’ve been on Effexor XR for a little over a month now.  I started with three days at 30-odd mg and then eleven days at 75mg, and have been at 150mg for the two weeks or so after that.  For shits and giggles, I decided not to take my fat pillie for just one day.         Well, I made it through my day without feeling too shabby.  I learned how to drive a manual transmission and was otherwise productive.   Then, came the night.         Every time I fell asleep, I’d get this strong feeling that an electrical pulse was being sent into my back and neck.  I’d fall asleep, feel like I was shocked a few times, then wake up and ask myself, "What the hell was that?"             These weren’t mild sensations.  Rather, it felt like the work of a cheap stun-gun or one of those electric weight-loss belts cranked up to eleven.           Now, when my friend had told me he went through some bad times coming off of Effexor, I hadn’t imagined anything like this.  I’ve never had such a strong and violent response from simply NOT taking something.   It seems especially odd because I’ve only been on the stuff for a month and change.  But now that I’ve read more about Effexor, I know it can only get worse from here.             I don’t have a point really, and I don’t have a moral.  I have a definite problem with depression, and I need something to help me operate on a socially functional level, but now I’m a little scared of what the future has in store for me if I ever, heaven forbid, go longer than one day without my fix.  I think I ought to force myself off of this drug ASAP and save myself from a possibly much wackier and even more extreme withdrawal process months or years down the line.         Oh well, at least it doesn’t make me impotent, right? -Jon

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been on Effexor XR for a little over a month now.  I started with three days at 30-odd mg and then eleven days at 75mg, and have been at 150mg for the two weeks or so after that.  For shits and giggles, I decided not to take my fat pillie for just one day. Well, I made it through my day without feeling too shabby.  I learned how to drive a manual transmission and was otherwise productive. Then, came the night. Every time I fell asleep, I’d get this strong feeling that an electrical pulse was being sent into my back and neck.  I’d fall asleep, feel like I was shocked a few times, then wake up and ask myself, "What the hell was that?" These weren’t mild sensations.  Rather, it felt like the work of a cheap stun-gun or one of those electric weight-loss belts cranked up to eleven.   Now, when my friend had told me he went through some bad times coming off of Effexor, I hadn’t imagined anything like this.  I’ve never had such a strong and violent response from simply NOT taking something. It seems especially odd because I’ve only been on the stuff for a month and change.  But now that I’ve read more about Effexor, I know it can only get worse from here. I don’t have a point really, and I don’t have a moral.  I have a definite problem with depression, and I need something to help me operate on a socially functional level, but now I’m a little scared of what the future has in store for me if I ever, heaven forbid, go longer than one day without my fix.  I think I ought to force myself off of this drug ASAP and save myself from a possibly much wackier and even more extreme withdrawal process months or years down the line. Oh well, at least it doesn’t make me impotent, right? -Jon

If you punch in "effexor" on yahoo, you will get some links to sites that might offer you some help on xr withdrawal. There is an anti-nausia drug reported to help some patients ease off this drug more effectively. If you have found anymore help for withdrawal, please let us know. More and more people are reporting this same difficulty of going through withdrawal "hell" from effexor xr and have had to return taking it again just to function. Wyeth, the manufacturer knows about this and have posted more info on their site about tapering off this med. Hope this helps. Thanx Steveb

Response:

I’ve had the same experience.  But I have decided to stay on Effexor because it is the best AD out there for my type of depression. — John Lundquist —-

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been on Effexor XR for a little over a month now.  I started with three days at 30-odd mg and then eleven days at 75mg, and have been at 150mg for the two weeks or so after that.  For shits and giggles, I decided not to take my fat pillie for just one day. Well, I made it through my day without feeling too shabby.  I learned how to drive a manual transmission and was otherwise productive. Then, came the night. Every time I fell asleep, I’d get this strong feeling that an electrical pulse was being sent into my back and neck.  I’d fall asleep, feel like I was shocked a few times, then wake up and ask myself, "What the hell was that?" These weren’t mild sensations.  Rather, it felt like the work of a cheap stun-gun or one of those electric weight-loss belts cranked up to eleven. Now, when my friend had told me he went through some bad times coming off of Effexor, I hadn’t imagined anything like this.  I’ve never had such a strong and violent response from simply NOT taking something. It seems especially odd because I’ve only been on the stuff for a month and change.  But now that I’ve read more about Effexor, I know it can only get worse from here. I don’t have a point really, and I don’t have a moral.  I have a definite problem with depression, and I need something to help me operate on a socially functional level, but now I’m a little scared of what the future has in store for me if I ever, heaven forbid, go longer than one day without my fix.  I think I ought to force myself off of this drug ASAP and save myself from a possibly much wackier and even more extreme withdrawal process months or years down the line. Oh well, at least it doesn’t make me impotent, right? -Jon

Response:

I’ve been on Effexor XR for a little over a month now.  I started with three days at 30-odd mg and then eleven days at 75mg, and have been at 150mg for the two weeks or so after that.  For shits and giggles, I decided not to take my fat pillie for just one day. Well, I made it through my day without feeling too shabby.  I learned how to drive a manual transmission and was otherwise productive.   Then, came the night. Every time I fell asleep, I’d get this strong feeling that an electrical pulse was being sent into my back and neck.  I’d fall asleep, feel like I was shocked a few times, then wake up and ask myself, "What the hell was that…

Other people have reported "shocks" when withdrawing from Effexor and other antidepressants.  I quit Effexor XR 150mg cold turkey 1.5 weeks ago because my blood pressure was dangerously high.  So far I have not experienced ANY withdrawal symptoms.  My blood pressure is a bit lower but it may be because I also laid off most of the caffeine.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    I’ve been on Effexor XR for a little over a month now.  I started with three days at 30-odd mg and then eleven days at 75mg, and have been at 150mg for the two weeks or so after that.  For shits and giggles, I decided not to take my fat pillie for just one day.    Well, I made it through my day without feeling too shabby.  I learned how to drive a manual transmission and was otherwise productive.   Then, came the night.    Every time I fell asleep, I’d get this strong feeling that an electrical pulse was being sent into my back and neck.  I’d fall asleep, feel like I was shocked a few times, then wake up and ask myself, "What the hell was that?"        These weren’t mild sensations.  Rather, it felt like the work of a cheap stun-gun or one of those electric weight-loss belts cranked up to eleven.      Now, when my friend had told me he went through some bad times coming off of Effexor, I hadn’t imagined anything like this.  I’ve never had such a strong and violent response from simply NOT taking something.   It seems especially odd because I’ve only been on the stuff for a month and change.  But now that I’ve read more about Effexor, I know it can only get worse from here.        I don’t have a point really, and I don’t have a moral.  I have a definite problem with depression, and I need something to help me operate on a socially functional level, but now I’m a little scared of what the future has in store for me if I ever, heaven forbid, go longer than one day without my fix.  I think I ought to force myself off of this drug ASAP and save myself from a possibly much wackier and even more extreme withdrawal process months or years down the line.    Oh well, at least it doesn’t make me impotent, right? -Jon

I was on Effexor XR 150mg for over a year, and suffered no memorable withdrawal symptoms when I d/c’ed.  Of course, I did taper off rather than going cold turkey, so maybe that helped.  Over a year later, I had another run-in with your friend and mine, the big "D", and now I’m on Zoloft 100mg.  From my personal experience, I would recommend either of these ADs to anyone, but would also suggest that they follow their doc’s instructions carefully. Andy

Response:

        Alright guys, I guess I’ve got a lot to think about.  Thanks for your input. -Jon

Response:

in general when stopping medication cold turkey one should expect withdrawal symptoms i have heard a lot of complaints from people who have stopped taking their medication abruptly…. however the simple solution to this is to not stop taking your medication abruptly if anyone has tapered off and still found themselves unable to escape severe withdrawal symptoms, i would like to hear it

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been on Effexor XR for a little over a month now.  I started with three days at 30-odd mg and then eleven days at 75mg, and have been at 150mg for the two weeks or so after that.  For shits and giggles, I decided not to take my fat pillie for just one day. Well, I made it through my day without feeling too shabby.  I learned how to drive a manual transmission and was otherwise productive. Then, came the night. Every time I fell asleep, I’d get this strong feeling that an electrical pulse was being sent into my back and neck.  I’d fall asleep, feel like I was shocked a few times, then wake up and ask myself, "What the hell was that?" These weren’t mild sensations.  Rather, it felt like the work of a cheap stun-gun or one of those electric weight-loss belts cranked up to eleven. Now, when my friend had told me he went through some bad times coming off of Effexor, I hadn’t imagined anything like this.  I’ve never had such a strong and violent response from simply NOT taking something. It seems especially odd because I’ve only been on the stuff for a month and change.  But now that I’ve read more about Effexor, I know it can only get worse from here. I don’t have a point really, and I don’t have a moral.  I have a definite problem with depression, and I need something to help me operate on a socially functional level, but now I’m a little scared of what the future has in store for me if I ever, heaven forbid, go longer than one day without my fix.  I think I ought to force myself off of this drug ASAP and save myself from a possibly much wackier and even more extreme withdrawal process months or years down the line. Oh well, at least it doesn’t make me impotent, right? -Jon

Response:

I tapered off Effexor XR with what seemed to be an entirely reasonably schedule, from 225 mg/day to 150 for a week, 75 for a week, 37.5 for a week, then half of that for a few days.  Have been experiencing all the symptoms mentioned below ever since, about 2 weeks.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – in general when stopping medication cold turkey one should expect withdrawal symptoms i have heard a lot of complaints from people who have stopped taking their medication abruptly…. however the simple solution to this is to not stop taking your medication abruptly if anyone has tapered off and still found themselves unable to escape severe withdrawal symptoms, i would like to hear it I’ve been on Effexor XR for a little over a month now.  I started with three days at 30-odd mg and then eleven days at 75mg, and have been at 150mg for the two weeks or so after that.  For shits and giggles, I decided not to take my fat pillie for just one day. Well, I made it through my day without feeling too shabby.  I learned how to drive a manual transmission and was otherwise productive. Then, came the night. Every time I fell asleep, I’d get this strong feeling that an electrical pulse was being sent into my back and neck.  I’d fall asleep, feel like I was shocked a few times, then wake up and ask myself, "What the hell was that?" These weren’t mild sensations.  Rather, it felt like the work of a cheap stun-gun or one of those electric weight-loss belts cranked up to eleven. Now, when my friend had told me he went through some bad times coming off of Effexor, I hadn’t imagined anything like this.  I’ve never had such a strong and violent response from simply NOT taking something. It seems especially odd because I’ve only been on the stuff for a month and change.  But now that I’ve read more about Effexor, I know it can only get worse from here. I don’t have a point really, and I don’t have a moral.  I have a definite problem with depression, and I need something to help me operate on a socially functional level, but now I’m a little scared of what the future has in store for me if I ever, heaven forbid, go longer than one day without my fix.  I think I ought to force myself off of this drug ASAP and save myself from a possibly much wackier and even more extreme withdrawal process months or years down the line. Oh well, at least it doesn’t make me impotent, right? -Jon

Response:

okay i do feel bad for you… my doc told me to take clonazepam… and it worked wonders maybe you should ask your doc – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I tapered off Effexor XR with what seemed to be an entirely reasonably schedule, from 225 mg/day to 150 for a week, 75 for a week, 37.5 for a week, then half of that for a few days.  Have been experiencing all the symptoms mentioned below ever since, about 2 weeks.

Response:

Question:

Thanks for the link, Matt…this really is just plain scary, though.  I also think that my doc was stupid to give me a pill that may cause insomnia…I do’nt sleep as it is. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My advice: Follow your doctor’s instructions. If you experience any troubling side effects, ask your doctor about them. You can also look up Zoloft at www.webmd.com. The site has lists of possible side effects, warnings, and advice on what to do if you experience a particular side effect. I have experienced many of the common (and some less common) side effects of Zoloft. Right now the side effects don’t bother me much, but when I took a higher dose the side effects were very troubling. I hope Zoloft will help you, without any serious side effects. Finding the right meds and the right dose can take time. Good luck.

Response:

i’m panicking, freaking out, experiencing fight or flight feelings without reason, whatever the hell you want to call it… drink your water and breathe, Angela…breathe…in and out…nice deep breaths. Reason #1 why I never take pills: fear of adverse reactions

My advice: Follow your doctor’s instructions. If you experience any troubling side effects, ask your doctor about them. You can also look up Zoloft at www.webmd.com. The site has lists of possible side effects, warnings, and advice on what to do if you experience a particular side effect. I have experienced many of the common (and some less common) side effects of Zoloft. Right now the side effects don’t bother me much, but when I took a higher dose the side effects were very troubling. I hope Zoloft will help you, without any serious side effects. Finding the right meds and the right dose can take time. Good luck.

Response:

Even if something happens, the overwhelming chances are that it won’t be anywhere near as bad as the other inconveniences in life we put up with, colds, flu, hangovers, infections, etc.  It’s a walk in the park compared to those.

I suppose. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Bruce.

Response:

Yeah…I’m just freaked.  I’m still a little bit worried, but not as badly as I was.  Thanks, bruce.

Even if something happens, the overwhelming chances are that it won’t be anywhere near as bad as the other inconveniences in life we put up with, colds, flu, hangovers, infections, etc.  It’s a walk in the park compared to those. Bruce.

Response:

Once my depression got bad enough, my fear was of NOT taking them. Bruce.

Yeah…I’m just freaked.  I’m still a little bit worried, but not as badly as I was.  Thanks, bruce. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

Reason #1 why I never take pills: fear of adverse reactions

Once my depression got bad enough, my fear was of NOT taking them. Bruce.

Response:

Try to look at the odds of having an adverse reaction. I think you’ll find they are very very low. You have more danger from accidents and other things than from this medication.

Thanks, Stan.  I feel a little better now.  I talked to some people on the phone…not about this, but it dissipated my fear, distracted me from it. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hugs Stan

Response:

i’m panicking, freaking out, experiencing fight or flight feelings without reason, whatever the hell you want to call it… drink your water and breathe, Angela…breathe…in and out…nice deep breaths. Reason #1 why I never take pills: fear of adverse reactions

Try to look at the odds of having an adverse reaction. I think you’ll find they are very very low. You have more danger from accidents and other things than from this medication. Hugs Stan

Response:

i’m panicking, freaking out, experiencing fight or flight feelings without reason, whatever the hell you want to call it… drink your water and breathe, Angela…breathe…in and out…nice deep breaths. Reason #1 why I never take pills: fear of adverse reactions

Response:

Question:

Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa

Response:

OMG I wrote bowel instead of bowl!!!!!!! Guess what I have on my mind! Red Faced and Cramped, Zedexa

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa

Response:

Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa

I’m so sorry you aren’t feeling well Zedexa!  I wish I could help you with the side effects of Zoloft, but I was only on it for one or two days, I think, and that was 5 yrs. ago.  I hope you feel better soon! Hugs, Di

Response:

That’s always awful to suffer through, I’m sorry to hear your reacting that way!  Since you’ve been on the Zoloft and this was just an increase, hopefully it should clear up in a few days.  Maybe you have a stomach bug? The cramping sounds like it could be. Take care of yourself and drink plenty of fluids!  :) -Alan — Alan Derrick

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa I’m so sorry you aren’t feeling well Zedexa!  I wish I could help you with the side effects of Zoloft, but I was only on it for one or two days, I think, and that was 5 yrs. ago.  I hope you feel better soon! Hugs, Di

Response:

Hi Zedexa, I was very worried about this possible side effect, since my trigger on the anxiety was bowel related problems.  What I have done and been very religious about, is make sure I get loads of fiber in the diet.  I take care of this easily with All Bran cereal (you have to mix it up with another cereal you will actually like, or put other stuff in it).  I noticed a slight "loosening" of things when I began the zoloft, but have not had any D (knock on toilet bowl).  I’ve read that the bowel is a muscle, and in order to work it out, we need the fiber in there so it has something to clamp down on.  Maybe this will help. Mary

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – That’s always awful to suffer through, I’m sorry to hear your reacting that way!  Since you’ve been on the Zoloft and this was just an increase, hopefully it should clear up in a few days.  Maybe you have a stomach bug? The cramping sounds like it could be. Take care of yourself and drink plenty of fluids!  :) -Alan — Alan Derrick Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa I’m so sorry you aren’t feeling well Zedexa!  I wish I could help you with the side effects of Zoloft, but I was only on it for one or two days, I think, and that was 5 yrs. ago.  I hope you feel better soon! Hugs, Di

Response:

Ok what is with Zoloft? I am constantly on the bowel. At this rate I’ll be the next Twiggy! Is it my nerves or what? I have been on Zoloft (100mg) for five years now and I was alright. I never experienced this kind of cramping and explosion before! Since the increase of Zoloft (50mg) all I have to say is, "LORD HELP ME." Anyway, gotta run (you know where!) Zedexa

Hi Zedexa, Zoloft, like all SSRIs, alters the movement of serotonin. While its target is the small amount used by the brain, it also affects serotonin pathways in the body. Most serotonin is actually made/used by the gut (about 95%), another few percent is found in blood vessels and the skin also contains some, especially if its injured (burns/sunburn/infection etc). It should settle down. If you have upped the dose by 50mg in one go, then you might want to cut back and ramp it up more slowly. However, get your doc to check on this, it may be something else. Probably not, but you never know. And if it becomes an ongoing problem, then  consider changing to a tricyclic. But, be warned, they usually cause the opposite effect – constipation. Good luck                                               Zu

Response:

Question:

First, you should never ever stop taking your meds "cold turkey"  You must be weened off by your doc. I quit taking zoloft after I was in remission and then I started on a downward spiral. I’m back on thank God. I don’t know how long you took them , but it can take up to several months to feel an effect. Regardless, if it is not working, your doc can help you switch to something else. Lia

Response:

I had no side effects with Dothiepin except cotton-mouth. My friend was on mega-doses of Doxepin as well with no major side effects except for yours but he was able to counter it with a fibre supplement. The *tryptyline drugs are some of the older tricyclics, maybe a newer one would work without the problems. Still, getting a doctor to prescibe it can be an issue. I argued with mine about it but she seems sold on the SSRI’s. The point is moot now as I haven’t had anything for months. Regards, Trevor Ida Kern <clooney…@mindspring.com

wrote in message

news:7if9pn$jv4$1@nntp4.atl.mindspring.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Trevor Lampre <tlam…@camtech.net.au

wrote in message

> > I liked good old Dothiepin for depression but it’s no longer part > > of the in-crowd as it is a tricyclic not an SSRI. I’ve not seen tricyclics

mentioned much in terms of OCD. Me neither. However, one of the best drugs I have ever taken has been Pamelor (Nortriptyline), which is a tricylic. I slept well and ate well and did

not

obsess. Unfortunately, it’s major side effect was that it prevented me from taking

a

healthy constitutional! I tried everything I could think of to stay on

this

medicine but the side effects overwhelmed me and I had to switch to a

SSRI.

They help, but I loved the Pamelor. Ida

Response:

Trevor Lampre <tlam…@camtech.net.au

wrote in message I liked good old Dothiepin for depression but it’s no longer part of the in-crowd as it is a tricyclic not an SSRI. I’ve not seen tricyclics mentioned much in terms of OCD.

Me neither. However, one of the best drugs I have ever taken has been Pamelor (Nortriptyline), which is a tricylic. I slept well and ate well and did not obsess. Unfortunately, it’s major side effect was that it prevented me from taking a healthy constitutional! I tried everything I could think of to stay on this medicine but the side effects overwhelmed me and I had to switch to a SSRI. They help, but I loved the Pamelor. Ida

Response:

hugs wrapped in a hug: ( kbeth (kb…@asan.com) wrote:

: *HUGS* : -kbeth    ) : On Tue, 25 May 1999 01:34:47 GMT, jl…@gte.com wrote: :

:

Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s

:

helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I

:

know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been

:

totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago,

:

too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I

:

really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had

:

some very, very dark moments.  I feel very depressed for some

:

reason (as opposed to being anxious — which I still am, but the

:

depression seems more overwhelming these days).

:

:

My husband talked me into starting back on the Zoloft today (after I

:

*begged* him this morning not to go to work today (( ).

:

:

Just venting I guess — I know there’s nothing anyone can do.

:

:

Lisa

— —————————————————— some people say I got no patience. I got lots of patience. I can wait all day for someone else to Brew the Coffee….

Response:

In article <374a0b6…@news.camtech.net.au

, "Trevor Lampre"

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<tlam…@camtech.net.au

wrote: Zoloft is an antidepressant so in stopping taking it you have exposed yourself to a downhill slide. The Zoloft might not have been helping with the OCD but it probably was helping the depression. The SSRI’s are strange drugs. They are very selective in how they affect different people, what works for one may not work for another. I confounded my GP with my complaints about the side effects of Zoloft, Luvox and Serzone. I liked good old Dothiepin for depression but it’s no longer part of the in-crowd as it is a tricyclic not an SSRI. I’ve not seen tricyclics mentioned much in terms of OCD. Interactions with doctors are just as problematic. Having a sense of trust and rapport with your therapist is important. I had seen two counselors over the years before my current one. They were as thick as two short planks and I didn’t see them for long. You are quite right to stop seeing one you don’t get on with but please make an effort to find a new one. Don’t cut off your nose to spite your face. If the Zoloft wasn’t worsening your OCD but did help with the depression I’d say to stay on it until you get new medical advice. Go and see a GP (or whoever does this sort of thing where you are) and discuss a change of med. If you still had anxiety you might want to add an anxiolytic such as Xanax to the Zoloft mix or perhaps switch to Luvox but discuss it with a doctor first. Switching meds can be hard. You normally have to wait a week or two depending on your dosage levels to get the old drug out of your system before starting a new one and then it takes a couple of weeks for the new one to have an effect. Regards, Trevor <jl…@gte.com wrote in message news:374bfc28.2519205@news.gte.net… Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago, too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had some very, very dark moments.  I feel very depressed for some reason (as opposed to being anxious — which I still am, but the depression seems more overwhelming these days). My husband talked me into starting back on the Zoloft today (after I *begged* him this morning not to go to work today (( ). Just venting I guess — I know there’s nothing anyone can do. Lisa

Additionally, it is said that it takes 2-3 months on the SSRI’s to see OCD relief…I don’t know how long you’ve been on it, but it may pay to stay on if the side effects are not bad, as it is helping your depression now and could very well help your OCD later… — Charles Phipps cphi…@roadhog.com

Response:

Hi it doesn’t sound like a too good idea to me to AND quit the therapist AND the meds at the same time. I have no idea how long you’d been on the Zoloft but it takes long time for SSRI’s to be efficient on OCD symptoms, most people mention at least 10 weeks on the proper dosage… Also it might not be the proper SSRI, it took me three trials before actually finding something (Luvox) that seem to be working. I know how very difficult it all is. If you have OCD you should get in touch with the OCD Foundation (they have a Web site with all kind of infos on how to reach them etc…) and ask them for the adress of a trained CBT therapist near you. I don’t know what your symptms are but talk therapy doesn’t do much for OCD. I have been in talk therapy for over 2 years, even though it has given me some insight on some other problems, it didn’t help at all the OCD. Hang in there, it’s tough but you can get better, Cecile – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<jl…@gte.com

wrote in message news:374bfc28.2519205@news.gte.net… Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago, too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had some very, very dark moments.  I feel very depressed for some reason (as opposed to being anxious — which I still am, but the depression seems more overwhelming these days). My husband talked me into starting back on the Zoloft today (after I *begged* him this morning not to go to work today (( ). Just venting I guess — I know there’s nothing anyone can do. Lisa

Response:

Hi Lisa From my personnal experience I know that it takes about 10 weeks for the medication to start working and I know that it seems like forever. Hang in there.  Yes I think that it is very important to find a good therepist.  Make sure they deal with ocd.  Don’t give up because of one person I know there is someone who can help you.  It helped me to chat in support groups and talk to others dealing with the same problems.  You will feel better!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and when you do, you will get so much more joy out of life than ever before! Take Care

Response:

Zoloft is an antidepressant so in stopping taking it you have exposed yourself to a downhill slide. The Zoloft might not have been helping with the OCD but it probably was helping the depression. The SSRI’s are strange drugs. They are very selective in how they affect different people, what works for one may not work for another. I confounded my GP with my complaints about the side effects of Zoloft, Luvox and Serzone. I liked good old Dothiepin for depression but it’s no longer part of the in-crowd as it is a tricyclic not an SSRI. I’ve not seen tricyclics mentioned much in terms of OCD. Interactions with doctors are just as problematic. Having a sense of trust and rapport with your therapist is important. I had seen two counselors over the years before my current one. They were as thick as two short planks and I didn’t see them for long. You are quite right to stop seeing one you don’t get on with but please make an effort to find a new one. Don’t cut off your nose to spite your face. If the Zoloft wasn’t worsening your OCD but did help with the depression I’d say to stay on it until you get new medical advice. Go and see a GP (or whoever does this sort of thing where you are) and discuss a change of med. If you still had anxiety you might want to add an anxiolytic such as Xanax to the Zoloft mix or perhaps switch to Luvox but discuss it with a doctor first. Switching meds can be hard. You normally have to wait a week or two depending on your dosage levels to get the old drug out of your system before starting a new one and then it takes a couple of weeks for the new one to have an effect. Regards, Trevor – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<jl…@gte.com

wrote in message news:374bfc28.2519205@news.gte.net… Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago, too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had some very, very dark moments.  I feel very depressed for some reason (as opposed to being anxious — which I still am, but the depression seems more overwhelming these days). My husband talked me into starting back on the Zoloft today (after I *begged* him this morning not to go to work today (( ). Just venting I guess — I know there’s nothing anyone can do. Lisa

Response:

*HUGS* -kbeth – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -On Tue, 25 May 1999 01:34:47 GMT, jl…@gte.com wrote:

Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago, too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had some very, very dark moments.  I feel very depressed for some reason (as opposed to being anxious — which I still am, but the depression seems more overwhelming these days). My husband talked me into starting back on the Zoloft today (after I *begged* him this morning not to go to work today (( ). Just venting I guess — I know there’s nothing anyone can do. Lisa

Response:

Question:

Does anyone have experience with combinations of any of the following meds:  Wellbutrin, Zoloft, Effexor, and Ritalin? Thanks, groucho

Response:

Took them all, but I don’t think it was ever in combination with each other. Like most of the meds I have taken, they worked for a while then ZIPPO. It appears that the Paxil, Buspar, Neurontin Combo I am now on has gone ZIPPO on me. When you feel better without meds than you do on meds, "Somethin’ is screwie in St. Louie!!"          Ralph – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have experience with combinations of any of the following meds:  Wellbutrin, Zoloft, Effexor, and Ritalin? Thanks, groucho

Response:

What dose is the ritaalin for depression?

Response:

Question:

says… It hardly seems fair that those who guard our health do so at this kind of price. Without blaming all such woes on lifestyle, I do wish doctoring were a less heroic and more comfortable thing. Good luck — Julianne

In Australia, we don’t tend to glorify doctors — at least general practitioners.In many ways it’s just another job. This has its advantages and disadvantages. People don’t believe we are superhuman; they feel free to ask us questions if they don’t understand something. I’m sure if you scratch any American doctor, you’d find a patient of some type; and also a person — unless you’ve begun cloning your MDs (which, from reading some of the stories here, I would believe!) Ciao, Raymot ======= Brisbane, Australia [[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[

Response:

It hardly seems fair that those who guard our health do so at this kind of price. Without blaming all such woes on lifestyle, I do wish doctoring were a less heroic and more comfortable thing. Good luck — Julianne

Response:

Hi All, Ok, here’s the post about my headaches. I have always had tension headaches. I used to be rarely without them — just sometimes they were worse than others. I’ve tried all sorts of medications over the years — and being a physician myself, I can prescribe for myself what I think I need (except for narcotics, and controlled drugs). This year my headaches have dramatically reduced, I think due to several reasons. Firstly, I decided not to feel guilty about self-prescribing the drugs I needed. Secondly, I got a second opinion about not feeling guilty about self- prescribing the drugs I needed. The drugs I’m taking are Zoloft (sertraline) 100mg/day, Xanax (alprazolam) 1mg/day (a small dose, but it works), and Digesic (dextropropoxyphene + paracetamol) as necessary (usually ~ 3-4/day) Adequate and regular sleep is essential for me. I am using a mouth splint at night (to stop snoring and to stop teeth-grinding). This really helps lessen the headaches, and is as important as the drugs. After having a $300 splint fall apart, I made one myself out of a $7.95 sports mouthguard. The essential features are that it stops the bruxism, and acts as a mandibular advancement splint (insofar as I have an overbite, and with the splint I can’t close my teeth together fully, so my airway stays more open.) I also believe the texture of the splint takes some pressure off the clenching muscles — temporalis and masseters etc. It’s springy and pushes back. I’m really amazed at the difference a hunk of rubber between my teeth at nighttime can make to the severity of those waking headaches. In order of importance, I would say the following factors have contributed to the significant improvement in my tension headaches: 1) Zoloft;  2) Mouth splint at night;  3) Xanax;   4) Adequate Sleep; 5) Digesic – Analgesics. Note, this is only a personal story. It won’t work for everyone, and I’m not suggesting it in the capacity of a physician. But it’s worked for me and I can honestly say that I can go for most of the day without a headache sometimes! Ciao, Raymot ======= Brisbane, Australia [[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[[

Response:

Question:

        What are some of the side effects of the drug Paxil? One         person has mentioned headaches.

Response:

what are some of the side effects of the drug Paxil? one person has mentioned headaches. Paxil (paroxetine) may cause side effects similar to those of the other major serotonin reuptake inhibitors currently on the market, Prozac (fluoxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline), namely:  dryness of the eyes and mouth, mild constipation, restless sleep or insomnia, and decreased libido.  i have been taking paxil for depression for the past six months and have experienced all of these effects, but they have all abated as time passes, except that i still have problems with restless sleep, and bruxism or grinding of the teeth during sleep.  i’ve been experimenting with timing of the dosage to prevent this.  apparently Paxil gives some people a feeling of more energy, and some a feeling of tiredness.  i was advised that it has the least side effects of any of the serotonin reuptake inhibitors, especially in the area of stomach upset and/or decreased appetite.  i haven’t experienced either of these, nor have i had headaches. i don’t want to take it forever, but i’ve had good results with it–in combination with sessions with a reputable therapist–for depression/social phobia. megan

Response: