Question:

says… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). 20 years from the date it was filed with the patent office.  There are a few ways to extend them to a certain extent, if the patent office was really slow, or it took forever to get FDA approval. I thought so. Now, what if they "enhance" the design of the originally patented technology. Does the 20-year clock start over? I’m asking because it sounds like that’s what ALZA did for Concerta. They took their original design and added a coating of med on the outside so that it would release an initial dose of medication.

In that case I suspect that the patent is on the coating technology. — — –John Reply to jclarke at eye bee em dot net

Response:

The Concerta web page says that if you take 15 mg Methylphenidate 2x/day or 15 mg Methylphenidate 3x/day or 60 mg Methylphenidate-SR, then you should take  54 mg of Concerta every morning by taking a 36 mg and an 18 mg at the same time. Daily dosage above 54 mg is not recommended. The URL is http://www.concerta.net/info.html Katswan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, I am going to my Doctor tomorrow, and he has expressed interest in trying Concerta. I have a question on this, however. I am an adult, 31 years old. I have been on 20mg (non-SR) Ritalin 3 times a day (60 mg total per day) for the past 5 years. Considering this, what dosage of Concerta should I be on? The 60 mg per day worked fine for me, but I dont see how that dose (per day) can be obtained from the size tablets being offered right now for Concerta (only 18mg or 36mg). I am at a total loss as to why there is no good indicators of what an adult should be taking for Concerta, if (s)he is coming from a regular release Ritalin dosage of 60mg per day? Taking 2 x 36mg. Concerta might be considered to be too high of a dose. There is a new 54mg coming out (I am wondering if it is out yet… possibly). But would this be enough for me? Also, I can find no literature that talks about how much (in mg) is released on the outside-coating ‘immediate release’ of Concerta tabs, and then, how much is released in each remaining layer (2 more layers), and at what time are they released? I went to Concerta.net, but cannot find any data that answers these questions. Can anyone provide some answers to these questions? Thanks. Chris

Response:

I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? <Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old. (Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication.

When a new med is developed, that company that developed it has exclusive rights to market it, as with any patented invention. After, I think, 20 or 30 years or so, they lose the exclusivity and other products can copy their design/formula. They can also "lease" the right to use the patented formula/design during their exclusive rights period. ALZA’s web site says that their OROS delivery system has been used for 20 years, but that Concerta uses an enhanced OROS system, so the clock may have restarted ticking, it may be like a new patent. Most health/medical insurance policies push generics (list of covered meds). When my daughter was on Ritalin, I had to make certain the doctor put "Brand name medically necessary" on every prescription, or our previous insurance company would only pay for the generic, since it was available. To get our new insurance company to pay for Concerta, we had to jump through some hoops. The doctor had to write a letter (for which I had to provide him information since we’re new to the practice), detailing all the meds daughter has been on, why they weren’t effective or were problematic, and why we think Concerta will be different. Since daughter’s tried everything, they approved our request and are paying for Concerta. They did not approve it for son, however, as he hasn’t tried Ritalin-SR (much cheaper than Concerta and theoretically similar). I won’t put him on Ritalin-SR, however, because I think the dose is too high for him. When he was on Ritalin, he took 5mg 3x/day. He currently takes 5mg Adderall 2x/day. No way do these dosages compare to 20 mg R-SR, which would be expected to dump 20mg of meds into his system in 4 hours less than he got 15mg of meds (and twice as much meds as he’s taking now). He doesn’t need more med, he needs it spread over a longer day. So I paid for his first month’s Rx for Concerta (nearly $70). Now that we know it’s working well for him, the doctor will write another letter requesting approval. Katswan

Response:

<part of reply snipped They did not approve it for son, however, as he hasn’t tried Ritalin-SR (much cheaper than Concerta and theoretically similar). I won’t put him on Ritalin-SR, however, because I think the dose is too high for him. When he was on Ritalin, he took 5mg 3x/day. He currently takes 5mg Adderall 2x/day. No way do these dosages compare to 20 mg R-SR, which would be expected to dump 20mg of meds into his system in 4 hours less than he got 15mg of meds (and twice as much meds as he’s taking now). He doesn’t need more med, he needs it spread over a longer day. So I paid for his first month’s Rx for Concerta (nearly $70). Now that we know it’s working well for him, the doctor will write another letter requesting approval. Katswan

Thanks for the reply. It is something for me to think about.        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? <Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old. (Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication. When a new med is developed, that company that developed it has exclusive rights to market it, as with any patented invention. After, I think, 20 or 30 years or so, they lose the exclusivity and other products can copy their design/formula.

A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). Copyrights last longer than patents and can be renewed.  Copyrights don’t cover the same thing; they protect expressions of ideas, like books or pictures. Patents give companies (or people) the exclusive right to construct or sell or use a process or principle of operation. However, to get copyright protection for a period, you must disclose exactly how to do it, and anyone can get copies from the patent office after it has expired. Alternatively, companies can just keep things secret.  These are trade secrets, but if someone else comes up with the same idea, the company has nothing they can legally do about it. -Chris Eliot

Response:

says… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? <Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old. (Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication. When a new med is developed, that company that developed it has exclusive rights to market it, as with any patented invention. After, I think, 20 or 30 years or so, they lose the exclusivity and other products can copy their design/formula. A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). Copyrights last longer than patents and can be renewed.  Copyrights don’t cover the same thing; they protect expressions of ideas, like books or pictures. Patents give companies (or people) the exclusive right to construct or sell or use a process or principle of operation. However, to get copyright protection for a period, you must disclose exactly how to do it, and anyone can get copies from the patent office after it has expired.

Well, sorta.  The "game", I am told by folks who have cause to know such things, is to tell enough to get the patent but not enough that someone can reproduce the technology.  Georgia Tech has a course in which you are given a patent and required to design a working device based on that patent.  It very quickly becomes evident how much information is _not_ included in the patent.  Of course this assumes that the device described by the patent will actually work.  One engineer I knew collected whacky patents for stuff that couldn’t possibly work–had his office wallpapered with them. Alternatively, companies can just keep things secret.  These are trade secrets, but if someone else comes up with the same idea, the company has nothing they can legally do about it. -Chris Eliot

– — –John Reply to jclarke at eye bee em dot net

Response:

We switched daughter back to Adderall this morning largely based on what daughter was telling us. It just wasn’t working for her. Now we her taking 30 long however I wonder if she can take another 20 mg dose around 2PM? Is there an Adderall website?? Is anyone taking Adderall this way, three doses a day? Last time we talked to her doctor we found that she was splitting her afternoon dose by taking 10 mg at lunch plus 10 mg later in the afternoon which the the lower split dose. This was one of the reasons he suggested trying Concerta

Response:

A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly).

20 years from the date it was filed with the patent office.  There are a few ways to extend them to a certain extent, if the patent office was really slow, or it took forever to get FDA approval.

Response:

A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). 20 years from the date it was filed with the patent office.  There are a few ways to extend them to a certain extent, if the patent office was really slow, or it took forever to get FDA approval.

Really?? OK, I didn’t think it was so long.

Response:

A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). 20 years from the date it was filed with the patent office.  There are a few ways to extend them to a certain extent, if the patent office was really slow, or it took forever to get FDA approval.

I thought so. Now, what if they "enhance" the design of the originally patented technology. Does the 20-year clock start over? I’m asking because it sounds like that’s what ALZA did for Concerta. They took their original design and added a coating of med on the outside so that it would release an initial dose of medication. Katswan

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level As a medic, I would recommend talking to her Dr first. PDR’s should be available at most libraries. While my USP DI is a bit old (1996, they ain’t cheap), the usual pediatric dose for 6 years of age and older for Adderall, states that the dose does not usually exceed 40 mg daily. Concerta is not listed, as it is newer than my book. I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this.

That’s how our pediatrician explained it to us. — Light, Love, & Laughter, Kitten, Goddess of Mischief "Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this." – Anonymous "Just for today, do not worry;  Just for today, do not anger; Earn your living honestly; Honor your parents, teachers and elders; Show gratitude for every living thing."- Dr. Mikao Usui

Response:

As a medic, I would recommend talking to her Dr first. PDR’s should be available at most libraries.

Concerta does not appear in our Libraries 2000 PDR and of course although I have to talk to her psychiatrist before we increase (ie to get a script) I was wondering if increasing the dose was an option. I don’t think she gets the kick (maybe poor choice of words) that she got from the Adderall. The Concerta is probably much slower and more gradual delivery and change in the blood level.

Response:

I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this. That’s how our pediatrician explained it to us.

I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta?  Curious,            Norma        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

I got confused about the attributions here.  Sorry if I’m misquoting. I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this.

That’s how we’ve switched dosages here. Son went from 5mg Ritalin 3x/day to 5mg Adderall 2x/day (but really needing a 3rd dose too late to give it to him) to 18mg Concerta 1x/day. Daughter went from 20mg Ritalin-SR in the AM plus 10mg Ritalin regular in the PM (and still never being stable in the meds’ effects) to 10mg Adderall 2x/day (but really needing a third dose too late to give it to her) to 36mg Concerta 1x/day. That’s how our pediatrician explained it to us.

I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta?

Well, the med in Concerta is methylphenidate HCl (a form of Ritalin), so it’s already a generic. The delivery system in the body is what is unique and what makes it so expensive. It’s called OROS and was developed by ALZA. It’s been used to deliver other medications for about 20 years, although it’s been enhanced for Concerta to give an intial "shot" of medication. I’m sure ALZA with hold on to the rights/patents for as long as they can. Here’s ALZA’s Concerta web site URL: http://www.concerta.net/index.htm Katswan

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this. That’s how our pediatrician explained it to us. I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta?

No, it is brand new, less than one year old. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  Curious,            Norma        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? <Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old. (Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication.

The patents have to expire first, and that takes a number of years. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

Hello, I am going to my Doctor tomorrow, and he has expressed interest in trying Concerta. I have a question on this, however. I am an adult, 31 years old. I have been on 20mg (non-SR) Ritalin 3 times a day (60 mg total per day) for the past 5 years. Considering this, what dosage of Concerta should I be on? The 60 mg per day worked fine for me, but I dont see how that dose (per day) can be obtained from the size tablets being offered right now for Concerta (only 18mg or 36mg). I am at a total loss as to why there is no good indicators of what an adult should be taking for Concerta, if (s)he is coming from a regular release Ritalin dosage of 60mg per day? Taking 2 x 36mg. Concerta might be considered to be too high of a dose. There is a new 54mg coming out (I am wondering if it is out yet… possibly). But would this be enough for me? Also, I can find no literature that talks about how much (in mg) is released on the outside-coating ‘immediate release’ of Concerta tabs, and then, how much is released in each remaining layer (2 more layers), and at what time are they released? I went to Concerta.net, but cannot find any data that answers these questions. Can anyone provide some answers to these questions? Thanks. Chris

Response:

I am going to my Doctor tomorrow, and he has expressed interest in trying Concerta. I have a question on this, however. I am an adult, 31 years old. I have been on 20mg (non-CR) Ritalin 3 times a day (60 mg total per day) for the past 5 years. What dosage of Concerta should I be on? The 60 mg per day worked fine for me, but I dont see how that dose (per day) can be obtained from the size tablets being offered right now for Concerta (18 or 36mg).

From what our pediatrician told us about the conversion from Ritalin to Concerta, you would need 2 36mg caplets in the morning to receive the equivalent of your current 60mg/day of Ritalin.  (18mg Concerta = 15mg {3 5mg doses} Ritalin) I am at a total loss as to why there is no good indicators of what an adult should be taking for Concerta, if (s)he is coming from a regular release Ritalin dosage of 60mg per day? Taking 2 36mg. Concerta might be considered to be too high of a dose. There is a new 54mg coming out (maybe out now, possibly). But would this be enough?

With the conversion above, I don’t see how 2 36mg would be considered too high.  It’s an equivalent dosage to what you are currently taking. Also, I can find no literature that talks about how much (in mg) is released on the outside coating immediate release of Concerta tabs, and then, how much is released in each remaining layer (2 more layers), and at what time are they released? I went to Concerta.net, but cannot find any of this data. Can anyone provide some info on this?

I’ve a pdf on Concerta.  I’m not sure if it has the info you’re looking for, but if you’d like me to email it to you, let me know. — Light, Love, & Laughter, Kitten, Goddess of Mischief "Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this." – Anonymous "Just for today, do not worry;  Just for today, do not anger; Earn your living honestly; Honor your parents, teachers and elders; Show gratitude for every living thing."- Dr. Mikao Usui

Response:

I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta?

<Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old.

(Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication.        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

I am going to my Doctor tomorrow, and he has expressed interest in trying Concerta. I have a question on this, however. I am an adult, 31 years old. I have been on 20mg (non-CR) Ritalin 3 times a day (60 mg total per day) for the past 5 years. What dosage of Concerta should I be on? The 60 mg per day worked fine for me, but I dont see how that dose (per day) can be obtained from the size tablets being offered right now for Concerta (18 or 36mg). I am at a total loss as to why there is no good indicators of what an adult should be taking for Concerta, if (s)he is coming from a regular release Ritalin dosage of 60mg per day? Taking 2 36mg. Concerta might be considered to be too high of a dose. There is a new 54mg coming out (maybe out now, possibly). But would this be enough? Also, I can find no literature that talks about how much (in mg) is released on the outside coating immediate release of Concerta tabs, and then, how much is released in each remaining layer (2 more layers), and at what time are they released? I went to Concerta.net, but cannot find any of this data. Can anyone provide some info on this? Thanks. Chris

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? Well, the med in Concerta is methylphenidate HCl (a form of Ritalin), so it’s already a generic. The delivery system in the body is what is unique and what makes it so expensive. It’s called OROS and was developed by ALZA. It’s been used to deliver other medications for about 20 years, although it’s been enhanced for Concerta to give an intial "shot" of medication. I’m sure ALZA with hold on to the rights/patents for as long as they can. Here’s ALZA’s Concerta web site URL: http://www.concerta.net/index.htm Katswan

Thanks for the info.        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level

Response:

Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level

Have you talked to her doctor?   Nessa — Life’s a dance. You learn as you go. Sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow Don’t worry ’bout what you don’t know, life’s a dance you learn as you go!

Response:

Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level

As a medic, I would recommend talking to her Dr first. PDR’s should be available at most libraries. While my USP DI is a bit old (1996, they ain’t cheap), the usual pediatric dose for 6 years of age and older for Adderall, states that the dose does not usually exceed 40 mg daily. Concerta is not listed, as it is newer than my book. The dosage info for Adderal is backed by the PDR info at: http://www.healthsquare.com/drugmain.htm You should also be able to find the info on Concerta there. Chewy — Kitten’s Main Squeeze We live in a technological society that creates many illusions of reality…it’s the most irresponsible behaving entity that ever lived on this planet.  This civilization is not about responsibility, it’s about guilt, sin, blame and aggressive bad behavior.  That is the shadow world… The real world is about fulfilling our responsibility to life. — John Trudell

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level As a medic, I would recommend talking to her Dr first. PDR’s should be available at most libraries. While my USP DI is a bit old (1996, they ain’t cheap), the usual pediatric dose for 6 years of age and older for Adderall, states that the dose does not usually exceed 40 mg daily. Concerta is not listed, as it is newer than my book.

I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The dosage info for Adderal is backed by the PDR info at: http://www.healthsquare.com/drugmain.htm You should also be able to find the info on Concerta there. Chewy — Kitten’s Main Squeeze We live in a technological society that creates many illusions of reality…it’s the most irresponsible behaving entity that ever lived on this planet.  This civilization is not about responsibility, it’s about guilt, sin, blame and aggressive bad behavior.  That is the shadow world… The real world is about fulfilling our responsibility to life. — John Trudell

Response:

Question:

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

Question:

On 4/22/05 9:00 AM, in article 3csld4F6m22n…@individual.net, "Susan" <Su…@nothankyou.com

wrote: I think it’s helping, but if I get infected again, I’d like to know which abx I can use with the irrigator, instead of systemically?

Many doctors are switching to using the antibiotic via hydro pulse irrigation. You remove the thick mucus to get the abx in better contact with the bacteria too. If your doctor has any questions he can contact me directly.

Response:

On 4/22/05 6:06 AM, in article 3csb6cF6kvuh…@individual.net, "Susan" – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<Su…@nothankyou.com

wrote: x-no-archive: yes Murray Grossan wrote: We regularly combine Astelin with a Steroid spray. Are you using Pulsatile irrigation? Thanks for the info, Murray.  Yes, I’m irrigating at least daily, using some SinoFresh now and then in the evening, now that tree pollen is out. I’m about to finish the Augmentin XR, and I still have only a very small, almost pea sized area of soreness in the inner corner of my browbone (it extended almost the length of my eye when I began abx). I don’t want to have to medicate again, this is the third round this year. I just went back to my old allergist and am finally injecting potent desensitization doses of my serum again; the new allergist was so cautious (as convention dictates) that the shots had no effect at all. I’m hoping that the dramatic relief I get from these shots will knock down the allergy/infection/asthma cycle.  I feel a lot less dizzy and weak today, having skipped Advair last night. What drug would my doctor need to rx if we wanted to try irrigating with an abx instead of using it orally?  The same one? Thanks again, Susan

If you are having a sinus – asthma cycle, the cause may be failure of your nasal cilia to remove biofilm with its bacteria. Ask your doctor if using pulsatile irrigation would be of benefit for you.

Response:

On 4/21/05 7:21 AM, in article 3cpr7cF6nht7…@individual.net, "Susan" – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<Su…@nothankyou.com

wrote: x-no-archive: yes I have chronic sinusitis that is finally coming under control after a month of Augmentin XR and nasal irrigation daily.  I still have pn drip, though, and plenty of clear mucus. The reason I’ve become  very concerned is that this is now triggering asthma, something I’ve not suffered from in the past. I gave up steroid sprays years ago, thinking they might contribute to infections by immune suppression, but I have adverse reactions to Singulair, and maybe Advair, too (elevated bp). Does anyone here know if it’s safe and/or advisable to combine Astelin with occasional steroid nasal spray?  I’ve always gotten excellent results from the Astelin, so I’m not about to give it up. Susan

We regularly combine Astelin with a Steroid spray. Are you using Pulsatile irrigation?

Response:

"Susan" <Su…@nothankyou.com

wrote in message

news:3cpr7cF6nht7qU1@individual.net…

x-no-archive: yes

(snip)

Does anyone here know if it’s safe and/or advisable to combine Astelin with occasional steroid nasal spray?  I’ve always gotten excellent results from the Astelin, so I’m not about to give it up. Susan

I’m not sure what benefit occasional steroid spray use would be, since steroid sprays take at least 3 repeated days of use to have any significant effect at all, and to truly work well, you would need to use them at least 1 squirt per side every day. btw- I use Flonase every day and Astelin almost every day – with no apparent negative effects.   AW

Response:

Question:

writes – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice Hi Denice: I was diagnosed with asthma 2 years ago.  Last year was the first time I ever got a flu injection.  My GP and allergist insisted I get one.  Your immune system is already damaged and coming down with the flu could be fatal.

I don’t think my immune system is damaged – I don’t get any more of the general run of coughs & colds than anyone else in the office (possibly less in fact) – but if I *do* get them I will often be iller. Good Luck, Maria

– Surfer!

Response:

If you can’t get the flu from the shot, then how come I always get sick for two or three days after I get the shot? You CANNOT get the flu from the flu shot. Possible answers: 1A.  Coincidence.  You would have gotten sick anyway.

One of the funniest things that ever happened to me:  About 4 years ago, I was standing in a long line of folks to receive a flu shot.  And guess what–the nurse who was doing the shots was herself sneezing and coughing and blowing her nose from a bad cold!  The medical office didn’t realize that those of us who were trying to avoid the flu were probably not too interested in catching a bad cold either.  :-) Needless to say, I washed my hands and arms thoroughly afterward.  But I wonder what happened to the others who weren’t that fastidious.  :-) — Steven D. Litvintchouk                   Disclaimer:  As far as I am aware, the opinions expressed herein             are not those of my employer.

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Your dr. is correct. The most common side effect of the flu shot is soreness at the injection site (hardly a sign of the flu), although occasionally people feel flu-like joint soreness and fatigue. Get the shot – the flu can literally kill susceptible people, the shot just makes you a bit uncomfortable. – tg (an RN w/ asthma) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice

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The only thing to watch out for (at least with the UK version) is allergy to eggs.  They always ask me before putting the needle in.  Now that reminds me – it must be time to make that appointment. Real flu (lots of people call a bad cold flu) is a debilitating illness at best, and quite dangerous for the elderly, and those with chronic lung, heart or kidney problems or diabetes.  All these groups can get free flu jabs in the UK – apparently the government has about 10,000,000 shots lined up. My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice

– Surfer!

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I was wondering, what are oral steriods?  I mean, can someone give me an example?  I always get the different types of medications all mixed up.  There are so many of them!!!  I’m on Flovent, Singulair, and Provental, are any of those oral steroids?

Oral steroids come in pill form.  These medications are the ‘big hammer’ used to get the asthma back under control fast during times when your normal medications are not working.  (For example, if you get the flu your doctor is probably going to put you on oral steroids.) Flovent is an inhaled steroid.  This medication has a huge advantage over oral steroids in that it uses a dosage that is somewhere around 1/30th of that of the oral version.  The disadvantage is that this medication works slowly over time. Singulair is a leukotrine receptor antagonist.  This medication blocks the receptor sites for a chemical that is crucial to the inflammation process that drives asthma symptoms. Proventil is a beta-agonist.  This medication activates the beta receptor sites in the airways causing the muscles to relax and open the airways. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off."    General Colin Powell

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None of those are oral steroids. Predisone, prednisolone, pediapred, prelone, dexamethasone, decadron are all steroids.  Check out my web site at www.ibabydoc.com for a discussion on all asthma meds. Dr. Michael Bornstein, M.D. F.A.A.P. www.ibabydoc.com

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If you can’t get the flu from the shot, then how come I always get sick for two or three days after I get the shot?

Because your immune system thinks you have the flu.  The idea here is to trick the body so that it produces the appropriate antibodies. (BTW, if the immunization makes you feel bad – think of what the real disease will do to you.) "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off."    General Colin Powell

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My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice I have never had a flu shot, neither has my DH or either of our kids. We

looked at the number of viruses out there, the very small number covered by this shot, and the possible reactions to it and opted not to have them. During the last 12 years, I have had a mild flu once.  DH & the kids never have.

Response:

My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice

Hi Denice: I was diagnosed with asthma 2 years ago.  Last year was the first time I ever got a flu injection.  My GP and allergist insisted I get one.  Your immune system is already damaged and coming down with the flu could be fatal. Good Luck, Maria

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I have always heard it gives you a ‘touch’ of the virus so your body can build up resistance to it.

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If you can’t get the flu from the shot, then how come I always get sick for two or three days after I get the shot?

Maybe because the flu shot covers only a few small varieties of the flu, and there are many more out there.  You may be susesptible to a variety that its not expected many people will be suspectible to and wasn’t incluced in the shot.  Or maybe it was a cold, not the flu; there are hundreds of cold viruses. The flu shot is not a panacea for all illness.  Its simply a highly probable prevention for a small few.

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If you can’t get the flu from the shot, then how come I always get sick for two or three days after I get the shot?

You CANNOT get the flu from the flu shot. Possible answers: 1A.  Coincidence.  You would have gotten sick anyway. 1B.  Coincidence.  The flu shot alters your immune response and so you get sick with a critter that perhaps you wouldn’t have gotten as sick with. 2.  You caught Something Evil from the sick people visting your doctor’s office when you got the flu shot. 3.  Your immune system responds to the vaccine with: "wow! dead critters!  better wage biochemical warfare *just* to be sure!!"; kind of like how it goes "wow! pollen!  time to wage biochemical-thermonuclear war to protect this body from the Evil Invader!!"…

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If you can’t get the flu from the shot, then how come I always get sick for two or three days after I get the shot? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would definitely get the flu shot. You cannot catch the flu from it and it will prevent some pretty serious illness in an asthmatic. Dr. Michael Bornstein, M.D. F.A.A.P. www.ibabydoc.com

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My daughter, who has asthma, got the flu last January, type A and B and was hospitalized for seven days.  It was pretty severe and she was on oxygen for five of those days.  Although she was young, 13 months, the consequences of asthmatics with the flu at any age can’t be a good combination.

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I would definitely get the flu shot. You cannot catch the flu from it and it will prevent some pretty serious illness in an asthmatic. Dr. Michael Bornstein, M.D. F.A.A.P. www.ibabydoc.com

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I say do it. I have gotten them for over 10 years and i am thankful. Flu’s with asthma don’t go over well..

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<~ I’m on Flovent, Singulair, and Provental, are any of those oral steroids? ~ I think Singulair is.

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<~ I’m on Flovent, Singulair, and Provental, are any of those oral steroids? ~ I think Singulair is.

None of these are.  Flovent is an inhaled steroid.   Examples of oral steroids would be : prednisone, medrol or decadron

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My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks!

I get the flu shot the moment it is available.  Last year I and few other people who got the shot were the only people at work who were not out sick for several days.   "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off."    General Colin Powell

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I was wondering, what are oral steriods?  I mean, can someone give me an example?  I always get the different types of medications all mixed up.  There are so many of them!!!  I’m on Flovent, Singulair, and Provental, are any of those oral steroids? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My daughter, who has asthma, got the flu last January, type A and B and was hospitalized for seven days.  It was pretty severe and she was on oxygen for five of those days.  Although she was young, 13 months, the consequences of asthmatics with the flu at any age can’t be a good combination. Well, I’m in my forties, but even at my age, asthma and flu just don’t mix!  Therefore I get the flu shot every year. You *CANNOT* contract flu from a flu shot.  The only problem is if you’re on oral steroids.  These drugs can depress the immune response to the flu vaccine, so it won’t give you the immunity. — Steven D. Litvintchouk                   Disclaimer:  As far as I am aware, the opinions expressed herein             are not those of my employer.

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I have had a flu shot every year since about 1970, and I have ONLY had any reaction whatever once. I had a mild feeling of malaise for about four hours the next afternoon. I did have the flu once about 12-15 years ago — a different virus from the vaccine — and was sick for weeks. I do everything possible to avoid risking a recurrence of that experience. Emily – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice

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My daughter, who has asthma, got the flu last January, type A and B and was hospitalized for seven days.  It was pretty severe and she was on oxygen for five of those days.  Although she was young, 13 months, the consequences of asthmatics with the flu at any age can’t be a good combination.

Well, I’m in my forties, but even at my age, asthma and flu just don’t mix!  Therefore I get the flu shot every year. You *CANNOT* contract flu from a flu shot.  The only problem is if you’re on oral steroids.  These drugs can depress the immune response to the flu vaccine, so it won’t give you the immunity. — Steven D. Litvintchouk                   Disclaimer:  As far as I am aware, the opinions expressed herein             are not those of my employer.

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My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice

Asthmatics are in the high risk group for whom flu shots are especially recommended. See: http://www.kaiserpermanente.org/locations/midatlantic/newsroom/vaccin… Kaiser Permanente launches annual flu vaccination campaign "The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Kaiser  Permanente particularly recommend flu vaccinations for those  who are at special risk for adverse flu reactions. As part of  its campaign, Kaiser Permanente has sent flu shot reminders  to more than 115,000 local members in high-risk  categories. Those considered at "high-risk" for flu  complications include those who:  Are 65 or older;  Have a chronic illness such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease,  or have a family member with a chronic illness;  Have a weakened immune system, such as from HIV or cancer;  Interact with a lot of people in school, work, or leisure settings; and  Are pregnant and will be in the second or third trimester during  the flu season, or are planning to become pregnant during the  flu season. For additional information, members and others should visit  the Kaiser Permanente web site at            www.kaiserpermanente.org  " Ellis

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My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice

Response:

My Pulmonologist has suggested getting the flu shot this year and would welcome any advice for or against.  I’m still trying to get stablized with my medication and sure don’t want any complications or even a mild case of the flu right now.  The doctor assured me that they inject a dead vaccine and not the live one given years ago….. but am still very leery since vacation is pretty close for me.  Would welcome any advice?  Thanks! Denice

First flu shots were in 1942 I believe.  I got it in the army.  Had a two-three day mild fever and aching arm from the shot.  Have had many since including during periods of fairly severe asthma.  Never more than an mildly aching arm for a day.  Most  times not even that.  My experience is that they are a pretty trivial experience any more. A respiratory infection on top of asthma could get pretty nasty.  Think you should listen to your doctor.

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If any of you can and want to get the flu shot, get it now!  I was putting it off, I normally get it around the end of October.  However, I ended up with the flu the last couple days.  Terrible headache (I thought my head was going to explode) and a high fever and nausea.  I was sick for a couple days and am still sick.  GET IT NOW!!!  You don’t want this, trust me! Darcy

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i have found that my immune system has been badly affected  due to colitus and then crohns.  a flu shot is no longer something that i can take. it affects me differently than normal people. i get sick almost immediately and it takes me longer to get over it than most people. on a lighter side ,i try to stay away from small children and sneezing coughing adults. hehe mary? merry? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone get this?  Last time I had one, was at work and started to get a reaction and the nurse about scared the crap out of me.  I know the vaccine contains eggs, which I was allergic to when growing up, but grew out of it. With all these new bugs, was thinking about trying it again, but going to my doc for it instead.  Has anyone else experienced problems with it? Thanks. Julie

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a flu shot is no longer something that i can take. it affects me differently than normal people. i get sick almost immediately and it takes me longer to get over it than most people.

I thought I was the only one!  My doc told me that the shot would make me sicker than it was worth!  I used to get them every year, but no more!   Margie

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I got my Fly shot, I am afraid as hell that if I get the flu, it will kill me. I get i every year and have never regretted getting it.

Have you seen "The Fly"?  If so, you know what you’re in for!  :=} Kathi

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They still use eggs to incubate the vaccine. We have been told by the Health Dept. that we have to make sure we ask if a person is allergic to eggs before we can give them the injection. From what I have been given to understand they are incubating it in other tissue now as well but it is going to cost more.   Cathy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – (Darcy) writes: Don’t know if they still use the egg product in it though, I know something was changed with the shot, you need to ask! No, they don’t use egg anymore. Kathi

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Hi, I have a shot each winter but my doctor makes sure he weans me down to a lower dose of Pred. before I have the shot and then starts building them up again about a week later.  I feel a bit off color for a few days but listening to "healthy people"  they suffer too.  I think it is worth the effort.  The shot does not have the full effect I had a mild flu this winter (I was off work for a week, flu for 4 days and 1 day resting and having B12 shot and iron supplements at Docs.) some people in the office were away for 3 weeks!!! Keep well, Luv Michelle ( in the Southern Hemi.) — — Michelle Wilhelm 21A Dinton Street, Christchurch 8004, New Zealand Phone: +64 3 342 7877 —-

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Julie, I have been on Prednisone for over 2 years, currently on 15mg, started on Imuran 50mg 2 months ago, and now on 100mg.  I consulted with both my GI and PCP about getting a flu shot being on the immunosuppressants, and both recommended that I get one, even after hearing that I almost always get the flu after getting the shot (got them for 7 years in the military). After talking with both doctors and thinking about it, I would rather be sick for a week now than several times through the winter. My cousin is allergic to eggs and also has Crohn’s but he can’t take the flu shot as he reacts to it and one time it was rather serious.  So I would definitely check with your doctor and maybe an allergist to be tested to see if you are allergic to eggs.  As a child I had lots of allergies, and I still have some, but outgrew quite a few of them. Hope this helps. Ken — CD Class of 97 http://www.augustweb.com/~kjakin/ Does anyone get this?  Last time I had one, was at work and started to get a reaction and the nurse about scared the crap out of me.  I know the vaccine contains eggs, which I was allergic to when growing up, but grew out of it. With all these new bugs, was thinking about trying it again, but going to my doc for it instead.  Has anyone else experienced problems with it? Thanks. Julie

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(Darcy) writes: Don’t know if they still use the egg product in it though, I know something was changed with the shot, you need to ask!

No, they don’t use egg anymore. Kathi

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Gooniebird ???? I have always had problems but I got one last week in the hospital and it went okay.  They are different now anyway.  My Doctor insists that any of his high risk patients get one especially this year since it is suppose to be really bad.  Do it Goonie. jstew — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.

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Julie,     I have Crohn’s and allergic to eggs. I’ve been on Pred since last week of August, currently I’m on 30mg…..My primary dr, doesn’t reccommend that I have the flu shot Tania

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I’ve had the flu shot two years in a row (recommended by my GI) and have my appt for this years.  Have been on pred each time, and was never told not to have it because of that.  It has sure saved me from that nasty flu so far… Tracy

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Julie – I have gotten the flu shot for the last 5 years and also had the pneumonia shot last year at the recomendation of my GI doctor.  It has helped me to not get sick with the flu at all.  The first year I had a reaction to it, just minor flu (side effect) other than that, nothing.  I have had CD for 8 years now!  I will also be getting it this year, it is recommended for anyone with a chronic disease/autoimmune system problems.  Don’t know if they still use the egg product in it though, I know something was changed with the shot, you need to ask! Have a great day and keep smiling! Darcy

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Julie, I have been on Prednisone for over 2 years, currently on 15mg, started on Imuran 50mg 2 months ago, and now on 100mg.  I consulted with both my GI and PCP about getting a flu shot being on the immunosuppressants, and both recommended that I get one, even after hearing that I almost always get the flu after getting the shot (got them for 7 years in the military). After talking with both doctors and thinking about it, I would rather be sick for a week now than several times through the winter. My cousin is allergic to eggs and also has Crohn’s but he can’t take the flu shot as he reacts to it and one time it was rather serious.  So I would definitely check with your doctor and maybe an allergist to be tested to see if you are allergic to eggs.  As a child I had lots of allergies, and I still have some, but outgrew quite a few of them. Hope this helps. Ken — CD Class of 97 http://www.augustweb.com/~kjakin/

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone get this?  Last time I had one, was at work and started to get a reaction and the nurse about scared the crap out of me.  I know the vaccine contains eggs, which I was allergic to when growing up, but grew out of it. With all these new bugs, was thinking about trying it again, but going to my doc for it instead.  Has anyone else experienced problems with it? Thanks. Julie

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Julie, In addition to my last post, One of the doctors I work with told us yesterday afternoon that they now are incubating the vaccine in tissue as well as eggs. He thought the vaccine is probably more expensive. This vaccine is for those who are allergic to eggs. Cathy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone get this?  Last time I had one, was at work and started to get a reaction and the nurse about scared the crap out of me.  I know the vaccine contains eggs, which I was allergic to when growing up, but grew out of it. With all these new bugs, was thinking about trying it again, but going to my doc for it instead.  Has anyone else experienced problems with it? Thanks. Julie

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Does anyone get this?  Last time I had one, was at work and started to get a reaction and the nurse about scared the crap out of me.  I know the vaccine contains eggs, which I was allergic to when growing up, but grew out of it. With all these new bugs, was thinking about trying it again, but going to my doc for it instead.  Has anyone else experienced problems with it? Thanks. Julie

Julie,     I got mine about 2 weeks ago, and I had a huge welt on my arm from the shot for several days and it hurt like crazy, but it was worth it – the flu I had last winter was brutal!  But I’ve never been allergic to eggs … Sioux — * Remove the word "froggies" from our "reply-to" address (reply to * * http://www3.sympatico.ca/lilypad **

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Does anyone get this?  Last time I had one, was at work and started to get a reaction and the nurse about scared the crap out of me.  I know the vaccine contains eggs, which I was allergic to when growing up, but grew out of it. With all these new bugs, was thinking about trying it again, but going to my doc for it instead.  Has anyone else experienced problems with it? Thanks. Julie

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If you have been on Prednisone in the past year you should inform the nurse, according to the information I have from my pharmacist.  In fact, if you are on any drugs for IBD or otherwise, I’d disclose that information. Related: when I was in the hospital, they mentioned something about TB vacination, but I do not recall the details.  I think the statement was in reference to pred and reduction in immune system response.

: Does anyone get this?  Last time I had one, was at work and started to : get a reaction and the nurse about scared the crap out of me.  I know : the vaccine contains eggs, which I was allergic to when growing up, but : grew out of it. With all these new bugs, was thinking about trying it : again, but going to my doc for it instead.  Has anyone else experienced : problems with it? : Thanks.

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Julie, I was allergic to eggs as a child and thought I outgrew it. My doctor gave me a skin test with the vaccine and I developed a huge hive at the sight of the injection. He told me not to get the vaccine. This was a number of years ago so I had never tried again. When I started working at a clinic there was a doctor who said that if a person is allergic to eggs they can take 1/10 of a cc intradermally and still get up to 80% immunity. I have been doing this for the past 4 years and it has worked out quite well. I still get a giant hive on my arm but feel it is a small price to pay. You could ask your doctor about this. Cathy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone get this?  Last time I had one, was at work and started to get a reaction and the nurse about scared the crap out of me.  I know the vaccine contains eggs, which I was allergic to when growing up, but grew out of it. With all these new bugs, was thinking about trying it again, but going to my doc for it instead.  Has anyone else experienced problems with it? Thanks. Julie

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My drs always strongly recommended the flu shots for me no matter what I was on. Linda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you are, or have been recently, on any Prednisone or immunosuppressant drugs, you should definately check with your doctor first before receiving *ANY* immunizations.  You could get really sick and maybe even die. Thanks, Mike That is scarey.  I’m supposed to get my flu shot tomorrow, and now I’m concerned.  I asked the Dr at CCFA.COM and he said it’d be ok but I didn’t tell him I was on prednisone and 6mp.  I also take asacol. Now I don’t know what to do. Elise

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Linda- I believe you are supposed to go to the doc within 24 to 48 hours of the onset.  I suppose the sooner you feel it coming on and can start the meds… the sooner it will get you feeling better.  Hope this helps. Be well- Tracy CD class of ‘98 my homepage: http://home.talkcity.com/ParadiseDr/goodboie/index.html  : )  smile – it makes people wonder what you’re up to!

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Elise- I was on pred when I got my flu shot.  Two years ago, I was on Asacol, Imuran (similar to 6mp) and Pred.  I haven’t had any adverse reactions.  But if you are unsure, call your doc. Be well- Tracy CD class of ‘98 my homepage: http://home.talkcity.com/ParadiseDr/goodboie/index.html  : )  smile – it makes people wonder what you’re up to!

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It all depends on whether the vaccine contains live or dead virus. I think the flu vaccine is dead strains so it’s safe, but by all means ask your dr. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you are, or have been recently, on any Prednisone or immunosuppressant drugs, you should definately check with your doctor first before receiving *ANY* immunizations.  You could get really sick and maybe even die. Thanks, Mike That is scarey.  I’m supposed to get my flu shot tomorrow, and now I’m concerned.  I asked the Dr at CCFA.COM and he said it’d be ok but I didn’t tell him I was on prednisone and 6mp.  I also take asacol. Now I don’t know what to do. Elise

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I thought we had overactive immune systems that is why we take stuff like 6mp to supress our immune systems? I had the flu shot last week no problems. But you are right each person should research it on their own. Rachael – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Not a chance!!  I’ll never take a flu shot again. Last week in the Vancouver Paper headlines were 20 deaths linked to the flu shot. Us IBD’ers already have a weakened immune system I’m not about to throw a flu shot at it also.I haven’t taken a flu shot since I started researching nutrition. Your best bet is to keep on researching it yourself and decide from there.. whether you want to have them or not..Weigh all the pros and cons. Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad. Thank you. Pam

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If you are, or have been recently, on any Prednisone or immunosuppressant drugs, you should definately check with your doctor first before receiving *ANY* immunizations.  You could get really sick and maybe even die. Thanks, Mike

That is scarey.  I’m supposed to get my flu shot tomorrow, and now I’m concerned.  I asked the Dr at CCFA.COM and he said it’d be ok but I didn’t tell him I was on prednisone and 6mp.  I also take asacol. Now I don’t know what to do. Elise

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Elise, I am on 6MP and received the flu shot.  My GI said I’d be fine to get it and I insisted on talking w/ my allergist on how effective it would be. What convinced me was when he said if it was him he’d get the shot. Talk it over with your GI or regular doctor if you have any doubts.  mgbio CD Class of ‘99 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you are, or have been recently, on any Prednisone or immunosuppressant drugs, you should definately check with your doctor first before receiving *ANY* immunizations.  You could get really sick and maybe even die. Thanks, Mike That is scarey.  I’m supposed to get my flu shot tomorrow, and now I’m concerned.  I asked the Dr at CCFA.COM and he said it’d be ok but I didn’t tell him I was on prednisone and 6mp.  I also take asacol. Now I don’t know what to do. Elise

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Hi Tracy, How soon is soon enough?  It was 3 days before I could get to my doctor and I was crawling from the bed to the bathroom. I don’t think I’ve ever been so sick in my whole life!  Would those three days have been too late?  I’ll definitely remember the inhaler if I become ill with the flu again.  Thanks for the info. Linda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Just one more thing to add… if anyone does get the flu, make sure you get to the doc early… there is a drug available (called Relenza, I believe).  My husband got the flu last year, and was able to use this inhaler.  It cut down his time being sick from the average of 7-10 days to 3-4.  But you have to catch it early, or the docs won’t give it to you.  Just a suggestion in case anyone gets hit by it this year. Be well- Tracy CD class of ‘98 my homepage: http://home.talkcity.com/ParadiseDr/goodboie/index.html : )  smile – it makes people wonder what you’re up to!

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i had a flu shot about 6 weeks ago, no problem. pia

Response:

P14, If you are, or have been recently, on any Prednisone or immunosuppressant drugs, you should definately check with your doctor first before receiving *ANY* immunizations.  You could get really sick and maybe even die. Thanks, Mike — To reply via email remove the (SPAM_BLOCKER) from my email address: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad. Thank you. Pam

Response:

Not this year.  Last year I got sick from the flu shot (granted, I was run-down when I got the shot).  I suffered a "mini" flu for seven days (fever, weak). And then when my husband and son got the flu, I got it again!!  This year I got treated homeopathically for the flu (for the first time).  We’ll see how it goes.  Either way, it will be a long time until I get the flu shot again. Diana  CD ‘81

Response:

Pam, I have gotten them every year for a long time except for this year. I got the flu last year in spite of the shot, so this year I am going to wing it and see what happens. I have never had an adverse effect on my IBD from the shot, to answer your question. Mark CD c/o 88

Response:

I got the flu shot in October.  I just can’t risk having it knock me down and out…. Be well- Tracy CD class of ‘98 my homepage: http://home.talkcity.com/ParadiseDr/goodboie/index.html  : )  smile – it makes people wonder what you’re up to!

Response:

Just one more thing to add… if anyone does get the flu, make sure you get to the doc early… there is a drug available (called Relenza, I believe).  My husband got the flu last year, and was able to use this inhaler.  It cut down his time being sick from the average of 7-10 days to 3-4.  But you have to catch it early, or the docs won’t give it to you.  Just a suggestion in case anyone gets hit by it this year. Be well- Tracy CD class of ‘98 my homepage: http://home.talkcity.com/ParadiseDr/goodboie/index.html  : )  smile – it makes people wonder what you’re up to!

Response:

Hi Pam, I’ve been getting a flu shot for years.  I don’t think I’d go without as I came down with it a few yrs back when another strain of flu came out they weren’t expecting.  I don’t think I’ve ever, ever felt so bad in my life!!!  I’d have abdominal surgery before having the flu again.  That case, unfortunately, ended in pneumonia.  Even colds, for me, end up with bronchitis.  I finally was able to get my shot last week at Kroger no less!  My doctor’s office is still waiting for their shipment of vaccines and I was afraid to wait any longer. Linda p.s.  I also had the one time only pneumonia shot a few years ago and would advise others that have trouble with upper respiratory problems to have it too.

Response:

What?! Do you have a link to this article? I haven’t heard anything about any problems expect the shortage. Rebecca

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Not a chance!!  I’ll never take a flu shot again. Last week in the Vancouver Paper headlines were 20 deaths linked to the flu shot. Us IBD’ers already have a weakened immune system I’m not about to throw a flu shot at it also.I haven’t taken a flu shot since I started researching nutrition. Your best bet is to keep on researching it yourself and decide from there.. whether you want to have them or not..Weigh all the pros and cons. Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad. Thank you. Pam

Response:

Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad. Thank you. Pam

Hi Pam I got the flu shot 3 weeks ago. My main reason was that i take imuran which supresses the imunesystem, and therefore it takes longer to recover. An ordinary cold takes me 2-3 weeks to recover from. Take care Lars cd class of 98

Response:

Yes, I had the flu shot in oktober, like the last years. It doesn’t give me trouble. But I was the only one at work who has not been sick this year! — Martin The Netherlands http://www.dahlhaus.demon.nl

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad. Thank you. Pam

Response:

Not a chance!!  I’ll never take a flu shot again. Last week in the Vancouver Paper headlines were 20 deaths linked to the flu shot. Us IBD’ers already have a weakened immune system I’m not about to throw a flu shot at it also.I haven’t taken a flu shot since I started researching nutrition. Your best bet is to keep on researching it yourself and decide from there.. whether you want to have them or not..Weigh all the pros and cons.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad. Thank you. Pam

Response:

Pam, I got the shot, on the advice of my allergist.  I ran a fever for several days afterwards but my GI and I are not sure if it was due to the shot or the abscess I developed from my fistula (neither of which are related).  mgbio – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad.  Thank you. Pam

Response:

Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad.  Thank you. Pam

Response:

I’ve gotten the flu shot every year since I was dxed (in 97 or so). I’ve had no problem with it. My GI believes very strongly in IBD patients getting the shot. I got mine (when there weren’t *any* to be had) at his office. Rebecca

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there, Have any of you been able to get the flu shot?  I have CD and was wondering if it is an option.    I did catch the flu last year and it was pretty bad. Thank you. Pam

Response:

Question:

I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no." I don’t care if your name IS Erle Stanley, get your rake out of my petunias!

     I get similar symptoms when I have a sinus infection Patricia

Response:

Drugs such as serevent and maxair (beta agonists) can cause muscle twitching.  I have had several patients that had to stop the use of serevent due to severe tremors.  Do not stop your medication with out talking to your physician.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no." I don’t care if your name IS Erle Stanley, get your rake out of my petunias!     I get similar symptoms when I have a sinus infection Patricia

I just started getting eyelid twitches and am on the same meds. and here my husband thought I was winking at him!!!! Seriously, does anyone else have the same problems??? Peace, Tish are the thoughts,you have hidden in your heart…….

Response:

I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no."

Take magnesium supplements for the twitches. Say 400 mg. Take before bedtime and it also will help you sleep sounder (helps the natural melatonin work). For the headaches try a gluten-free or corn-free diet. Don.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no." Any bronchodilator can cause twitching of any nerves, that have a tendancy to twitch. I have a familiar tremor in my hands. When I take alot of ventolin (and in the old days theophyline), my tremors would start up. These were the times one or both of my eyelids would twitch like crazy. —

Have you tried taking minerals, especially potassium?  I’ve found them to be helpful.

Response:

I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no." I don’t care if your name IS Erle Stanley, get your rake out of my petunias!

Response:

I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The pharmacist and physician both say "no."

Any bronchodilator can cause twitching of any nerves, that have a tendancy to twitch. I have a familiar tremor in my hands. When I take alot of ventolin (and in the old days theophyline), my tremors would start up. These were the times one or both of my eyelids would twitch like crazy. —

Response:

: I am using Azmacort and Serevent regularly and Maxair occasionally.  I : have recently developed twitches in my eyelids that are quite : annoying.  I have also been having headaches.   Does anyone know : whether these are side effects of any of these prescriptions?  The : pharmacist and physician both say "no." I don’t take the precise same medications you do (I’m on Pulmicort and Bricanyl), but although the corticorsteroid (Pulmicort) doesn’t have any recognizable side-effects other than those caused by the turbuhaler, the Bricanyl bronchodilator causes a noticeable hand tremblor and a few twitches that sound similar to yours.  Especially for the first hour or two after I have to hit the bronchodilator. : I don’t care if your name IS Erle Stanley, : get your rake out of my petunias! — Murray Stone, Barrister & Solicitor phone:  (403) 486-5146  fax:  (403) 483-7791 snailmail:  616-21, 10405 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB, T5J 3S2 Canada

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -question wrote:

I am a 21 year old male suffering from Social Phobia.  I’ve tried drugs in the past, mostly SSRI’s, with no real success.  Some of the drugs I’ve tried I went off immediatly due to sexual side effects, mostly inability to feel pleasure while masturbating. The most recent drug, Zoloft, I went off due to the sexual side effect after 6-8 weeks.  The sexual side effect had occured almost immediatly but I stayed on it for a little while.  After the drug was out of my system I still felt like I wasn’t getting pleasure like I used to.  I also see that I am less interested in masturbating that I used to be. (No sexual partners involved, due to social phobia and all) Can these drugs have permanent effects on a person’s sexuality when you are off them?  The psychiatrist I used to see recommended that I go on the drugs even with the side effect to deal with my social problem.  A this point, I might have to consider it. Sidenote: The drugs I’ve had sexual side effects with are Effexor and Zoloft.

(Sadly), the sexual side effects with Effexor wear off pretty quickly (personally, I’m hoping for an anti depressant that causes me to lose all interested in sex, now that would be something). Without benzos in addition to it, sex drive will go back to normal in say 4 to 6 weeks whereas time to orgasm stays higher but it’s definitely possible after the first few weeks to get there.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -questionfor2…@yahoo.com (question) wrote in message <news:7fcdbfb4.0310192029.2f9937db@posting.google.com

… I am a 21 year old male suffering from Social Phobia.  I’ve tried drugs in the past, mostly SSRI’s, with no real success.  Some of the drugs I’ve tried I went off immediatly due to sexual side effects, mostly inability to feel pleasure while masturbating. The most recent drug, Zoloft, I went off due to the sexual side effect after 6-8 weeks.  The sexual side effect had occured almost immediatly but I stayed on it for a little while.  After the drug was out of my system I still felt like I wasn’t getting pleasure like I used to.  I also see that I am less interested in masturbating that I used to be. (No sexual partners involved, due to social phobia and all) Can these drugs have permanent effects on a person’s sexuality when you are off them?  The psychiatrist I used to see recommended that I go on the drugs even with the side effect to deal with my social problem.  A this point, I might have to consider it. Sidenote: The drugs I’ve had sexual side effects with are Effexor and Zoloft. Any info would be appreciated.

i think it’s unlikely your side effects are permanent, because i experienced them continuously while taking paxil–we’re talking about a period of years–but as soon as i switched to lexapro the side effects were vastly reduced. besides lexapro, the other ssri to consider, as crackwalker pointed out, is luvox. when i decided to switch from paxil at the insistence of my new girlfriend, i told my MD i want to switch to luvox, but he said, oh no, take lexapro, so i did and the results have been excellent, although your mileage may vary. btw, if you’re curious about lexapro vis-a-vis luvox, luvox has been around much longer than lexapro, so presumably it’s not as effective as ssri’s go. lexapro, according to what i read, which might be pharm. co. propaganda, is a modified form of celexa. celexa basically contained two active components, only one of which is the ssri, so they deleted the other component that presumably caused lots of side effects to produce lexapro. good luck.

Response:

I am a 21 year old male suffering from Social Phobia.  I’ve tried drugs in the past, mostly SSRI’s, with no real success.  Some of the drugs I’ve tried I went off immediatly due to sexual side effects, mostly inability to feel pleasure while masturbating. The most recent drug, Zoloft, I went off due to the sexual side effect after 6-8 weeks.  The sexual side effect had occured almost immediatly but I stayed on it for a little while.  After the drug was out of my system I still felt like I wasn’t getting pleasure like I used to.  I also see that I am less interested in masturbating that I used to be. (No sexual partners involved, due to social phobia and all) Can these drugs have permanent effects on a person’s sexuality when you are off them?  The psychiatrist I used to see recommended that I go on the drugs even with the side effect to deal with my social problem.  A this point, I might have to consider it. Sidenote: The drugs I’ve had sexual side effects with are Effexor and Zoloft. Any info would be appreciated.

Response:

Hi I would try a.. Luvox/Fluvoxamine Its the only med in the ssri category  I can’t find anything on sexual dysfunction Crackwalker’ "question" <questionfor2…@yahoo.com

wrote in message

news:7fcdbfb4.0310192029.2f9937db@posting.google.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Any info would be appreciated.

Response:

Question:

snip More sleep will help. I thank you so much for caring, and wish you a beautiful day.

Thank you ) You certainly sound more cheerful now – I’m glad you found a doctor you can get along with.  Good luck for tomorrow; I hope you do make it out to the shops. — —  Whiskers

Response:

Sorry. New to this group. Haven’t read the FAQ yet ( Too desperately scared and exhausted. Hello and welcome to ASD ) I’m a Brit, but there are several Americans here too – I hope you feel at home.

 { Courtseys and thanks you most humbly ) } I haven’t read the full FAQ yet either – too big!  (I’ve only been here a year and a bit)  There is a much shorter version here, and other good stuff too <http://www.meowkitty.net/asd/

  THANK YOU! (Didn’t mean to scream ) How did you get on with the doctor this time?

    Oooh, thanks for asking! Had my 1st night’s sleep (6-7 hours!!!) in several days, no nightmares until towards the AM, and less scarey!     Nice, *older* doc; boss of doc who caused the pain. Immediately prescribed Elavil, the only anti-depressant that helps me function. My husband helped me describe symptoms & history, as I was still in major panic attack mode. ) He was an angel, as was the Dr., as are you )     Was given something to help me sleep,too. Feeling 30% better, at least. Can’t get rid of the feeling depression won’t relax as much as it can until I get home again (US) …..but working on attitude restructure. Praying to be able to go out & raid charity shops for strange clothes tomorrow ) Don’t know if *out* is possible yet; maybe with another night’s sleep. {prays to Someone} More sleep will help. I thank you so much for caring, and wish you a beautiful day. SC

Response:

Sorry. New to this group. Haven’t read the FAQ yet ( Too desperately scared and exhausted.

Hello and welcome to ASD ) I’m a Brit, but there are several Americans here too – I hope you feel at home. I haven’t read the full FAQ yet either – too big!  (I’ve only been here a year and a bit)  There is a much shorter version here, and other good stuff too <http://www.meowkitty.net/asd/ How did you get on with the doctor this time? — —  Whiskers

Response:

I’m sorry about your plight. It must be very difficult to adjust to living in a new country when you start out depressed.

   Depression was under control when I arrived here, because of Elavil and and antihistamine combo thaT worked for me. . In fact, I was rather euphoric to be coming to a new country to be with my soul mate. Same year, I was divorced after 14 years of the *wrong* marriage to a wonderful person. Many other changes. I had idealized England for so many years. I took myself off my medications, a very stupid thing, thinking I no longer needed them, that maybe my depression had been situational. Hopeful thinking, and not the most rational, as I’d been medicated for depression (hospitalized twice) throughout past 20  years. But, I thought, "New Life…."      But changes: working 50+ hours per week to no work here due to 8 month wait for a visa, which finally arrived a couple of weeks ago & now I can’t work. Never much of a housewife, and that’s basically my job here,although husband quite understanding. Accustomed to lots of interaction with diverse socio-economic-cultural community. *Zero* interaction here, due to lack of transportation & no $ /

Question:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

Hummingbird says

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

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

Response:

Question:

Dear Brenda, Please tell me what it is about meds (Xanax in particular) that you are afraid of? Perhaps we could offer some help in that direction. I have been reading all of your posts and I am so distressed for you. I posted you awhile back about the safety of Xanax and offered some relaxation and breathing techniques. Have you tried them? I guess I just cannot understand how a medphobic can take Zoloft with all the anxiety it causes you and refuse to take Xanax which could ease or eliminate your suffering. Why do you fear Xanax so much? And I sincerely believe that it is your fear of it that increased your anxiety when you took it. Just my opinion, of course. I just cannot stand to see someone suffer when they do not have to. Worried about you, Kathryn

Response:

WEll last night I upped my Zoloft from 12.5 to 19mg.(big deal). Woke up at 6am took .25 Xanax went back to bed for about 2 hours. Here is the question. I am med phobic and have not upped my Xanax to .50mg 3x day. Still take .25.My main symptom is constant and I do mean hyperventilation and shortness of breath. Today is day 15 on the Zoloft. Well this afternoon I decided to take .37mg of Xanax (a 25mg pill and a half). Within 10 minutes my anxiety went up. Tried to distract myself then I felt the Xanax kicking in. I get real groggy BUT THE BREATHING STILL IS SHORT.I was afraid to up my dose cux what if it doesnt help the breathing then I will feel hopeless. I am still kinda shook up and depressed and afraid.Please tell me Im doing something wrong or this is just normal for day 15 upping the dosage and being med phobic. Brenda

Response:

Kathryn I think that my biggest fear of taking the Xanax is that it wouldnt work. Now I started off with .25. My problem is my breathing  (shortness of breath ans hyprventilation). I was hoping the Xanax would help be I really doesnt that much. It may take the edge off of the anxiety but the breathing  problem remains. Also did you read my ost where yesterday was the first day that I upped my Zoloft from 12.5 to 19mg. I will post about that later. Now another fear I battle is that I have always hated lose of control. And when I first took the Xanax I would get very groggy,symptoms still there but very groggy. I would have bad thoughts on what if I cant breathe and am too groggy to breathe. That wont happen in Jesus name but the thoughts still come. Now when I wake up at 5 or 6am and take .25mg Xanax I can go back to sleep. I dont know maybe Ill have to upped the Xanax gradually. The pdoc want me to take .50 3 times a day. Brenda

Response:

Kathryn I think that my biggest fear of taking the Xanax is that it wouldnt work.

Brenda, it is possibly, but highly unlikely that xanax won’t work for you – Xanax can calm an elephant!  But, I guarantee that if you don’t take it, it definitely won’t do a thing. Now I started off with .25. My problem is my breathing  (shortness of breath ans hyprventilation). I was hoping the Xanax would help be I really doesnt that much. It may take the edge off of the anxiety but the breathing  problem remains.

Xanax can lessen your anxiety, but it isn’t a cure all. I suspect that your hyperventilating/shortness of breath has become ingrained to the point were its become an almost automatic response. Xanax cannot undo that, no med can. But breathing exercises like those previously mentioned by another poster should.  The bottom  line in this Brenda is that drugs aren’t magic. They can help a great deal, but you have to make an effort too.  Sorry, but if this was easy, we wouldn’t all be here. Also did you read my ost where yesterday was the first day that I upped my Zoloft from 12.5 to 19mg. I will post about that later. Now another fear I battle is that I have always hated lose of control. And when I first took the Xanax I would get very groggy,symptoms still there but very groggy. I would have bad thoughts on what if I cant breathe and am too groggy to breathe.

Okay, firstly the grogginess will diminish as your body gets used to the Xanax. Secondly, Xanax won’t stop you breathing, even if you pass out. In fact you will probably breath better. What is happening at the moment is that the conscious parts of your brain are overriding the auto settings. Left to its own devises the autonomous system would be doing a better job than you are!!   Even when knocked unconscious most people continue to breath.   The benzos are very safe drugs, even when taken in enormous overdose quantities most people just sleep them off. That wont happen in Jesus name but the thoughts still come. Now when I wake up at 5 or 6am and take .25mg Xanax I can go back to sleep. I dont know maybe Ill have to upped the Xanax gradually. The pdoc want me to take .50 3 times a day. Brenda

tackle the increase at a pace you can cope with, but be assured, the meds won’t kill you, drug companies find it cheaper to keep repeat customers rather than continually having to find new ones!!!!. Take care Ian

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One of my fears about taking my ativan is that it wont work.  When i am in the middle of a PA, I always have the comforting thought of "At least I can always take my pill".  My fear is what if i take it and it still doesnt control my attack and my racing thoughts.  My biggest fear is that I will need to go to the hopital because I will not be able to reign myself back in.  Do you ever feel that way?  D

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OMG that is the biggest fear that I have with my Xanax and alot of the time it doesnt help me that much because of the extra anxiety I have. However I suppose to be taking .50 3x a day and I only take .25 sometimes twice. But I couldnt believe somebody else has the same fear though. Brenda

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One of my fears about taking my ativan is that it wont work.  When i am in the middle of a PA, I always have the comforting thought of "At least I can always take my pill".  My fear is what if i take it and it still doesnt control my attack and my racing thoughts.  My biggest fear is that I will need to go to the hopital because I will not be able to reign myself back in.  Do you ever feel that way?  D

Although, reports of antidepressants suddenly failing to work are becoming more common, its rare for his to happen with benzodiazepines. What may happen is that you begin requiring higher doses to achieve the same levels of control. But, most with anx/pan seem to gradually take/need less, not more benzos. Ian

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Ratzenfratzen ISP lost (or did receive) about two days worth of my newsgroup messages. So I had to do a deja search to find out what I missed. <grrrr I think that my biggest fear of taking the Xanax is that it wouldnt work. Now I

It certainly will not work if you do not take it. I know if I tried only .25 I wouldn’t notice a thing. I must take from .5 to 1mg to have any relief at all. There have been days when I have taken up to 2mgs at once. started off with .25. My problem is my breathing  (shortness of breath ans hyprventilation). I was hoping the Xanax would help be I really doesnt that much. It may take the edge off of the anxiety but the breathing  problem

Have you seen a doctor to make certain that your breathing problem is definitely physical? If it is not physical, that is, one of the many symptoms of anxiety and panic then Xanax can definitely help by letting you be calmer. When you are calmer you can breathe easier. I hope you have ruled out any physical cause such as asthma, though. remains. Also did you read my ost where yesterday was the first day that I upped my Zoloft from 12.5 to 19mg. I will post about that later. Now another

I read about it. Pretty gutsy! Good work! fear I battle is that I have always hated lose of control. And when I first took the Xanax I would get very groggy,symptoms still there but very groggy. I

The grogginess passes quickly (MUCH quicker that the side effects of Zoloft!) if you continue taking it. Maybe the symptoms are still there because of your fear of the grogginess or the Xanax not working. I hate the feeling of losing control, too. Which is why I don’t drink anymore. Hardly. But grogginess is not loss of control. When you are in a high anxiety state you are way too alert, sensitive to every little thing and your mind races ahead of you. Xanax can put the brakes on all of that and the drowsiness you feel just may be your body saying to you, “Thank goodness! Now maybe we can get some rest!“ would have bad thoughts on what if I cant breathe and am too groggy to breathe. That wont happen in Jesus name but the thoughts still come. Now when I wake up

Too groggy to breathe? Impossible in anyone’s name! In fact, I can guarantee you that you will breathe BETTER when you allow yourself to sleep. I have said it before and I will say it again that our bodies function quite nicely when we give it over to the brain’s automatic control system. Better, in fact! We muck things up by over thinking. We all just think too much!  You know, the Divine Creator gave us pretty nifty bodies and will take care of them for us just fine when we give them over to sleep. For that matter, the Creator gave us Xanax through providing the plant valerian and us the intellect to use it. at 5 or 6am and take .25mg Xanax I can go back to sleep. I dont know maybe Ill have to upped the Xanax gradually. The pdoc want me to take .50 3 times a day.

Up it as you wish. But do it. I want to hear some success stories from you! BTW, I take Xanax .5 every four hours (that’s about 4 to 5 times a day) PLUS I take 1 mg of Klonopin (another benzo) at bedtime. I have the okay from my pdoc to take extra of either if I need to. Which happens, but rarely. BTW, my husband has mentioned to me that I breathe slower and deeper when I am asleep. I was very happy to hear that because I still have to work on breathing that way (the CORRECT way) when I am awake. Have you asked your hubby how your breathing is when you sleep? If not, ask! I wager he will tell you the same thing. To MissMaine7, Hi. Have you ever taken an Ativan at the onset of a PA? If so, how much? Did it not work at all, work a little, or work well? Love and blessings to all, Kathryn

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Hey Melissa, I agree with everybody else that the "Prozac turns people into axe murderers" thing is a lot of hype. Some people do get worse on antidepressants – it happened to me on Wellbutrin (though a lot of that may have just been the natural course of the illness). But if you were one of these people, you’d know it! In regard to people who became violent/suicidal on antidepressants, they and their relatives claimed that they had no prior history of violence/suicidality, but to the best of my knowledge, closer examination revealed that they did have histories. One other thing – if this helps any, the sleepwalking/axe-murdering (or whatever it was) story involved a person on *Halcion*, not an antidepressant. -elizabeth

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Thanks to all of you for assuaging my fears about zoloft and axe-murderers. Sometimes I need to hear it from others before it "sinks in."  Take care, Melissa

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Quick question.  I’ve been on Zoloft for four weeks now with very desirable results…getting out more, driving alone, etc. But after reading some of the stuff posted about SSRI’s causing people to commit suicide, homicide, or other atrocities, I’m freaked!!  Someone please tell me that I’m not going to sleepwalk and axe murder little kids!  I mean, all that stuff was political *wasn’t* it?? Thanks!  Melissa

Melissa, relax. Most of these claims are a lot of ::insert favourite expletive here::  Some have been spread by a particular organisation that has it’s own ideas about how psychological disorders should be treated (giving them lots a money, in the main) and some lawyers have tried to implicate them as being responsible for their client’s crimes. However, the only one that may be applicable is that some people on SSRIs have committed suicide. So have a lot of people that were not taking SSRIs. The fact is that many, if not most, were taking SSRIs because they were at risk. I’m one of those that cannot handle the effects of SSRIs – I get really wired on them, but I’ve never found that they have lead me to do something I wouldn’t normally contemplate. One the assumption that your cellar isn’t already stacked to the ceiling with the remains of your victims, after 4 weeks your should be reasonably safe!   :-^) Ian BTW-If you suddenly get the urge to commit henious acts apon *Moat Monsters* then up the Zoloft dose and give me a call!   <VVVBEG  

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Quick question.  I’ve been on Zoloft for four weeks now with very desirable results…getting out more, driving alone, etc. But after reading some of the stuff posted about SSRI’s causing people to commit suicide, homicide, or other atrocities, I’m freaked!!  Someone please tell me that I’m not going to sleepwalk and axe murder little kids!  I mean, all that stuff was political *wasn’t* it?? Thanks!  Melissa

Hi Melissa! Don’t worry! You’re definitely *not* going to sleepwalk and axe murder little kids. (There, I said it ) These stories *are* political indeed and if the odd criminal happened to be on an antidepressant that doesn’t mean that the antidepressant was the cause of his acts. Many criminals drink milk, I suppose, but milk won’t cause them to commit murders. In these *stories* it’s always Prozac BTW and never Zoloft, so I think you’re in the clear…;)) And it’s great that Zoloft is agreeing so well with you! Philip

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HI Melissa, If you have been on Zoloft for a few weeks and are doing good, IMO, don’t worry.  I am one of those people who had a bad time with Prozac, but my BAD symptoms developed after only 3 days on it. Cathy When we talk to God we’re praying. When God talks to us we’re schizophrenic. –Lily Tomlin P.H.O.B.I.A. Off-line Panic/Anxiety Support Group Learn about us at http://community.nj.com/cc/phobia

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Quick question.  I’ve been on Zoloft for four weeks now with very desirable results…getting out more, driving alone, etc. But after reading some of the stuff posted about SSRI’s causing people to commit suicide, homicide, or other atrocities, I’m freaked!!  Someone please tell me that I’m not going to sleepwalk and axe murder little kids!  I mean, all that stuff was political *wasn’t* it?? Thanks!  Melissa

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Quick question.  I’ve been on Zoloft for four weeks now with very desirable results…getting out more, driving alone, etc. But after reading some of the stuff posted about SSRI’s causing people to commit suicide, homicide, or other atrocities, I’m freaked!!  Someone please tell me that I’m not going to sleepwalk and axe murder little kids!  I mean, all that stuff was political *wasn’t* it?? Thanks!  Melissa

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Quick question.  I’ve been on Zoloft for four weeks now with very desirable results…getting out more, driving alone, etc. But after reading some of the stuff posted about SSRI’s causing people to commit suicide, homicide, or other atrocities, I’m freaked!!  Someone please tell me that I’m not going to sleepwalk and axe murder little kids!  I mean, all that stuff was political *wasn’t* it??

Hi Melissa, I can quarantee that we will not be hearing about you in the news, because you commited some despicable act<G. I think this all stems from the Prozac rumours. I am sure on very rare occassion, someone on Prozac killed themselves, but can we say for sure that the Prozac made them do it? I don`t think so. And there a few people who had bad reactions on Prozac, but you can have a bad reaction on any med there is. I am a med phobic, and if I felt there was any truth to what you fear, I would never had gone on it. I am fine, and nothing happened to me. And being you have been on Zoloft 4 weeks, the side-effects you have now, are it…..and they should start diminishing. You are going to be fine, stop worrying and enjoy how well you are feeling on the Zoloft…..that is what Zoloft is suppose to do, not make you crazy.  Take Care!! Jackie ~Dreams that come true can be as unsetting as those that don’t.~

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