- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’ve been taking Serevent 2 puffs twice a day and Flovent two puffs twice a day for about 6 months with amazing results. I’ve gotten to the point that I rarely use my Proventil which is almost a miracle to me. In the last week or so I’ve started having anxiety-like attacks in the evening. I don’t have racing hearbeat but I feel extremely anxious and weird. Kinda like I took too much Theo-Dur, if any of you know that feeling. It is very intense. The only thing I can link it to is the evening dose of Serevent. Has anyone else had this? Maybe I only need to take the Serevent in the a.m.? I’m going to see my doc but thought I would ask here just in case he tries to tell me I’m nuts (G). Thanks for your help. CarolR
Saw my doctor today and he said the Serevent can cause the anxiety problems. He suggested I try 1 puff twice a day, or 2 puffs in the a.m. and 1 at night to see if that would work. Also told me to use my peak flow meter to see if I even needed to the Serevent to open the airways. I had been using to open it up so the Flovent would work. So…we shall see how it goes. Thanks for all your notes. CarolR
I’ve been taking Serevent 2 puffs twice a day and Flovent two puffs twice a day for about 6 months with amazing results. I’ve gotten to the point that I rarely use my Proventil which is almost a miracle to me. In the last week or so I’ve started having anxiety-like attacks in the evening. I don’t have racing hearbeat but I feel extremely anxious and weird. Kinda like I took too much Theo-Dur, if any of you know that feeling. It is very intense. The only thing I can link it to is the evening dose of Serevent. Has anyone else had this? Maybe I only need to take the Serevent in the a.m.? I’m going to see my doc but thought I would ask here just in case he tries to tell me I’m nuts (G). Thanks for your help. CarolR
You are not nuts. I had the same experience and had to eventually cut out the Serevent due to the anxiety attacks. I know I am very sensitive to medications, and even one puff once a day was too much for me. I am feeling alot better as far as the anxiety goes since stopping Serevent. Hope this helps.
You are not nuts. I had the same experience and had to eventually cut out the Serevent due to the anxiety attacks. I know I am very sensitive to medications, and even one puff once a day was too much for me. I am feeling alot better as far as the anxiety goes since stopping Serevent. Hope this helps.
It helps a lot. At least I know I’m not the only one this has happened to! What’s weird is that it doesn’t happen witht he morning dose but just the evening dose. Maybe I can only take 1 dose a day now? I didn’t take it this morning and I found I really needed it. Is nothing simple anymore?? (G) CarolR
Hello: This is EXACTLY why I stopped taking serevent. The exact same symptoms you have. You know, I don’t know why there is so much emphasis on using serevent to get off of a shorter acting type of albuterol. In my opinion, serevent has more severe side effects. I’d talk to your doctor about stopping the serevent. The flovent for me made a HUGE difference. Mabye up that if it gets worse when you go off the serevent. On 12 Aug 1999, – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been taking Serevent 2 puffs twice a day and Flovent two puffs twice a day for about 6 months with amazing results. I’ve gotten to the point that I rarely use my Proventil which is almost a miracle to me. In the last week or so I’ve started having anxiety-like attacks in the evening. I don’t have racing hearbeat but I feel extremely anxious and weird. Kinda like I took too much Theo-Dur, if any of you know that feeling. It is very intense. The only thing I can link it to is the evening dose of Serevent. Has anyone else had this? Maybe I only need to take the Serevent in the a.m.? I’m going to see my doc but thought I would ask here just in case he tries to tell me I’m nuts (G). Thanks for your help. CarolR
Jennifer Gerbi http://www.students.uiuc.edu/~gerbi Univ. of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 1-113 ESB (217)244-0332
I saw the first therapist again, because the first session was mostly a case history; this year’s been really incredible. She said I pretty much had GAD and some depression, which is what I thought. We had a CBT session on my topmost issue, which is giving up our place in town and having to move to my wife’s place out in the country. She showed me I was catastrophizing there and had me look at alternatives. I did see that CBT is no deep dark mystery; it’s what I used to call "brainstorming": toss out alternatives with someone else and try a few. I think I could work with her. I’ll admit, I couldn’t have heard from someone at the public clinic about the moving issue, since I was afraid they wouldn’t be sympathetic; many of their clients are one step from being out on the street! So now I feel better about the public clinic. I also know that I have an alternative. Since I’m getting my meds (Effexor XR, 150 mg; Depakote 1000 mg) at the clinic, it would be better to have them coordinate. I’ll give it all more thought. Dennis — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Hi, Dennis, Sounds like the therapy appointment went well. Please keep us updated on how it is going… smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I saw the first therapist again, because the first session was mostly a case history; this year’s been really incredible. She said I pretty much had GAD and some depression, which is what I thought. We had a CBT session on my topmost issue, which is giving up our place in town and having to move to my wife’s place out in the country. She showed me I was catastrophizing there and had me look at alternatives. I did see that CBT is no deep dark mystery; it’s what I used to call "brainstorming": toss out alternatives with someone else and try a few. I think I could work with her. I’ll admit, I couldn’t have heard from someone at the public clinic about the moving issue, since I was afraid they wouldn’t be sympathetic; many of their clients are one step from being out on the street! So now I feel better about the public clinic. I also know that I have an alternative. Since I’m getting my meds (Effexor XR, 150 mg; Depakote 1000 mg) at the clinic, it would be better to have them coordinate. I’ll give it all more thought. Dennis — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Hi Y’all! Doing better today. Been hungry! That’s a good sign. It means my PMS is stronger than my withdrawal symptoms! I’m not suprised. Vivid dreams I can’t remember last night. Slept all the way through. There’s really not much to report. I was bouncing off the walls yesterday. Kava helped, as usual. So did yoga and an after dinner walk in the neighborhood. I have shin-splints. Interestingly, I wasn’t tired last night until later than usual, (11:00), but when I was it hit all at once. Nothing gradual or subtle about it. Life without meds may actually be possible for me. It’s looking good so far. After 15 years of struggle with anxiety, panic, and an assortment of other secondary disorders there may actually be some hope for a life! I hope someone out there reads this and catches some hope for themselves. Be Well! PW
I’ve been following this thread and I’m glad to hear you’re doing well without meds. I orginally didn’t respond since I was never on Zoloft nor do I have PMS 
I’m curious. Was it easier to wean on or off Zoloft? I had a hell of a time weaning onto Paxil CR and after 3 months of it not working, I decided to forget about it but had no problems stopping it. BTW How’s Kava effectiveness? Do you take it as needed or daily? Oh and don’t be afraid to throw some of that hope my way Kevin… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Y’all! Doing better today. Been hungry! That’s a good sign. It means my PMS is stronger than my withdrawal symptoms! I’m not suprised. Vivid dreams I can’t remember last night. Slept all the way through. There’s really not much to report. I was bouncing off the walls yesterday. Kava helped, as usual. So did yoga and an after dinner walk in the neighborhood. I have shin-splints. Interestingly, I wasn’t tired last night until later than usual, (11:00), but when I was it hit all at once. Nothing gradual or subtle about it. Life without meds may actually be possible for me. It’s looking good so far. After 15 years of struggle with anxiety, panic, and an assortment of other secondary disorders there may actually be some hope for a life! I hope someone out there reads this and catches some hope for themselves. Be Well! PW
It’s definately easier coming on Zoloft than off, for me. I was lethargic at first, but after getting up to 50mg it only took about a week to get level. The total time was about 3 weeks. Then I had a LOT of energy. Bear in mind that I was extremely depressed by the time I started on Zoloft so in contract I felt quite energetic. The reality was that I was feeling level. Coming off is harder. I feel wired for about 3 days, then I level out for about a week, then I cut the dosage by 50% and start all over again. Paxil was hell for me. I was a vegetable on it, crying all the time – very depressed. Kava works really well for me during those few days when i’m wired, coming off. It takes some of the edge off, though just enough that I don’t feel like being mean to anyone or running over slow people in my car! My anxiety is scary. I get impatient, critical, irritable, consescending and generally unpleasant to be around at all before I become downright verbally violent. I called someone a bitch on the phone yesterday. True, she was being incompetent at her job, but it didn’t help the situation to vent like that. I take the kava as needed. I usually need it around lunchtime. I get edgy when I get hungry. Then again in the evenings when I want to wind down and relax if I feel too keyed up to sit still. I haven’t needed it much lately. I anticipate not needing it all in a month. PW
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been following this thread and I’m glad to hear you’re doing well without meds. I orginally didn’t respond since I was never on Zoloft nor do I have PMS I’m curious. Was it easier to wean on or off Zoloft? I had a hell of a time weaning onto Paxil CR and after 3 months of it not working, I decided to forget about it but had no problems stopping it. BTW How’s Kava effectiveness? Do you take it as needed or daily? Oh and don’t be afraid to throw some of that hope my way Kevin… Hi Y’all! Doing better today. Been hungry! That’s a good sign. It means my PMS is stronger than my withdrawal symptoms! I’m not suprised. Vivid dreams I can’t remember last night. Slept all the way through. There’s really not much to report. I was bouncing off the walls yesterday. Kava helped, as usual. So did yoga and an after dinner walk in the neighborhood. I have shin-splints. Interestingly, I wasn’t tired last night until later than usual, (11:00), but when I was it hit all at once. Nothing gradual or subtle about it. Life without meds may actually be possible for me. It’s looking good so far. After 15 years of struggle with anxiety, panic, and an assortment of other secondary disorders there may actually be some hope for a life! I hope someone out there reads this and catches some hope for themselves. Be Well! PW
Thanks for your input. I’ve researched and read about the liver damage. Where do you recommend buying the best Kava? How much do yo take each day? DiA
Thanks for your input. I’ve researched and read about the liver damage. Where do you recommend buying the best Kava? How much do yo take each day? DiA
DiA, I’ve been using several labels of an extract called Kaviar(TM). You can read background info on their product(s) at http://www.cosmopolitantrading.com/ I’ve used their soft gels; they’re quite good, but take a bit longer to get into your system because it’s a thick paste inside of a softgel (available from Source Naturals as Kava Gold softgels – http://www.vitacost.com/Store/products/Products.cfm?SubCategoryID=313… own1=product I have a slight preference for their powdered version because of the bioabsorption issue; I get it from http://www.health-pages.com/kk/index.html PW is using one of the Gaia Herbs products (not sure if it’s the tincture or the phyto-capsules). I’ve not tried them, but they have an excellent reputation, and the liquid versions do work much faster. My dosage level flucuates because I supplement the capsules with "kava tonics" I make from raw powder; I probably average around 700 mg/day. The medical impllications of prolonged daily use at that level is very uncertain. Start with one or two capsules and evaluate your response. Next time increase the dosage by another capsule until you get what feels like a good response. Take kava on an empty stomach, no matter what the label says, and wait awhile (about an hour, but it varies by individual, before you eat) If you get to 300mg without any significant effect, then kava may not work for you, but give it 3-4 days at a consistent dosage level before you drop it; sometimes it takes a while for the full effect to settle in. Hope it works for you, but even if not, I’d be interested in hearing your opinion. Figaro
Thanks for the info..I do have more anxiety and no depression anymore and thats why I think the Kava may be better.. It’s worth a try, anyway:) DiA
I coud use some of that hope, too,PW, so send some my way! Have been taking St, John’s but will try the Kava after reading about it,. DiA
St. John’s Wort is an anti-depressant. Kava-kava is (primarily) an anti-anxiety drug; it won’t help mood unless you have anxiety-driven depression. If you take both, the SJW will interfere with the effectiveness of the kava. You *must* research kava extensively before you take it on a regular basis. There are unresolved health issues involving possible liver damage. Make an informed decision. Although I’m a regular kava user I try not to advocate nor discourage its use by anyone else. That statement notwithstanding, my personal opinion is that kava has the potential to be an outstanding alternative to the benzodiazepenes, but the current kava products on the market varying in effectiveness from useless to excellent, so you may need to try several before finding one that works for you.
I coud use some of that hope, too,PW, so send some my way! Have been taking St, John’s but will try the Kava after reading about it,. DiA
DiA I have read that St. John’s wort is good for depression. It can be a bit stimulating. I skirt away from it because by depression is secondary to my anxiety. I am not really qualified to make any suggestions, though I can offer some of my own prsonal experience. St. John’s Wort never helped me at all. It never hurt me either. Though it can aggravate some ppls’ anxiety – so I’ve read. PW
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I coud use some of that hope, too,PW, so send some my way! Have been taking St, John’s but will try the Kava after reading about it,. DiA
It’s definately easier coming on Zoloft than off, for me. I was lethargic at first, but after getting up to 50mg it only took about a week to get level. The total time was about 3 weeks. Then I had a LOT of energy. Bear in mind that I was extremely depressed by the time I started on Zoloft so in contract I felt quite energetic. The reality was that I was feeling
level. I had the same reaction to Paxil but I was taking it for anxiety and was on a mania streak the entire 3 months I was on it. Thanfully I had Xanax to calm me down. Coming off is harder. I feel wired for about 3 days, then I level out for about a week, then I cut the dosage by 50% and start all over again. Paxil was hell for me. I was a vegetable on it, crying all the time – very depressed. Kava works really well for me during those few days when i’m wired, coming off. It takes some of the edge off, though just enough that I don’t feel like being mean to anyone or running over slow people in my car! My anxiety is scary. I get impatient, critical, irritable, consescending and generally unpleasant to be around at all before I become downright verbally violent.
We have something in common but my anger has nothing to do my anxiety. Still trying to figure out what it is. I have these rage relapses once on a while and cannot control it right in the middle of it. But they usually only last one day now. I was in this state of mind for years in the past. Suicidal up the ying yang. I called someone a bitch on the phone yesterday. True, she was being incompetent at her job, but it didn’t help the situation to vent like that. I take the kava as needed. I usually need it around lunchtime. I get edgy when I get hungry.
Remind me to never get on your bad side : ) Then again in the evenings when I want to wind down and relax if I feel too keyed up to sit still. I haven’t needed it much lately. I anticipate not needing it all in a month.
Good, I’m glad you’re succesfully weaning off of it…
Thanks! Have a good one Ms. PW, Kevin…
Thanks (((((Everyone))))) For such a warm welcome (back) lol. I’m feeling so good this evening! Yay. Kirsten
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Everyone, It’s been a long long time since I’ve been here. Some of you might remeber me. My name is Kirsten (Kadie). I wont give any excuses cause there are none. I just haven’t bothered posting. I wish now that I had because you guys where allways so great to me. I’m doing alright, been better, been worse. I’m still busy with school. I am so behind but trying to keep up. Brad and I split up about a week ago for good and we are friends now. I think I like it better. I still love him and he still loves me but we have to much on our own to deal with and don’t need a realtionship too. I’m doing pretty good with my panic attacks. I’m having them every once in a while like i had one the other night but I’m getting better at controling them. I’m no longer on Celexa. I was on Celexa and Wellbutrin and Dr.C took me off of Wellbutrin because it stopped working and then off od Celexa to and I am now on Effexor. I’m up to 75mg’s daily now and I’m not doing to bad considering I guess. I’m having a bad time with my depression still though and have some other issues (realated to the depression) to deal with. but I think I’m getting there. I’m hoping everyone is doing good? I’m sorry I haven’t been posting and like I said there is no excuses so I’m not going to bother trying to come up with any. I’ll just try and post more often 
— Kirsten http://violent-minds.org ICQ: 48606790
:I’m hoping everyone is doing good? I’m sorry I haven’t been posting and like :I said there is no excuses so I’m not going to bother trying to come up with :any. I’ll just try and post more often Dear Kirsten, Welcome back!~ Don`t worry about not posting, people are allowed to come and go as freely as they want, there are no rules here Sorry about your breakup with Brad 
{{{{{Kirsten}}}}} Jackie ~*~My life has been a tapestry of rich and royal hue, an everlasting vision of the everchanging view~*~ ~Carole King~
Hi Kirsten! Good to see you here. Please don’t apologize. This is only reserved for me. <g Just kidding. I’m sorry about you and Brad, but glad to see you’re still friends. I hope Effexor helps with the depression. Love, Di
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Everyone, It’s been a long long time since I’ve been here. Some of you might remeber me. My name is Kirsten (Kadie). I wont give any excuses cause there are none. I just haven’t bothered posting. I wish now that I had because you guys where allways so great to me. I’m doing alright, been better, been worse. I’m still busy with school. I am so behind but trying to keep up. Brad and I split up about a week ago for good and we are friends now. I think I like it better. I still love him and he still loves me but we have to much on our own to deal with and don’t need a realtionship too. I’m doing pretty good with my panic attacks. I’m having them every once in a while like i had one the other night but I’m getting better at controling them. I’m no longer on Celexa. I was on Celexa and Wellbutrin and Dr.C took me off of Wellbutrin because it stopped working and then off od Celexa to and I am now on Effexor. I’m up to 75mg’s daily now and I’m not doing to bad considering I guess. I’m having a bad time with my depression still though and have some other issues (realated to the depression) to deal with. but I think I’m getting there. I’m hoping everyone is doing good? I’m sorry I haven’t been posting and like I said there is no excuses so I’m not going to bother trying to come up with any. I’ll just try and post more often — Kirsten http://violent-minds.org ICQ: 48606790
Good to see you again, Kirsten. Effexor is a good med for depression. Chip
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Everyone, It’s been a long long time since I’ve been here. Some of you might remeber me. My name is Kirsten (Kadie). I wont give any excuses cause there are none. I just haven’t bothered posting. I wish now that I had because you guys where allways so great to me. I’m doing alright, been better, been worse. I’m still busy with school. I am so behind but trying to keep up. Brad and I split up about a week ago for good and we are friends now. I think I like it better. I still love him and he still loves me but we have to much on our own to deal with and don’t need a realtionship too. I’m doing pretty good with my panic attacks. I’m having them every once in a while like i had one the other night but I’m getting better at controling them. I’m no longer on Celexa. I was on Celexa and Wellbutrin and Dr.C took me off of Wellbutrin because it stopped working and then off od Celexa to and I am now on Effexor. I’m up to 75mg’s daily now and I’m not doing to bad considering I guess. I’m having a bad time with my depression still though and have some other issues (realated to the depression) to deal with. but I think I’m getting there. I’m hoping everyone is doing good? I’m sorry I haven’t been posting and like I said there is no excuses so I’m not going to bother trying to come up with any. I’ll just try and post more often — Kirsten http://violent-minds.org ICQ: 48606790
Hi Kirsten, You don’t need any excuses for not posting. Real life is more important for us all. Glad to have you back! Take care, Liz – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Everyone, It’s been a long long time since I’ve been here. Some of you might remeber me. My name is Kirsten (Kadie). I wont give any excuses cause there are none. I just haven’t bothered posting. I wish now that I had because you guys where allways so great to me. I’m doing alright, been better, been worse. I’m still busy with school. I am so behind but trying to keep up. Brad and I split up about a week ago for good and we are friends now. I think I like it better. I still love him and he still loves me but we have to much on our own to deal with and don’t need a realtionship too. I’m doing pretty good with my panic attacks. I’m having them every once in a while like i had one the other night but I’m getting better at controling them. I’m no longer on Celexa. I was on Celexa and Wellbutrin and Dr.C took me off of Wellbutrin because it stopped working and then off od Celexa to and I am now on Effexor. I’m up to 75mg’s daily now and I’m not doing to bad considering I guess. I’m having a bad time with my depression still though and have some other issues (realated to the depression) to deal with. but I think I’m getting there. I’m hoping everyone is doing good? I’m sorry I haven’t been posting and like I said there is no excuses so I’m not going to bother trying to come up with any. I’ll just try and post more often — Kirsten http://violent-minds.org ICQ: 48606790
Hi, Kirsten, Yes, I remember you. Glad to know you are doing fairly well. Sorry to hear about you and Brad but if you are able to remain friends, that’s terrific. Hope the Effexor helps you. Zoloft really lifted a lot of my depression. smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Everyone, It’s been a long long time since I’ve been here. Some of you might remeber me. My name is Kirsten (Kadie). I wont give any excuses cause there are none. I just haven’t bothered posting. I wish now that I had because you guys where allways so great to me. I’m doing alright, been better, been worse. I’m still busy with school. I am so behind but trying to keep up. Brad and I split up about a week ago for good and we are friends now. I think I like it better. I still love him and he still loves me but we have to much on our own to deal with and don’t need a realtionship too. I’m doing pretty good with my panic attacks. I’m having them every once in a while like i had one the other night but I’m getting better at controling them. I’m no longer on Celexa. I was on Celexa and Wellbutrin and Dr.C took me off of Wellbutrin because it stopped working and then off od Celexa to and I am now on Effexor. I’m up to 75mg’s daily now and I’m not doing to bad considering I guess. I’m having a bad time with my depression still though and have some other issues (realated to the depression) to deal with. but I think I’m getting there. I’m hoping everyone is doing good? I’m sorry I haven’t been posting and like I said there is no excuses so I’m not going to bother trying to come up with any. I’ll just try and post more often — Kirsten http://violent-minds.org ICQ: 48606790
Hi Everyone, It’s been a long long time since I’ve been here. Some of you might remeber me. My name is Kirsten (Kadie). I wont give any excuses cause there are none. I just haven’t bothered posting. I wish now that I had because you guys where allways so great to me. I’m doing alright, been better, been worse. I’m still busy with school. I am so behind but trying to keep up. Brad and I split up about a week ago for good and we are friends now. I think I like it better. I still love him and he still loves me but we have to much on our own to deal with and don’t need a realtionship too. I’m doing pretty good with my panic attacks. I’m having them every once in a while like i had one the other night but I’m getting better at controling them. I’m no longer on Celexa. I was on Celexa and Wellbutrin and Dr.C took me off of Wellbutrin because it stopped working and then off od Celexa to and I am now on Effexor. I’m up to 75mg’s daily now and I’m not doing to bad considering I guess. I’m having a bad time with my depression still though and have some other issues (realated to the depression) to deal with. but I think I’m getting there. I’m hoping everyone is doing good? I’m sorry I haven’t been posting and like I said there is no excuses so I’m not going to bother trying to come up with any. I’ll just try and post more often — Kirsten http://violent-minds.org ICQ: 48606790
Folks, I’ve been on the Paxil for about five weeks now, feeling better but really experiencing the sexual side effects of the Paxil. I have heard that Serzone gives you all the benefits of Paxil and No sexual side effects. Can anyone respond both pro and con for switching to Serzone. I’d like to get my drive/libido back. Also if you have made the switch from Paxil how did you do it, were you weaned off the Paxil slowly or just a cold turkey switch to the serzone. Thanks in advance for any and all responses. — Dan ICQ 108553906
I’ve been on the Paxil for about five weeks now, feeling better but really experiencing the sexual side effects of the Paxil. I have heard that Serzone gives you all the benefits of Paxil and No sexual side effects. Can anyone respond both pro and con for switching to Serzone. I’d like to get my drive/libido back. Also if you have made the switch from Paxil how did you do it, were you weaned off the Paxil slowly or just a cold turkey switch to the serzone.
My doctor switched me from paxil to serzone just before new year’s. No weaning — quit paxil one day, started serzone the next. I can definitely attest to the fact that serzone doesn’t depress libido the way paxil did. However, I’m not as certain that the serzone is as effective as paxil was in controlling anxiety. I *do* know that I’m prepared to stick with the serzone….. — Tom
I have had no sexual side effects as a result of taking Serzone. It has also gotten rid of my insomnia. I took Paxil for one day and it freaked me out!
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been on the Paxil for about five weeks now, feeling better but really experiencing the sexual side effects of the Paxil. I have heard that Serzone gives you all the benefits of Paxil and No sexual side effects. Can anyone respond both pro and con for switching to Serzone. I’d like to get my drive/libido back. Also if you have made the switch from Paxil how did you do it, were you weaned off the Paxil slowly or just a cold turkey switch to the serzone. My doctor switched me from paxil to serzone just before new year’s. No weaning — quit paxil one day, started serzone the next. I can definitely attest to the fact that serzone doesn’t depress libido the way paxil did. However, I’m not as certain that the serzone is as effective as paxil was in controlling anxiety. I *do* know that I’m prepared to stick with the serzone….. — Tom
Danny, I didn’t go from Paxil to Serzone but did go Zoloft-Wellbutrin-Serzone, which I now have been on for about five months. With the Wellbutrin I ramped off, and then began the "starter pack" of Serzone. But even the lowest dosage I found intolerable at first – it upset my stomach and made me feel like I had drank ten cups of coffee. I had to break the beginning pills in half to make it comfortable and move up from there. Once you’re on it it’s fine, but it’s bumpy getting there. As far as libido or sexual side effects there were none . . . . at first. However (and this could just be me, obviously) at about the four month mark I did start to have problems, similar to what the Zoloft was doing. It disperses my concentration to the point where it’s very difficult to "finish" in bed. I don’t know why it took this long to kick in, but it did. I’m currently at 150mg twice a day, and at one point my doc tried to increase it to 400 total. That DIDN’T work, made me feel like a zombie and totally screwed with my physical coordination, so I went back to 300. But I’m seriously thinking of ramping off it entirely, not just because of the sexual problem but other side effects as well. I’ll call my doc and talk about it. Good luck to you, however, and don’t take my experience as a negative for trying Serzone. I’ve noticed on the other meds many times I have an unusual reaction which just proves we all react differently to some degree. Wayne
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Folks, I’ve been on the Paxil for about five weeks now, feeling better but really experiencing the sexual side effects of the Paxil. I have heard that Serzone gives you all the benefits of Paxil and No sexual side effects. Can anyone respond both pro and con for switching to Serzone. I’d like to get my drive/libido back. Also if you have made the switch from Paxil how did you do it, were you weaned off the Paxil slowly or just a cold turkey switch to the serzone. Thanks in advance for any and all responses. — Dan ICQ 108553906
On or about Mon, 15 Jan 2001 15:19:41 GMT, "MS" <marshmall…@yahoo.com
did apparently write: commonly used slow serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
ROTFL! What a load of BS … — -john
I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety. Thank you.
R.P. <addr…@reply-to.is.accurate
wrote in message
news:9325bq$640$1@slb7.atl.mindspring.net…
I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety. Thank you.
I had a lot of luck with Kava Kava for anxiety, but it brought back eczema that had lain dormant for over 6 years (and which I have yet to get rid of). Take care if you have any dermatological problems.
My psychiatrist said it was useless for OCD. Only good for *mild* depression. Ida R.P. <addr…@reply-to.is.accurate
wrote in message
news:9325bq$640$1@slb7.atl.mindspring.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety. Thank you.
In article < 933137$vs…@slb6.atl.mindspring.net
,
"Bill & Ida Kern" < clooney…@mindspring.com
wrote: My psychiatrist said it was useless for OCD. Only good for *mild* depression. Ida
The interesting thing with St. John’s Wort, is that it alters the ‘mood/mind’ enough to allow an objective and clear perspective of the Self. And therefore a clear insight into those parts of the Self that causes the depression. Is your intent to clear yourself of the depression?… or clear yourself of the sources of that depression? The Wort (like LSD; magic mushrooms; kava-kava) open-up the psyche for deeper investigation… rather than offer a cure-all. Later Gerrit Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/
On Fri, 05 Jan 2001 00:44:03 GMT, Gerrit Deppe <gerrit_de…@my-deja.com
wrote:
The interesting thing with St. John’s Wort, is that it alters the ‘mood/mind’ enough to allow an objective and clear perspective of the Self. And therefore a clear insight into those parts of the Self that causes the depression. Is your intent to clear yourself of the depression?… or clear yourself of the sources of that depression?
Translation: SJW is not strong enough to cure many cases of depression by itself, and works best with psychotherapy combination. By extension, an SSRI plus that kind of psychotherapy ought to be better yet? — The above from: address is spamblocked. Use wherrera (at) lynxview (dot) com for the reply address.
Dear R.P., I have used Kava for anxiety and it does help though if your anxiety is high it may take a few days for it to really catch up with you. To be on it is to be mellow but alert at the same time so I think it would help with OCD. Rusty "R.P." <addr…@reply-to.is.accurate
wrote in message
news:9325bq$640$1@slb7.atl.mindspring.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety. Thank you.
"R.P." <addr…@reply-to.is.accurate
wrote in message
news:9325bq$640$1@slb7.atl.mindspring.net…
I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety.
Here is some info. I found on St. John’s Wort and OCD: "Gridrunner: Have you heard of some success using St. John’s Wort or 5-htp to lessen OCD? Dr. Jenike: Yes, there are a few cases where St. John’s Wort has helped OCD. In Germany, there are dozens of studies using SJW for mild to moderate depression, but its use for treating OCD is relatively new. I have tried it in quite a few patients, with not much success. But then again, most of the patients I see now, are on the more severe end of the spectrum." – http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/OCD/site/transcripts/obsession s_ocd.htm See also: http://www.biopsychiatry.com/stjohnocd.htm
Recent studies have shown SJW to be equally as effective as Zoloft (sertraline) and Prozac (fluoxetine) in mild to moderate depression. It also seems to have a better side-effect profile. See the references below: – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – Equivalence of St John’s wort extract (Ze 117) and fluoxetine: a randomized, controlled study in mild-moderate depression. Schrader E Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2000 Mar;15(2):61-8 Treatment with St John’s wort extract tablets (hypericum Ze 117) and the commonly used slow serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine was compared in patients with mild-moderate depression with entry Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D) (21-item) in the range 16-24, in a randomized, double-blind, parallel group comparison in 240 subjects; fluoxetine: 114 (48%), hypericum: 126 (52%). After 6 weeks’ treatment, mean HAM-D at endpoint decreased to 11.54 on hypericum and to 12.20 on fluoxetine (P < 0.09), while mean Clinical Global Impression (CGI) item I (severity) was significantly (P < 0.03) superior on hypericum, as was the responder rate (P = 0.005). Hypericum safety was substantially superior to fluoxetine, with the incidence of adverse events being 23% on fluoxetine and 8% on hypericum. The commonest events on fluoxetine were agitation (8%), GI disturbances (6%), retching (4%), dizziness (4%), tiredness, anxiety/nervousness and erectile dysfunction (3% each), while on hypericum only GI disturbances (5%) had an incidence greater than 2%. We concluded that hypericum and fluoxetine are equipotent with respect to all main parameters used to investigate antidepressants in this population. Although hypericum may be superior in improving the responder rate, the main difference between the two treatments is safety. Hypericum was superior to fluoxetine in overall incidence of side-effects, number of patients with side-effects and the type of side-effect reported. – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – "Comparison of an extract of hypericum (LI 160) and sertraline in the treatment of depression: a double-blind, randomized pilot study." Brenner R, Azbel V, Madhusoodanan S, Pawlowska M Clin Ther 2000 Apr;22(4):411-9 BACKGROUND: Hypericum (St. John’s wort) has been shown to be as efficacious and well tolerated as standard antidepressants in the treatment of depression but has not been compared with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). OBJECTIVE: This study compared hypericum and the SSRI sertraline in the treatment of depression. METHODS: In a double-blind, randomized study conducted in a community hospital, 30 male and female outpatients (19 women, 11 men; mean age, 45.5 years) with mild to moderate depression received 600 mg/d of a standardized extract of hypericum (LI 160) or 50 mg/d sertraline for I week, followed by hypericum 900 mg/d or sertraline 75 mg/d for 6 weeks. RESULTS: The severity of symptoms, as assessed by scores on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) and the Clinical Global Impression scale, was significantly reduced in both treatment groups (P < 0.01). Clinical response (defined as a
or =50%
reduction in HAM-D scores) was noted in 47% of patients receiving hypericum and 40% of those receiving sertraline. The difference was not statistically significant. Both agents were well tolerated. A post hoc power analysis indicated that failure to reach statistical significance between treatments resulted primarily from an absence of clinical differences rather than the small sample size. CONCLUSION: The hypericum extract was at least as effective as sertraline in the treatment of mild to moderate depression in a small group of outpatients. William Herrera <posting.acco…@lynxview.com
wrote in message
news:3a554404.167049393@news.rmi.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
On Fri, 05 Jan 2001 00:44:03 GMT, Gerrit Deppe <gerrit_de…@my-deja.com wrote: The interesting thing with St. John’s Wort, is that it alters the ‘mood/mind’ enough to allow an objective and clear perspective of the Self. And therefore a clear insight into those parts of the Self that causes the depression. Is your intent to clear yourself of the depression?… or clear yourself of the sources of that depression? Translation: SJW is not strong enough to cure many cases of depression by itself, and works best with psychotherapy combination. By extension, an SSRI plus that kind of psychotherapy ought to be better
yet?
— The above from: address is spamblocked. Use wherrera (at) lynxview (dot)
com for the reply address.
Hi Everyone, I haven’t posted here before- I’m hoping to find someone here who understands what I’m going through. I am dealing with the trauma of being sexually abused by my ex-husband and started having flashbacks about a month ago. It’s been a year since we divorced but I just began to acknowledge that what he did to me was sexual abuse last October. I think I repressed a lot of the memories because they were too painful to confront. I was raped on numerous occasions throughout our relationship but at the time didn’t want to acknowledge that rape could happen between married people. Most of the information I find on sexual abuse is about children who have been abused, which is a horrible thing for any child to have to go through, but I feel alone in that my sexual abuse happened in my adulthood and with the person who said he loved me. I started taking Zoloft recently for depression and PTSD- supposedly Zoloft has been approved to treat PTSD and the anxiety and stress related to it. It seems to be helping and I haven’t had any flashbacks since being on it but I’m getting headaches and feeling fatigued most of the time. Does anyone else taking Zoloft have these side effects? Just curious. Thanks for reading! Amy
Amy, Welcome to the ng. You experiences are not uncommon and although many of us may have experienced differing traumas – the way we react, the symptoms of PTSD are usually extremely similar. It is good that you are getting help now. The sooner people are treated after the trauma, the chance that the severity of your symptoms can be lessened. Keep it up – therapy and medications are our most useful tools right now. Medications are often a trial and error process too. Side effects such as headaches and fatigue may lessen with time. Most SSRIs like Zoloft need 6 to 8 weeks to become fully effective. If side effects are still present and hard to deal with after 2-3 months, it might be an idea to try another one. Effexor has also been found to be effective against PTSD. I’ve taken Prozac, Effexor and am now on Wellbutrin and find they all help to differing degrees. I changed from Prozac to Effexor because of persistant headaches, then changed to Wellbutrin because of I couldn’t control my weight on the other two. It takes time but the end result is worth it. There are some good websites with alot of information on PTSD and medications: http://www.trauma-pages.com/index.phtml http://www.ptsd.com/ http://www.mentalhealth.com/ Feel free to ask any questions and take care! Lesleyanne Visit my homepage at http://home.thezone.net/~chech * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!
Hi Lesleyanne, Thanks for replying to my post. So how does PTSD affect you? For me, the flashbacks can be brief recollections or I can actually feel like the trauma is reoccurring- kind of a suspension of reality if you know what I mean. I also deal with this low-level ongoing sense of anxiety. So it actually helps to deal with the trauma sooner rather than waiting? Sometimes I wonder if it’s worth pursuing the trauma- if one can actually reach some kind of resolve. I’m hoping so. Thanks for the info on the medications. It helps. Take Care, Amy
Amy, It is important to deal with the trauma in your therapy. You need to understand how your condition has progressed from the trauma to your current symptoms. It helps your mind come to terms with how it has affected you. A good therapist can help with this while medication helps the symptoms. Dealing with the trauma as quickly as possible after the trauma has ended is key – you can see how this idea is practiced after the school shootings in the states where counsellors are brought in immediately and the students are encouraged to talk about their feelings. In such cases, followups are imperative so as to intervene if symptoms begin to show. If this had happened for me I have no doubt that I would be in much better shape. I even saw a psychiatrist after I returned from Bosnia in 94, but he treated me as if I was a trouble maker and indicated that if I didn’t stop, my career would be in jeopardy. This was all too common practice in the canadian forces up to recently when they initiated a host of programs to prevent and treat PTSD in veterans. Too late for me and alot of other people….which is what forced them to act. Right now, most of my symptoms are kept in check with medication – wellbutrin and imovane (for sleep). I don’t work and am waiting for my release from the armed forces. That in itself I believe will be a great relief for me. I can’t wait. Take Care Lesleyanne Visit my homepage at http://home.thezone.net/~chech * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!
On 04 Mar 2000 22:26:26 GMT, swissc…@aol.com (SwissChsy) wrote: Hi Amy,
Most of the information I find on sexual abuse is about children who have been abused, which is a horrible thing for any child to have to go through, but I feel alone in that my sexual abuse happened in my adulthood and with the person who said he loved me.
People here have PTSD from many different types of traumas, but I think that quite often folks can still relate to each other, because they have been through some very difficult experiences or are living with the symptoms of PTSD. You might be able to find some articles, resources, etc, out there however, which do address your own trauma more specifically. I would try looking around on some of the PTSD-related websites out there, including: http://www.trauma-pages.com/index.phtml I hope that helps. Perhaps it might also be worthwhile finding out if there are any active groups/organisations in the area for women who have been through an abusive relationship, as they might be able to offer you support, or to put you in touch with other women who have survived a similar situation…? Just a thought anyway. Either way, welcome to the newsgroup. :^) Mae Tang (replace "nospam" with "nu-it" for a valid e-mail address) The Scampering Rat Page http://www.nu-it.demon.co.uk/scamp/
Hi Amy, I just wanted to let you know that you aren’t alone…. I too was sexually (physically and mentally) abused by my ex. as an adult. When you wrote "with the person who said he loved me" it really hit home for me. I believe my ex really thought he loved me… but his idea or definition of love is a hell of a lot different then mine. It makes me so angry when I hear people deny that rape occurs between husband and wife, I am not referring to your self denial that events happened to you… that I understand, but rape is rape no matter how the rapist is related to the victim. I hope you improve with your side affects from the medication and I wish you the best, Patricia. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
I haven’t posted here before- I’m hoping to find someone here who understands what I’m going through. I am dealing with the trauma of being sexually abused by my ex-husband and started having flashbacks about a month ago. It’s been a year since we divorced but I just began to acknowledge that what he did to me was sexual abuse last October. I think I repressed a lot of the memories because they were too painful to confront. I was raped on numerous occasions throughout our relationship but at the time didn’t want to acknowledge that rape could happen between married people. Most of the information I find on sexual abuse is about children who have been abused, which is a horrible thing for any child to have to go through, but I feel alone in that my sexual abuse happened in my adulthood and with the person who said he loved me. I started taking Zoloft recently for depression and PTSD- supposedly Zoloft has been approved to treat PTSD and the anxiety and stress related to it. It seems to be helping and I haven’t had any flashbacks since being on it but I’m getting headaches and feeling fatigued most of the time. Does anyone else taking Zoloft have these side effects? Just curious. Thanks for reading! Amy
___________________________________________________________________________ ___ Total Internet privacy — get your Freedom pseudonym at http://www.freedom.net
Amy, everyone, I am sorry for the offensive language in my previous message. This is the first time my anger got the better of me and I should have waited until I cooled down a bit. It won’t happen again. Patricia. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -
Hi Everyone, I haven’t posted here before- I’m hoping to find someone here who understands what I’m going through. I am dealing with the trauma of being sexually abused by my ex-husband and started having flashbacks about a month ago. It’s been a year since we divorced but I just began to acknowledge that what he did to me was sexual abuse last October. I think I repressed a lot of the memories because they were too painful to confront. I was raped on numerous occasions throughout our relationship but at the time didn’t want to acknowledge that rape could happen between married people. Most of the information I find on sexual abuse is about children who have been abused, which is a horrible thing for any child to have to go through, but I feel alone in that my sexual abuse happened in my adulthood and with the person who said he loved me. I started taking Zoloft recently for depression and PTSD- supposedly Zoloft has been approved to treat PTSD and the anxiety and stress related to it. It seems to be helping and I haven’t had any flashbacks since being on it but I’m getting headaches and feeling fatigued most of the time. Does anyone else taking Zoloft have these side effects? Just curious. Thanks for reading! Amy
___________________________________________________________________________ ___ Total Internet privacy — get your Freedom pseudonym at http://www.freedom.net
Amy Your post was in no way offensive. Actually I believe some swearing when you want to vent is not out of the rhelm of the reasonable. For some reason, some of these words help relieve some of the tension. For my part, I started swearing in French after 4 years in Quebec, so when I returned to an english environment I could swear all I wanted and no one had a clue what I was saying – but it felt just as good. Lesleyanne Visit my homepage at http://home.thezone.net/~chech * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!
Hi Lesleyanne, Actually Patricia was the one who wrote the e-mail she apologized for. I agree with you- I wasn’t offended by what she said- anger is a normal response to being abused, if anger comes out, so be it. Letting it out helps to heal, keeping it in eats away at a person. Thanks, Amy
oops, sorry…..i’ve been having brain farts all week. I still think it’s Friday. Tabernaque!!! Lesleyanne Visit my homepage at http://home.thezone.net/~chech * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!
Hi, There is no physical test (blood, etc.) that can determine if you have OCD. The only way is to describe your symptoms and feelings to the pdoc. You may want to schedule a normal exam with your regular doctor to rule out any other physical problems. That would be up to you. A Zoloft/Xanax combination would be a good first choice for someone with OCD or OCD like tendencies. Why do you think you may have OCD? The symptoms you describe below could be OCD, or they might be a lot of other things. Are your thoughts consistently about "bad" things that may happen, or are they "going over" everyday events and worries? Do you repeat the same thought over and over or do you think about a lot of different things? Do you have any physical compulsions like checking and rechecking things, or hoarding things? I’m kind of interested in this sort of stuff, because I have OC tendencies a lot of times, but I don’t believe I have OCD. I believe I may have a personality disorder that is kind of similar to OCD but is not the same. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have what i though was anxiety attacks. as i have read up on things it appears i have many similarities with OCD. i have been going to a phsychiatrist but he wasn’t really the one for me. he imediatly put me on Zoloft, with out any tests or checkups. I have reaccurring thoughts about everything. i just can’t seem to "get over things". i constantly concentrate on physical flaws i feel i have. i think the biggest problem is dealing with things. i can’t seem to think clearly or objectively. my thoughts are constantly crowded with the same thoughts over and over. the phsychiatrist also gave me xanax, which helps alot, but i have heard bad things about the drug like depression and dependance. can someone please give me some insight. anything would be good right now. — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.
I have what i though was anxiety attacks. as i have read up on things it appears i have many similarities with OCD. i have been going to a phsychiatrist but he wasn’t really the one for me.
Find another pdoc if you aren`t happy with this one. Only a pdoc can diagnosis you. OCD is a anxiety disorder, and you can have panic disorder and OCD at the same time, that is why you need to see a new doctor and get diagnosed. he imediatly put me on Zoloft, with out any tests or checkups.
A pdoc is not going to test you or do a checkup on you. He will diagnosis you by what you tell him. It is always a good idea to go to a medical doctor for a complete physical and to make sure there is no physical reason for your symptoms. A Pdoc will not do this for you. Zoloft can be quite effective for anxiety and OCD. It does take 6 to 8 weeks to become effective though. I have reaccurring thoughts about everything. i just can’t seem to "get over things". i constantly concentrate on physical flaws i feel i have. i think the biggest problem is dealing with things. i can’t seem to think clearly or objectively. my thoughts are constantly crowded with the same thoughts over and over. the phsychiatrist also gave me xanax, which helps alot, but i have heard bad things about the drug like depression and dependance. can someone please give me some insight. anything would be good right now.
It is good to take the Xanax while weaning on the Zoloft. I haven`t seen many people here complain of depression while on Xanax, and if that were to happen there are other benzo`s you can take. You will become dependent on the Zoloft as well as the Xanax, and all that means is you will have to stop the meds slowly when the time comes. Many meds cause a physical dependency and this shouldn`t be confused with *addiction*. If you use the Xanax as prescribed by your doctor you will not get addicted to it. Take care!!!! Jackie
I have what i though was anxiety attacks. as i have read up on things it appears i have many similarities with OCD. i have been going to a phsychiatrist but he wasn’t really the one for me. he imediatly put me on Zoloft, with out any tests or checkups. I have reaccurring thoughts about everything. i just can’t seem to "get over things". i constantly concentrate on physical flaws i feel i have. i think the biggest problem is dealing with things. i can’t seem to think clearly or objectively. my thoughts are constantly crowded with the same thoughts over and over. the phsychiatrist also gave me xanax, which helps alot, but i have heard bad things about the drug like depression and dependance. can someone please give me some insight. anything would be good right now. — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I have what i though was anxiety attacks. as i have read up on things it appears i have many similarities with OCD. i have been going to a phsychiatrist but he wasn’t really the one for me. he imediatly put me on Zoloft, with out any tests or checkups. I have reaccurring thoughts about everything. i just can’t seem to "get over things". i constantly concentrate on physical flaws i feel i have. i think the biggest problem is dealing with things. i can’t seem to think clearly or objectively. my thoughts are constantly crowded with the same thoughts over and over. the phsychiatrist also gave me xanax, which helps alot, but i have heard bad things about the drug like depression and dependance. can someone please give me some insight. anything would be good right now. — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.
Hi, How long have you been on the zoloft? I’m pretty sure that SSRI’s are standard treatment for OCD as well as anxiety. I think luvox is used frequently for OCD. Sometimes it takes weeks for an AD to kick in. I don’t think I have OCD, but being on an SSRI has eliminated 99% of my worries, and ruminations. Haven’t heard of too many people here depressed from xanax. It didn’t affect me that way. If you are worried about dependence on xanax, there are ways to taper off of it. If your still having the recurring thoughts/anxiety while on zoloft after 8 weeks, it might not be the correct med for you. Maria
OCD is an anxiety disorder. Panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, generalized anxiety disorder are all ANXIETY DISORDERS.
Hi Sophie, When I went on Zoloft for the first time, two years ago, I didn’t have any side-effects at all!! I had another doctor at that time. Now, the new doctor gave me the 50mg. I told her I remembered starting with a lower dose last time, but she said, no, 50 mg are the normal starting dose.
To bad we couldn`t make her take 50mgs of Zoloft and see if she likes it<EG!! Since my memory is generally very bad these days, I didn’t want to insist. Later, when the side-effects got so bad, I asked her again if I shouldn’t have started with a lower dose… she said no again.
I hate hearing this!! So many people are afraid to take anti-depressants because of bad experiences like this. You should have started at 12.5mgs or 25mgs, and weaned slowly. I also asked her if I couldn’t go up to the 100 mg a little slower then just doubling the dose. She said that wouldn’t have any effect at all. –
Well, the other day I went through my drawers and discovered a lonely left-over Zoloft tablet from two years ago, 25mg… Well, this teaches me to trust my own mind, however impaired it may be through depression and AD.. and not to believe everything my doc tells me. Thanks for your information!
Your welcome. I feel bad that you had to go through something like this. I am glad you realize that the fault lays with your doctor and not the Zoloft. Take care and good luck. Jackie "Am I right side up or upside down? Is this real or am I dreaming?"
Hi Jackie, When I went on Zoloft for the first time, two years ago, I didn’t have any side-effects at all!! I had another doctor at that time. Now, the new doctor gave me the 50mg.
Is she a GP or a psychiatrist? I told her I remembered starting with a lower dose last time, but she said, no, 50 mg are the normal starting dose.
12,5 mgs sounds more like it. Since my memory is generally very bad these days, I didn’t want to insist. Later, when the side-effects got so bad, I asked her again if I shouldn’t have started with a lower dose… she said no again.
Sweet, caring doc you have there…. I also asked her if I couldn’t go up to the 100 mg a little slower then just doubling the dose. She said that wouldn’t have any effect at all. –
Good grief….she doesn’t know the first thing about oanic and medication. Well, the other day I went through my drawers and discovered a lonely left-over Zoloft tablet from two years ago, 25mg… Well, this teaches me to trust my own mind, however impaired it may be through depression and AD.. and not to believe everything my doc tells me. Thanks for your information!
Sack the doc! Sophie
Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Sophie, You don`t have to go right to 100mgs….you could wean slowly to that dose, that is up to you though. You could go to 75mgs, or even 62.5mgs by cutting the tablet, you would stay at that dose for a week then either increase in 25mg increments, or 12.5mg increments until you reached the 100mgs. For many people a slow weaning process helps to minimize the side-effects. Alot of the side-effects you describe are normal, even the increase in anxiety, perhaps you didn`t wean to 50mgs, you just started at 50mgs? That could explain the hard time you had. Increase in anxiety can be helped by getting a script for a benzo, nausea can be helped by taking the Zoloft on a full stomach. Insomnia can be helped by taking the Zoloft in the AM. Fatigue should dissipate over time. Good luck. Jackie Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.
Hi Jackie, When I went on Zoloft for the first time, two years ago, I didn’t have any side-effects at all!! I had another doctor at that time. Now, the new doctor gave me the 50mg. I told her I remembered starting with a lower dose last time, but she said, no, 50 mg are the normal starting dose. Since my memory is generally very bad these days, I didn’t want to insist. Later, when the side-effects got so bad, I asked her again if I shouldn’t have started with a lower dose… she said no again. I also asked her if I couldn’t go up to the 100 mg a little slower then just doubling the dose. She said that wouldn’t have any effect at all. – Well, the other day I went through my drawers and discovered a lonely left-over Zoloft tablet from two years ago, 25mg… Well, this teaches me to trust my own mind, however impaired it may be through depression and AD.. and not to believe everything my doc tells me. Thanks for your information! Sophie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Sophie, You don`t have to go right to 100mgs….you could wean slowly to that dose, that is up to you though. You could go to 75mgs, or even 62.5mgs by cutting the tablet, you would stay at that dose for a week then either increase in 25mg increments, or 12.5mg increments until you reached the 100mgs. For many people a slow weaning process helps to minimize the side-effects. Alot of the side-effects you describe are normal, even the increase in anxiety, perhaps you didn`t wean to 50mgs, you just started at 50mgs? That could explain the hard time you had. Increase in anxiety can be helped by getting a script for a benzo, nausea can be helped by taking the Zoloft on a full stomach. Insomnia can be helped by taking the Zoloft in the AM. Fatigue should dissipate over time. Good luck. Jackie
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writes – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi all, I have a question about Zoloft and Valerian. I just moved, I left my boyfriend of 4 years and moved in with two roommates. They are absolutely sweet and all the changes in my life are for the better, but still I find my anxiety skyrocketing!! It is as bad a I never thought it would be… I am on 50 mg of Zoloft and I don’t really want to increase the dose (I don’t even know if it would help at all, since it works mainly against depression, not the anxiety itself, if I understand this correctly?), so I thought I’d try some Valerian to get me through the day and help me sleep. Do any of you have any information on SSRIs and Valerian? I seem to recall somebody saying one shouldn’t mix them… but on the other hand I always thought Valerian is a relatively harmless herb… some feedback would be greatly appreciated, Sophie Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.
I tried Valerian some time ago, and I can’t say that I was very impressed personally. If you use the herb form to make an infusion, it makes your kitchen smell like something died in there, and of course it gives you no way of knowing what kind of dose you are taking. I also tried the tablet form, and found that it made me feel like hell the next day. As always, YMMV . — Jon Guite When replying by email, please remove the trailing x from my return address
Thanks for your kind replies….. actually, it is a side-effect problem. When I started on Zoloft I was sick for over a week – not only did my anxiety increase, but I was tired at the same time, insomnia and most of all nausea.. I lost quite a bit of weight, which was nice, still I am not too keen on repeating this experience… but what you say sounds convincing, so I think I’ll try the 100 mg. Maybe it’ll work as well for me as for you… thanks again!! Sophie
Hi Sophie, You don`t have to go right to 100mgs….you could wean slowly to that dose, that is up to you though. You could go to 75mgs, or even 62.5mgs by cutting the tablet, you would stay at that dose for a week then either increase in 25mg increments, or 12.5mg increments until you reached the 100mgs. For many people a slow weaning process helps to minimize the side-effects. Alot of the side-effects you describe are normal, even the increase in anxiety, perhaps you didn`t wean to 50mgs, you just started at 50mgs? That could explain the hard time you had. Increase in anxiety can be helped by getting a script for a benzo, nausea can be helped by taking the Zoloft on a full stomach. Insomnia can be helped by taking the Zoloft in the AM. Fatigue should dissipate over time. Good luck. Jackie
I have a question about Zoloft and Valerian. I just moved, I left my boyfriend of 4 years and moved in with two roommates. They are absolutely sweet and all the changes in my life are for the better, but still I find my anxiety skyrocketing!! It is as bad a I never thought it would be… I am on 50 mg of Zoloft and I don’t really want to increase the dose (I don’t even know if it would help at all, since it works mainly against depression, not the anxiety itself, if I understand this correctly?), so I thought I’d try some Valerian to get me through the day and help me sleep. Do any of you have any information on SSRIs and Valerian? I seem to recall somebody saying one shouldn’t mix them… but on the other hand I always thought Valerian is a relatively harmless herb… some feedback would be greatly appreciated,
Hi Sophie, You have had some major life changes recently no wonder you anxiety is still skyrocketing. I am not sure about mixing Zoloft and Valerian, I would call your doctor and ask, many times herbs and meds don`t mix. I think your best bet is to increase the Zoloft, you can go as high as 200mgs, 50mgs might not be enough. Zoloft is effective for anxiety disorders as well as depression. You might be pleasantly surprised at what a increase might do for you. You could also ask your doctor for a benzo for your anxiety, many people take both a AD and a benzo. Take care. Jackie "Am I right side up or upside down? Is this real or am I dreaming?"
Thanks for your kind replies….. actually, it is a side-effect problem. When I started on Zoloft I was sick for over a week – not only did my anxiety increase, but I was tired at the same time, insomnia and most of all nausea.. I lost quite a bit of weight, which was nice, still I am not too keen on repeating this experience… but what you say sounds convincing, so I think I’ll try the 100 mg. Maybe it’ll work as well for me as for you… thanks again!! Sophie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Sophie – Actually, unless you have a particulary side-effect problem, I would highly recommend upping your Zoloft dose…My anxiety was not affected at all at 50 mg, but at 100 mg – it is almost entirely gone! Like night and day…And you can take up to 200 mg/day if it’s needed… It took some time, but it was worth it…Anyway, Zoloft is recommended for panic and anxiety, so give it a try…I think you’d be better off taking one med anyway (not really sure why you don’t want to increase the dose unless it’s a side-effect thing) than mixing meds… Hope this helps…Not sure about Valerian…I took some Kava and it helped a little, but you shouldn’t take it with Xanax (which I also started taking with the Zoloft)…Valerian was also suggested to me as far as herbs…Not sure of any interactions here… Email me anytime if you want…You sound like you are in the same boat as me with a series of life changes leading to terrible anxiety…I am much better with 100 mg Zoloft…I think you could be too… Best, — Charles Phipps
Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.
Hi all, I have a question about Zoloft and Valerian. I just moved, I left my boyfriend of 4 years and moved in with two roommates. They are absolutely sweet and all the changes in my life are for the better, but still I find my anxiety skyrocketing!! It is as bad a I never thought it would be… I am on 50 mg of Zoloft and I don’t really want to increase the dose (I don’t even know if it would help at all, since it works mainly against depression, not the anxiety itself, if I understand this correctly?), so I thought I’d try some Valerian to get me through the day and help me sleep. Do any of you have any information on SSRIs and Valerian? I seem to recall somebody saying one shouldn’t mix them… but on the other hand I always thought Valerian is a relatively harmless herb… some feedback would be greatly appreciated, Sophie Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, I have a question about Zoloft and Valerian. I just moved, I left my boyfriend of 4 years and moved in with two roommates. They are absolutely sweet and all the changes in my life are for the better, but still I find my anxiety skyrocketing!! It is as bad a I never thought it would be… I am on 50 mg of Zoloft and I don’t really want to increase the dose (I don’t even know if it would help at all, since it works mainly against depression, not the anxiety itself, if I understand this correctly?), so I thought I’d try some Valerian to get me through the day and help me sleep. Do any of you have any information on SSRIs and Valerian? I seem to recall somebody saying one shouldn’t mix them… but on the other hand I always thought Valerian is a relatively harmless herb… some feedback would be greatly appreciated, Sophie
Sophie – Actually, unless you have a particulary side-effect problem, I would highly recommend upping your Zoloft dose…My anxiety was not affected at all at 50 mg, but at 100 mg – it is almost entirely gone! Like night and day…And you can take up to 200 mg/day if it’s needed… It took some time, but it was worth it…Anyway, Zoloft is recommended for panic and anxiety, so give it a try…I think you’d be better off taking one med anyway (not really sure why you don’t want to increase the dose unless it’s a side-effect thing) than mixing meds… Hope this helps…Not sure about Valerian…I took some Kava and it helped a little, but you shouldn’t take it with Xanax (which I also started taking with the Zoloft)…Valerian was also suggested to me as far as herbs…Not sure of any interactions here… Email me anytime if you want…You sound like you are in the same boat as me with a series of life changes leading to terrible anxiety…I am much better with 100 mg Zoloft…I think you could be too… Best, — Charles Phipps
Hey, I took 10mg of Valium last night and got a normal night’s sleep! At least I think I did. Slept all the way through, no psycho dreams, no problems whatsoever, just a tiny bit of grogginess this morning. I’m hoping that using a little pharmy assist just for sleep for the next 3 or 4 days will see me all the way through the rest of Effexor withdrawal. I’m hoping that I am *not* just putting it off, but my doc tells me I have no reason to worry about that. Otherwise, some dizziness once up and about, but that is nothing compared to the wild nights of yesteryear. I may be OK now. Whew.
Good, now stop being such a bitch around here and get the stupid block off your email. I’ve missed you. Mary Beth "Real friends let friends drive naked."
Hey, I took 10mg of Valium last night and got a normal night’s sleep! At least I think I did. Slept all the way through, no psycho dreams, no problems whatsoever, just a tiny bit of grogginess this morning. I’m hoping that using a little pharmy assist just for sleep for the next 3 or 4 days will see me all the way through the rest of Effexor withdrawal. I’m hoping that I am *not* just putting it off, but my doc tells me I have no reason to worry about that. Otherwise, some dizziness once up and about, but that is nothing compared to the wild nights of yesteryear. I may be OK now. Whew.
Mark, Glad to hear that you found something to help you get through this. Hopefully, you’ve been through the worst of it. chuck
Hey, I took 10mg of Valium last night and got a normal night’s sleep! At least I think I did. Slept all the way through, no psycho dreams, no problems whatsoever, just a tiny bit of grogginess this morning.
Glad to hear that, Mark. I hope you don’t have to stay on the Valium for more than a few days also. I think I remember you (?) saying something about trying to drink lots of water to help clear out your system. I was also wondering if getting out for walks and fresh air helps get the Effexor out of one’s system more quickly. (I really don’t know, but it seems like it might.) Btw, I have to tell you about a dream I had about you (nothing like your nightmares, thankfully), but it was kind of funny, and I think you’ll appreciate the humor in it. Dream: I was typing a response to one of your posts, BUT the catch was that I was totally blind (or blindfolded?) and had to spend hours replacing my hands on the "base keys" to keep my place. Then, I would forget whether I had backspaced to correct errors (and I remembered thinking…geez this can’t have typos in it!) and, I could never re-read anything I typed. I’m generally a good typist so this was a very frustrating dream. It seemed like it did go on for hours. hehehe… I guess my posts do sometimes too. I was going to tell you about this the next day, but that was the same day that you posted a goodbye to asd message. Weird. Take it easy, Mark. Hopefully you’ll keep posting (and I’ll try not to be too blind in any of my responses) <g Leah