Question:

I know that steroids can wreak havoc on BG.  What I haven’t been able to learn is how long this effect normally lasts.  For example, if one gets a depo medrol injection, does it affect BG levels for hours/days/weeks?  Thanks to anyone who can answer this.

Response:

        If I’m not mistaken it will stay in the system for several weeks or months.  Any steroids I’ve ever taken caused more trouble then it was worth IMHO                                         Pam

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I know that steroids can wreak havoc on BG.  What I haven’t been able to learn is how long this effect normally lasts.  For example, if one gets a depo medrol injection, does it affect BG levels for hours/days/weeks?  Thanks to anyone who can answer this.

Response:

I know that steroids can wreak havoc on BG.  What I haven’t been able to learn is how long this effect normally lasts.  For example, if one gets a depo medrol injection, does it affect BG levels for hours/days/weeks?  Thanks to anyone who can answer this.

I’ve noticed problems with mere inhaled steroids for asthmatic bronchitis. For me the effect is 20-50 mg/dl unexplainable rise in BG that can last up to five hours. That with 2 puffs of 110mcg FloVent and 2 puffs of 0.2mg MaxAir. (See my question – "another medication question" if it ever shows up! The Fates have conspired against me in all my attempts to post that message to this ng.)

Response:

Question:

Those spacers are good. . .but the neatest thing I have seen is a product called MDI Tutor.  It is tiny [barely adds any size to the inhaler] and helps you use your inhaler properly.

Response:

My Aerochamber makes a whistleing sound when I inhale too fast.  Is that what you’re talking about? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Those spacers are good. . .but the neatest thing I have seen is a product called MDI Tutor.  It is tiny [barely adds any size to the inhaler] and helps you use your inhaler properly.

Response:

Please email your mailing address.  I will send you a complete package of information on what has finally given me drug free relief after thirty years of suffering!!!

Response:

I can’t imagine taking inhalers anymore without the Aerochamber.  It cuts out that hoarse throat, and just all around seems to be more efficient at getting the medicine where its supposed to go.  Before it would land on my upper pallette (sp?) and leave a spot of medicine there.  Now I don’t have to pay so much attention to how I’m taking it except for expelling my breath before. Sue M.

I agree with you … Aerochambers are great. There’s a really good one out there called an OptiHaler, made by Healthscan Products. I don’t know if you’ve tried it but I personally like to use it a little better than those clear AeroChamber ones. The OptiHaler is more compact so it’s easier to carry around, and I like how it functions. You can store your medication inside it, too. It’s hard to find though at the pharmacies.                                              http://www.europa.com/~bjknotts/

Response:

I can’t imagine taking inhalers anymore without the Aerochamber.  It cuts out that hoarse throat, and just all around seems to be more efficient at getting the medicine where its supposed to go.  Before it would land on my upper pallette (sp?) and leave a spot of medicine there.  Now I don’t have to pay so much attention to how I’m taking it except for expelling my breath before. Sue M.

Response:

What is an aerochamber? Kathy Anderson fellow-sufferer

Response:

What is an aerochamber? Kathy Anderson fellow-sufferer

See the alt.support.asthma FAQ – I wrote a bit on Aerochambers in the FAQ. Briefly, it is a holding chamber that makes inhalers easier and more efficient to use: you spray your medication into it and then inhale the medication from it, at your own comfortable rate. Certainly worth having, since the inhalation speed required for matching the inhaler’s spray speed is difficult for many to achieve (especially during a flare), and since, without one, those who take inhaled steroids are more likely to get thrush. — Mark Feblowitz,   GTE Laboratories Inc., 40 Sylvan Rd.  Waltham, MA 02254

Response:

 When I posted my first note about a month ago I got a lot of wonderful advice from people and many asked for an update after I saw the doctor. Here it is!  I went to the doctor today and by the time I left I was so elated! What a relief to finally get professional help, I feel so relaxed. He put me on Methylprednisolone tabs for 6 days and I also have Flovent and Serevent that I take two puffs of twice a day. I got Albuterol for when/if I have any problems. He also gave me an AeroChamber and a peak flow meter. Now I’m cooking with gas!  :)  Thanks for all the concern. Tammy

Response:

Question:

Thanks to all who replied to my question about Advair. We were very careful to keep the Flovent the same level (she used the Flovent inhaler in addition to the Advair to keep it equal) and she switched from a Serevent diskus, so all things should have been the same. However, I left the choice to her, and she decided to go back to the Serevent diskus and Flovent MDI. She hasn’t been having any problem since. I guess it’s a case of "different strokes for different folks." sue — Susan Hartman/Dirty Linen The Magazine of Folk and World Music http://www.dirtylinen.com

Response:

Does Advair have the same compounds as Pulmicort. Check with your doctor. Lane – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello. I’ve read lots of posts about Advair and seen that most people like it. But I’m still slightly concerned. My 13-y.o. daughter has severe asthma and takes Accolate, Serevent, Flovent, and Zyrtec. She’s been well controlled over the summer. In the past she has tried Pulmicort Turbohaler and had disastrous results. She couldn’t sleep at night, couldn’t wake in the morning, and had awful nightmares and almost "psychotic" dreams/nighttime episodes. This occured between 1-3 weeks after starting Pulmicort, and when we made the connection we put her back on Flovent and she was fine. (And this has happened twice, at 18-mo intervals). Well, she just started Advair about a week and a half ago and is starting to have trouble sleeping and waking. This morning she mentioned that she thinks it might be similar to the Pulmicort experience. But since it’s just the first couple of weeks of school, it’s hard to say whether it’s Advair-related or normal teen adjustment to a daytime schedule! Though she did also just yesterday have her first asthma flare in a long while – several weeks at least (used the neb for the first time since the beginning of summer). So my question is, has anyone had similar problems with Pulmicort Turbohaler, and what is the experience of those "sensitive" people to Advair? Is there something related to the delivery method? Or was the Pulmicort/Flovent difference related to the drug involved? I should also mention that’s she’s one of those unfortunate people who responds "over the top" to prednisone…every bad side effect known to woman! Munchies, water retention, screaming meanies, etc. Thanks for any light you can shed. Sue — Susan Hartman/Dirty Linen The Magazine of Folk and World Music http://www.dirtylinen.com

Response:

Her reaction to Advair shouldn’t be any different than her reaction to Flovent and Serevent since Advair is the combination of the 2 drugs in a more convenient form. What dose is she on? And did she increase her dose? For example if she was on Flovent 220 is her Advair 250/50? Or higher?

Response:

Well, she just started Advair about a week and a half ago and is starting to have trouble sleeping and waking. This morning she mentioned that she thinks it might be similar to the Pulmicort experience.

It may be an issue of dose. It is possible that her technique with the MDI is not optimal so what the doctor thinks is an equivalent dose of the dry powder inhalers is actually an increase. Advair comes in three different strengths so it may be possible to reduce her dose safely. — CBI, MD

Response:

I took Advair for about six weeks and finally decided to take a break inasmuch as my nasal passges have been very sore deuring that time.  I don’t know if there’s a connection, thus the break to see what happens.  If it clears up then reappears when I resume the Advair, then I’ve resolved the problem.  I did find that the NIH resume was most helpful … I don’t have it in front of me, but loss of sleep might’ve been one of the side effects. Hope this helps … Al Fisher

Response:

Hello. I’ve read lots of posts about Advair and seen that most people like it. But I’m still slightly concerned.

I loved Advair.  I was down to one puff a day, and was off my ventolin inhalers completely.  <I am one ofthose people who has cats, sleeps with them – and is allergic However, I also had a concern – I began having heart palpitaitons.  I checked the web for side effects, asked the doctor – and my concerns were dismissed.  I ended up in the hospital with Ventricular Tachycardia (VT). Normally a very healthy (other than the asthma) adult who hikes, bikes and climbs stairs, my energy level was dropping off the bottom. I have since read that the Advair guys had done some tests on VT and Advair, but I don’t know what the results were.  Why would they do the tests if there was no concern?  If you do develop VT from using Advair – does it disappear after you stop using it? Does anyone have any anecdotal evidence on this? Connie

Response:

I found on a switch from Aerobid to Flovent, that the switch itself caused me to be extremely sensitive for about 3 weeks. It wasn’t that the new drug didn’t work, I think it was that the old one quit before the new one built up. Time may help? LA – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello. I’ve read lots of posts about Advair and seen that most people like it. But I’m still slightly concerned. My 13-y.o. daughter has severe asthma and takes Accolate, Serevent, Flovent, and Zyrtec. She’s been well controlled over the summer. In the past she has tried Pulmicort Turbohaler and had disastrous results. She couldn’t sleep at night, couldn’t wake in the morning, and had awful nightmares and almost "psychotic" dreams/nighttime episodes. This occured between 1-3 weeks after starting Pulmicort, and when we made the connection we put her back on Flovent and she was fine. (And this has happened twice, at 18-mo intervals). Well, she just started Advair about a week and a half ago and is starting to have trouble sleeping and waking. This morning she mentioned that she thinks it might be similar to the Pulmicort experience. But since it’s just the first couple of weeks of school, it’s hard to say whether it’s Advair-related or normal teen adjustment to a daytime schedule! Though she did also just yesterday have her first asthma flare in a long while – several weeks at least (used the neb for the first time since the beginning of summer). So my question is, has anyone had similar problems with Pulmicort Turbohaler, and what is the experience of those "sensitive" people to Advair? Is there something related to the delivery method? Or was the Pulmicort/Flovent difference related to the drug involved? I should also mention that’s she’s one of those unfortunate people who responds "over the top" to prednisone…every bad side effect known to woman! Munchies, water retention, screaming meanies, etc. Thanks for any light you can shed. Sue — Susan Hartman/Dirty Linen The Magazine of Folk and World Music http://www.dirtylinen.com

Response:

Hello. I’ve read lots of posts about Advair and seen that most people like it. But I’m still slightly concerned. My 13-y.o. daughter has severe asthma and takes Accolate, Serevent, Flovent, and Zyrtec. She’s been well controlled over the summer. In the past she has tried Pulmicort Turbohaler and had disastrous results. She couldn’t sleep at night, couldn’t wake in the morning, and had awful nightmares and almost "psychotic" dreams/nighttime episodes. This occured between 1-3 weeks after starting Pulmicort, and when we made the connection we put her back on Flovent and she was fine. (And this has happened twice, at 18-mo intervals). Well, she just started Advair about a week and a half ago and is starting to have trouble sleeping and waking. This morning she mentioned that she thinks it might be similar to the Pulmicort experience. But since it’s just the first couple of weeks of school, it’s hard to say whether it’s Advair-related or normal teen adjustment to a daytime schedule! Though she did also just yesterday have her first asthma flare in a long while – several weeks at least (used the neb for the first time since the beginning of summer). So my question is, has anyone had similar problems with Pulmicort Turbohaler, and what is the experience of those "sensitive" people to Advair? Is there something related to the delivery method? Or was the Pulmicort/Flovent difference related to the drug involved? I should also mention that’s she’s one of those unfortunate people who responds "over the top" to prednisone…every bad side effect known to woman! Munchies, water retention, screaming meanies, etc. Thanks for any light you can shed. Sue — Susan Hartman/Dirty Linen The Magazine of Folk and World Music http://www.dirtylinen.com

Response:

Question:

I’ve had bruising and tearing of skin far too easily – even kneading bread in a bowl will cause small hemmorhages where the arms rub! I take Flovent, Serevent and Accolate – now after 3 weeks of 500mg vit. C BID, I think there is some small improvement.  Plan to increase dosage gradually and see if the effect is enhanced.  Will post more – eventually! Jan

Response:

 I have begun to notice a few things that are causing me to be a little nervous.  I am brusing very easily.  I am developing a lot of spider veins in my legs.  I have a cluster of viens on top of the shen bone on my lower leg and I have a vein that has kind of popped out about 4 inches below my knee on that same leg.  I am seeing my Dr. tomorrow, he always tells me flowvent doesn’t get into my system and not to worry about any thing.  Do these symptoms sound like I should be concerned?  I feel great and would hate to give up my flowvent, but I wonder if I wouldn’t be just fine with a smaller dose.  

What does the insert that came with your medication say about side effects and adverse reactions?  There should be a phone number for the manufactuer in the insert, maybe you should call and ask them directly? ‘Reply to’ address changed to foil email spammers.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am currently taking flovent 220, 2 sprays in morning and 2 in the evening. I originally started out taking 4 sprays in am and pm,back in Nov 96. My Dr. slowly reduced me to my current dosage last March.   This has been a miricle drug for me.  The first relief from asthma attacks in over 10 years.  In fact I have not had an attack since the second week of Nov 96, they used to be a daily occurance.   I have begun to notice a few things that are causing me to be a little nervous.  I am brusing very easily.  I am developing a lot of spider veins in my legs.  I have a cluster of viens on top of the shen bone on my lower leg and I have a vein that has kind of popped out about 4 inches below my knee on that same leg.   I am seeing my Dr. tomorrow, he always tells me flowvent doesn’t get into my system and not to worry about any thing.   Do these symptoms sound like I should be concerned?  I feel great and would hate to give up my flowvent, but I wonder if I wouldn’t be just fine with a smaller dose.                          Barbara

You are taking a High Dose of Flovent (880 ug fluticasone/day), per the Expert Panel Report 2. A Low Dose is 88-264 ug/day, a Medium Dose is 264-660 ug/day, a High Dose is 660 ug/day.  The High Dose is prescribed for Severe Asthma. Also recommended in addition to the steroid inhaler is a long-acting bronchodilator; a Serevent inhaler or theophylline SR (Theo-Dur) These tend to be steroid sparing drugs. Other steroid sparing drugs new on the market are Accolate & Zyflo. Then you should have a short-acting bronchodilator like albuterol for rescue. It’s possible you are having the steroid side effect which results in thin delicate skin. It is best to use the minimum dose of steroid to control the symptoms, especially at the medium & high doses. A peak flow meter can be used to help assess the lung function; you want to stay in the green zone, 80% of personal best. Then an Action Plan should be used to increasemeds including steroid inhaler, in the event of an asthma exacerbation.

It may prove easier to taper down if you switch your Flovent to the medium strength inhaler (Flovent 110) Perhaps you could then try 3 puffs twice a day (with doctor’s approval of course). To minimize side effects make sure to use a spacer, like an AeroChamber, with the Flovent. Wash mouth & gargle after inhaling. Then get Serevent or Theo-Dur if you don’t already have it; & a albuterol inhaler for rescue. A book that explains this is ‘The Asthma Sourcebook’, Francis Adams, MD, c96. http://home.earthlink.net/~francisva/news.html Ellis

Response:

Question:

Hello Jeff, Seroxat and Paxil are two names for the same drug. The name Seroxat is used in the UK and Paxil, I believe, is what it’s called in the US. Sorry about the confusion. Before the cross posters arrived, quite suddenly it appeared, this was a great group. I started posting on 13th of December last and found that the group helped me greatly over the overwhelmingly miserable period during Christmas and the New Year. What I’m leading up to is that reading the post here and better still posting messages is highly therapeutic and is what I would recommend that you do but sadly the group no longer functions the way it did. Cormac’s suggestion is a good one if you can find a support group. I’m certain there are many such groups in the US but a lot depends on the nature of the support group and the particular way you interact with such a group. We are all different and I can go to a support group here in Dublin but I’m not at all happy with the way it’s run. The fella who set up the group effectively controls the group and I object strongly to this but am afraid to say anything to the psychologist in the hospital where the support group is based about the situation as I see it. The fella who runs the support group and the psychologist are great friends and if I said anything I can almost hear the psychologist ask me now why do I feel this way and I’m sure I would get nowhere and end up banging my head off the wall. Be wary in support groups. You will meet all types and I know from personal experience you may meet folks there who will use you if the conditions are right for that. That is exactly what happened to me. A long time member of the group homed in on me and ended up bullying me in a most insidious way. So, Jeff, beware in the support group setting. As the student who was treating me using CBT told me as she told me I could join the support I would meet all types in the support group. I thought what a strange thing to say. Are we not all on each other’s side I asked myself. The frightening answer is no. Peter Nolan. To email please remove x from xpeter…@gofree.indigo.ie

Response:

Hello Jeff, I’m attempting to send the message below a second time. It never made it first time round. — Peter Nolan. To email please remove x from xpeter…@gofree.indigo.ie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hello Jeff, Seroxat and Paxil are two names for the same drug. The name Seroxat is

used

in the UK and Paxil, I believe, is what it’s called in the US. Sorry about the confusion. Before the cross posters arrived, quite suddenly it appeared, this was a great group. I started posting on 13th of December last and found that the group helped me greatly over the overwhelmingly miserable period during Christmas and the New Year. What I’m leading up to is that reading the

post

here and better still posting messages is highly therapeutic and is what I would recommend that you do but sadly the group no longer functions the

way

it did. Cormac’s suggestion is a good one if you can find a support group. I’m certain there are many such groups in the US but a lot depends on the

nature

of the support group and the particular way you interact with such a

group.

We are all different and I can go to a support group here in Dublin but

I’m

not at all happy with the way it’s run. The fella who set up the group effectively controls the group and I object strongly to this but am afraid to say anything to the psychologist in the hospital where the support

group

is based about the situation as I see it. The fella who runs the support group and the psychologist are great friends and if I said anything I can almost hear the psychologist ask me now why do I feel this way and I’m

sure

I would get nowhere and end up banging my head off the wall. Be wary in support groups. You will meet all types and I know from

personal

experience you may meet folks there who will use you if the conditions are right for that. That is exactly what happened to me. A long time member of the group homed in on me and ended up bullying me in a most insidious way. So, Jeff, beware in the support group setting. As the student who was treating me using CBT told me as she told me I could join the support I would meet all types in the support group. I thought what a strange thing

to

say. Are we not all on each other’s side I asked myself. The frightening answer is no. Peter Nolan. To email please remove x from xpeter…@gofree.indigo.ie

Response:

Check the website  www.socialanxietyinstitute.org I find it extremly helpful. Consider joining a support group – mentioned in the web site. Jeff <jeff9…@hotmail.com

wrote in message

news:7eb49709.0204152150.287da20e@posting.google.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I’m not sure anyone will see this or respond, but at minimum this posting will let me organize my thoughts and try to explain my situation. I’m male, 31 years old, and have lived with debilitating social anxiety for as long as I can remember, long before there were slick TV commercials for marginally effective pharmaceuticals to treat the disorder. I saw my first psychiatrist when I was 18, who told me I was a nice guy and would have a great life, just stop worrying so much.  By the time I was 24 I finally worked up the courage to talk to a doctor about my depression and social anxiety, and went through the usual suspects with less than impressive results: Zoloft, Serzone, Effexor, Moclobemide.  Then I contracted mono (great, what were the chances of that for a 27 year old virgin).  That completely knocked me out for several months.  Through my doctor, I finally got a referral to a good psychiatrist who diagnosed me with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.  He put me on Parnate and Klonopin, and I was pleasantly surprised, because I actually felt better than I’d ever felt in my entire life.  I looked forward to my day… the pounding heart and sweaty palms went away, I didn’t think everyone was staring at me, and I could go out to social functions without getting incredibly nervous. The dietary restrictions for Parnate were a minor inconvenience. So were the sleep disturbances/minor insomnia.  My life became almost normal.  I went out with friends.  I know, I know, you aren’t supposed to feel better just from meds… it takes lots of CBT and hard work.  My experience, even with good therapists says that is not true.  I’ve read the books, and understand all the distortions and negative thought patterns that pass through my mind.  But being aware of them, and being able to get them under control are two separate things.  I just have this brain chemistry that kicks in so strongly that the power of thought is not enough. One year later, after relocating to the US, I mentioned the insomnia to my doctor and she said it was caused by depression, and tripled the dose of Parnate, and also suggested ECT, which I declined.  I didn’t sleep properly for days, and got extremely sick with a bacterial infection, probably because I was so tired and my immune system went on a vacation.  It scared me so much that I took myself off Parnate and Klonopin (tapered) without consulting my doctor, who I no longer trusted. This was the worst decision of my life (and I’ve made a lot of bad decisions).  After a few weeks, I quickly realized my error after I started returning to my old ways of hiding out in my apartment avoiding everyone.  Since then, I’ve been dragged through unsuccessful courses of Prozac, Effexor (yuck) and Wellbutrin (double yuck).  I can tolerate side effects, but generally expect to feel better rather than worse.  That all ended about two years ago, when I gave up on meds and doctors who have a kneejerk reaction of try Paxil… try Effexor… or whatever drug-du-jour is being peddled. So I’ve put myself in a terrible position.  The only thing that ever worked for me was a MAOI, and nobody wants to prescribe that.  Or a scheduled drug like Klonopin.  Probably now I’m profiled as exhibiting drug-seeking behavior.  But that seems odd since I have old unused prescriptions for both of the above sitting in the back of my medicine cabinet, as well as random assortments of various drugs sufficient to kill a horse. So, two years of being med-free, practicing meditation daily, and lots of aerobic exercise have not helped, and I am a complete isolated hopeless nervous mess.  When I went to my doctor last week for a sinus infection, I mentioned that I used to be on Parnate, and she said she couldn’t believe anyone prescribed that anymore, and proceeded to explain how great SSRIs are.  I just shut up, went home and took my antibiotics. I don’t know what to do.  Money is not an issue.  I just want to somehow get out of this mess.  I don’t look forward to anything… I can barely go out to buy groceries.  It really hurts me at work.  I may skip an old friend’s wedding because I don’t think I can handle it.  Not sure what to do.  I think good psychiatrists are hard to find- I can’t imagine anyone wanting to take on a case like mine. It seems like there is really no way out of this.  I’m just so tired of life being a constant struggle with getting nervous talking to anyone… I’m getting way too old for this. I’m not suicidal, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if I were run over by a truck tomorrow.  Yes, touching, I know. If you’ve made it this far, I apologize for my rambling. If you can think of any way to get out of this mess, let me know.  I can’t even think of a first step that isn’t destined for failure. Jeff psychiatrist I feel trapped in my apartment now and need help, but can’t figure out how to proceed.  My last attempt was several

Response:

Thanks Peter, Doug, and kicken for your thoughtful responses. I am going to get in touch with my doctor back in Canada, to see if he can help me out with some sort of letter of introduction. I had been a patient of his for several years, so there’s a good possibility he can help out.  Even the doctor in the US who tripled my dose of Parnate may be able to help out, and at least attest to the fact that I was doing okay.  I’m also going to write/phone local psychiatrists to determine if one of them has experience prescribing Parnate. Failing that, Peter mentioned a Seroxat/Paxil combo that I have not tried before, which sounds like it may be worth a try, though I am skeptical because of lack of success with anything other than a MAOI. The worst part is that the disease itself is a real hindrance to finding treatment, because my behavior is just so avoidant. Also, I always feel that it’s not taken seriously, like any of the more popular/trendy psychological disorders.  After all, I’m no threat to anyone, and I’m not experiencing any specific crisis.  At least now I have some concrete ideas on how to proceed – thanks all for the ideas on how to get out of this rut.   Jeff – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -gd…@aug.com (Doug) wrote in message <news:3cbd5389.2725248@news.aug.com

… Jeff, At this point, it sounds like a plan would be to get back on the Parnate and Klonopin which you said you gave up on.  What are the possibilities of writing the doctor again who originally prescribed the Parnate and the Klonopin?  I believe s/he’s in another country now? so this may be impossible.  If you could and sent your posted letter with your cover letter, you might have a fairly good chance of at least getting a letter of introduction for another doctor.  This may be impractical, but what about trying to see the U.S. doctor who tripled the Parnate dose.  I mean there are at least 2 doctors who weren’t averse to prescribing Parnate and Klonopin for you.   The 2nd doctor could be a definite maybe.  Even if you can’t see this doctor because of distance, could you write a letter to her explaining what you’re going thru and request her to write a letter of introduction "To Whom It May Concern" (some unknown doctor as yet) that explains what you’ve tried, what worked and what her recommendation is. I did this when I relocated to another state in the U.S. several months ago and the introductory letter did help.  I’ve been able to continue taking the same meds, but I’m under a little tighter control right now than I was previously.  That could be changed by seeking out a new shrink or by possibly asking my new family GP if he’d be willing to take over the prescriptions. If none of the above is practical, you can write your own letter of introduction, using most, if not all of what you wrote in this post and make an appt. with a new psychiatrist.  Your post is very explicit so I’d include it too.  Good luck. Doug

Response:

Hi Jeff, I’m also 31 and have social phobia and depression probably my whole life. I’ve been on almost every med and combo and other treatments and Parnate is the only one to give some relief also. I do get frustrated at times about some side-effects and that it might not be working enough, then I go off and see how much worse I get and go back on. I would try finding a Dr. in your area that has experience prescribing MAOI’s. It’s rule of thumb to go back to what has helped in the past. I hope you find a good Dr. willing to give it to you and hope you feel better. I’ve been on and off of Parnate for almost a decade. I hope to get better to all the time. Take care B jeff9…@hotmail.com (Jeff) wrote in message

<news:7eb49709.0204152150.287da20e@posting.google.com

…

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I’m not sure anyone will see this or respond, but at minimum this posting will let me organize my thoughts and try to explain my situation. I’m male, 31 years old, and have lived with debilitating social anxiety for as long as I can remember, long before there were slick TV commercials for marginally effective pharmaceuticals to treat the disorder. I saw my first psychiatrist when I was 18, who told me I was a nice guy and would have a great life, just stop worrying so much.  By the time I was 24 I finally worked up the courage to talk to a doctor about my depression and social anxiety, and went through the usual suspects with less than impressive results: Zoloft, Serzone, Effexor, Moclobemide.  Then I contracted mono (great, what were the chances of that for a 27 year old virgin).  That completely knocked me out for several months.  Through my doctor, I finally got a referral to a good psychiatrist who diagnosed me with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.  He put me on Parnate and Klonopin, and I was pleasantly surprised, because I actually felt better than I’d ever felt in my entire life.  I looked forward to my day… the pounding heart and sweaty palms went away, I didn’t think everyone was staring at me, and I could go out to social functions without getting incredibly nervous. The dietary restrictions for Parnate were a minor inconvenience. So were the sleep disturbances/minor insomnia.  My life became almost normal.  I went out with friends.  I know, I know, you aren’t supposed to feel better just from meds… it takes lots of CBT and hard work.  My experience, even with good therapists says that is not true.  I’ve read the books, and understand all the distortions and negative thought patterns that pass through my mind.  But being aware of them, and being able to get them under control are two separate things.  I just have this brain chemistry that kicks in so strongly that the power of thought is not enough. One year later, after relocating to the US, I mentioned the insomnia to my doctor and she said it was caused by depression, and tripled the dose of Parnate, and also suggested ECT, which I declined.  I didn’t sleep properly for days, and got extremely sick with a bacterial infection, probably because I was so tired and my immune system went on a vacation.  It scared me so much that I took myself off Parnate and Klonopin (tapered) without consulting my doctor, who I no longer trusted. This was the worst decision of my life (and I’ve made a lot of bad decisions).  After a few weeks, I quickly realized my error after I started returning to my old ways of hiding out in my apartment avoiding everyone.  Since then, I’ve been dragged through unsuccessful courses of Prozac, Effexor (yuck) and Wellbutrin (double yuck).  I can tolerate side effects, but generally expect to feel better rather than worse.  That all ended about two years ago, when I gave up on meds and doctors who have a kneejerk reaction of try Paxil… try Effexor… or whatever drug-du-jour is being peddled. So I’ve put myself in a terrible position.  The only thing that ever worked for me was a MAOI, and nobody wants to prescribe that.  Or a scheduled drug like Klonopin.  Probably now I’m profiled as exhibiting drug-seeking behavior.  But that seems odd since I have old unused prescriptions for both of the above sitting in the back of my medicine cabinet, as well as random assortments of various drugs sufficient to kill a horse. So, two years of being med-free, practicing meditation daily, and lots of aerobic exercise have not helped, and I am a complete isolated hopeless nervous mess.  When I went to my doctor last week for a sinus infection, I mentioned that I used to be on Parnate, and she said she couldn’t believe anyone prescribed that anymore, and proceeded to explain how great SSRIs are.  I just shut up, went home and took my antibiotics. I don’t know what to do.  Money is not an issue.  I just want to somehow get out of this mess.  I don’t look forward to anything… I can barely go out to buy groceries.  It really hurts me at work.  I may skip an old friend’s wedding because I don’t think I can handle it.  Not sure what to do.  I think good psychiatrists are hard to find- I can’t imagine anyone wanting to take on a case like mine. It seems like there is really no way out of this.  I’m just so tired of life being a constant struggle with getting nervous talking to anyone… I’m getting way too old for this. I’m not suicidal, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if I were run over by a truck tomorrow.  Yes, touching, I know. If you’ve made it this far, I apologize for my rambling. If you can think of any way to get out of this mess, let me know.  I can’t even think of a first step that isn’t destined for failure. Jeff psychiatrist I feel trapped in my apartment now and need help, but can’t figure out how to proceed.  My last attempt was several

Response:

Jeff, At this point, it sounds like a plan would be to get back on the Parnate and Klonopin which you said you gave up on.  What are the possibilities of writing the doctor again who originally prescribed the Parnate and the Klonopin?  I believe s/he’s in another country now? so this may be impossible.  If you could and sent your posted letter with your cover letter, you might have a fairly good chance of at least getting a letter of introduction for another doctor.  This may be impractical, but what about trying to see the U.S. doctor who tripled the Parnate dose.  I mean there are at least 2 doctors who weren’t averse to prescribing Parnate and Klonopin for you.   The 2nd doctor could be a definite maybe.  Even if you can’t see this doctor because of distance, could you write a letter to her explaining what you’re going thru and request her to write a letter of introduction "To Whom It May Concern" (some unknown doctor as yet) that explains what you’ve tried, what worked and what her recommendation is. I did this when I relocated to another state in the U.S. several months ago and the introductory letter did help.  I’ve been able to continue taking the same meds, but I’m under a little tighter control right now than I was previously.  That could be changed by seeking out a new shrink or by possibly asking my new family GP if he’d be willing to take over the prescriptions. If none of the above is practical, you can write your own letter of introduction, using most, if not all of what you wrote in this post and make an appt. with a new psychiatrist.  Your post is very explicit so I’d include it too.  Good luck. Doug On 15 Apr 2002 22:50:24 -0700, jeff9…@hotmail.com (Jeff) wrote: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I’m not sure anyone will see this or respond, but at minimum this posting will let me organize my thoughts and try to explain my situation. I’m male, 31 years old, and have lived with debilitating social anxiety for as long as I can remember, long before there were slick TV commercials for marginally effective pharmaceuticals to treat the disorder. I saw my first psychiatrist when I was 18, who told me I was a nice guy and would have a great life, just stop worrying so much.  By the time I was 24 I finally worked up the courage to talk to a doctor about my depression and social anxiety, and went through the usual suspects with less than impressive results: Zoloft, Serzone, Effexor, Moclobemide.  Then I contracted mono (great, what were the chances of that for a 27 year old virgin).  That completely knocked me out for several months.  Through my doctor, I finally got a referral to a good psychiatrist who diagnosed me with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.  He put me on Parnate and Klonopin, and I was pleasantly surprised, because I actually felt better than I’d ever felt in my entire life.  I looked forward to my day… the pounding heart and sweaty palms went away, I didn’t think everyone was staring at me, and I could go out to social functions without getting incredibly nervous. The dietary restrictions for Parnate were a minor inconvenience. So were the sleep disturbances/minor insomnia.  My life became almost normal.  I went out with friends.  I know, I know, you aren’t supposed to feel better just from meds… it takes lots of CBT and hard work.  My experience, even with good therapists says that is not true.  I’ve read the books, and understand all the distortions and negative thought patterns that pass through my mind.  But being aware of them, and being able to get them under control are two separate things.  I just have this brain chemistry that kicks in so strongly that the power of thought is not enough. One year later, after relocating to the US, I mentioned the insomnia to my doctor and she said it was caused by depression, and tripled the dose of Parnate, and also suggested ECT, which I declined.  I didn’t sleep properly for days, and got extremely sick with a bacterial infection, probably because I was so tired and my immune system went on a vacation.  It scared me so much that I took myself off Parnate and Klonopin (tapered) without consulting my doctor, who I no longer trusted. This was the worst decision of my life (and I’ve made a lot of bad decisions).  After a few weeks, I quickly realized my error after I started returning to my old ways of hiding out in my apartment avoiding everyone.  Since then, I’ve been dragged through unsuccessful courses of Prozac, Effexor (yuck) and Wellbutrin (double yuck).  I can tolerate side effects, but generally expect to feel better rather than worse.  That all ended about two years ago, when I gave up on meds and doctors who have a kneejerk reaction of try Paxil… try Effexor… or whatever drug-du-jour is being peddled. So I’ve put myself in a terrible position.  The only thing that ever worked for me was a MAOI, and nobody wants to prescribe that.  Or a scheduled drug like Klonopin.  Probably now I’m profiled as exhibiting drug-seeking behavior.  But that seems odd since I have old unused prescriptions for both of the above sitting in the back of my medicine cabinet, as well as random assortments of various drugs sufficient to kill a horse. So, two years of being med-free, practicing meditation daily, and lots of aerobic exercise have not helped, and I am a complete isolated hopeless nervous mess.  When I went to my doctor last week for a sinus infection, I mentioned that I used to be on Parnate, and she said she couldn’t believe anyone prescribed that anymore, and proceeded to explain how great SSRIs are.  I just shut up, went home and took my antibiotics. I don’t know what to do.  Money is not an issue.  I just want to somehow get out of this mess.  I don’t look forward to anything… I can barely go out to buy groceries.  It really hurts me at work.  I may skip an old friend’s wedding because I don’t think I can handle it.  Not sure what to do.  I think good psychiatrists are hard to find- I can’t imagine anyone wanting to take on a case like mine. It seems like there is really no way out of this.  I’m just so tired of life being a constant struggle with getting nervous talking to anyone… I’m getting way too old for this. I’m not suicidal, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if I were run over by a truck tomorrow.  Yes, touching, I know. If you’ve made it this far, I apologize for my rambling. If you can think of any way to get out of this mess, let me know.  I can’t even think of a first step that isn’t destined for failure. Jeff psychiatrist I feel trapped in my apartment now and need help, but can’t figure out how to proceed.  My last attempt was several

Response:

I’m not sure anyone will see this or respond, but at minimum this posting will let me organize my thoughts and try to explain my situation. I’m male, 31 years old, and have lived with debilitating social anxiety for as long as I can remember, long before there were slick TV commercials for marginally effective pharmaceuticals to treat the disorder. I saw my first psychiatrist when I was 18, who told me I was a nice guy and would have a great life, just stop worrying so much.  By the time I was 24 I finally worked up the courage to talk to a doctor about my depression and social anxiety, and went through the usual suspects with less than impressive results: Zoloft, Serzone, Effexor, Moclobemide.  Then I contracted mono (great, what were the chances of that for a 27 year old virgin).  That completely knocked me out for several months.  Through my doctor, I finally got a referral to a good psychiatrist who diagnosed me with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and depression.  He put me on Parnate and Klonopin, and I was pleasantly surprised, because I actually felt better than I’d ever felt in my entire life.  I looked forward to my day… the pounding heart and sweaty palms went away, I didn’t think everyone was staring at me, and I could go out to social functions without getting incredibly nervous. The dietary restrictions for Parnate were a minor inconvenience. So were the sleep disturbances/minor insomnia.  My life became almost normal.  I went out with friends.  I know, I know, you aren’t supposed to feel better just from meds… it takes lots of CBT and hard work.  My experience, even with good therapists says that is not true.  I’ve read the books, and understand all the distortions and negative thought patterns that pass through my mind.  But being aware of them, and being able to get them under control are two separate things.  I just have this brain chemistry that kicks in so strongly that the power of thought is not enough. One year later, after relocating to the US, I mentioned the insomnia to my doctor and she said it was caused by depression, and tripled the dose of Parnate, and also suggested ECT, which I declined.  I didn’t sleep properly for days, and got extremely sick with a bacterial infection, probably because I was so tired and my immune system went on a vacation.  It scared me so much that I took myself off Parnate and Klonopin (tapered) without consulting my doctor, who I no longer trusted. This was the worst decision of my life (and I’ve made a lot of bad decisions).  After a few weeks, I quickly realized my error after I started returning to my old ways of hiding out in my apartment avoiding everyone.  Since then, I’ve been dragged through unsuccessful courses of Prozac, Effexor (yuck) and Wellbutrin (double yuck).  I can tolerate side effects, but generally expect to feel better rather than worse.  That all ended about two years ago, when I gave up on meds and doctors who have a kneejerk reaction of try Paxil… try Effexor… or whatever drug-du-jour is being peddled. So I’ve put myself in a terrible position.  The only thing that ever worked for me was a MAOI, and nobody wants to prescribe that.  Or a scheduled drug like Klonopin.  Probably now I’m profiled as exhibiting drug-seeking behavior.  But that seems odd since I have old unused prescriptions for both of the above sitting in the back of my medicine cabinet, as well as random assortments of various drugs sufficient to kill a horse. So, two years of being med-free, practicing meditation daily, and lots of aerobic exercise have not helped, and I am a complete isolated hopeless nervous mess.  When I went to my doctor last week for a sinus infection, I mentioned that I used to be on Parnate, and she said she couldn’t believe anyone prescribed that anymore, and proceeded to explain how great SSRIs are.  I just shut up, went home and took my antibiotics. I don’t know what to do.  Money is not an issue.  I just want to somehow get out of this mess.  I don’t look forward to anything… I can barely go out to buy groceries.  It really hurts me at work.  I may skip an old friend’s wedding because I don’t think I can handle it.  Not sure what to do.  I think good psychiatrists are hard to find- I can’t imagine anyone wanting to take on a case like mine. It seems like there is really no way out of this.  I’m just so tired of life being a constant struggle with getting nervous talking to anyone… I’m getting way too old for this. I’m not suicidal, but wouldn’t be terribly upset if I were run over by a truck tomorrow.  Yes, touching, I know. If you’ve made it this far, I apologize for my rambling. If you can think of any way to get out of this mess, let me know.  I can’t even think of a first step that isn’t destined for failure. Jeff psychiatrist I feel trapped in my apartment now and need help, but can’t figure out how to proceed.  My last attempt was several

Response:

Hello Jeff, I read through your message to the end. I stay away from this group now because of the cross posting. I’m sorry to tell you there are no simple answers for anyone like you or me suffering from Social Phobia. If there were this great newsgroup that has been decimated by cross posters wouldn’t exist. The only thing you can be certain of is that you will continue to suffer unless something great happens to you which it could. For me being able to leave my so called home where I live with my cruel parents would be the breakthrough for me but that can’t happen yet and may never happen. You say money isn’t a problem. In that case as bad as things may seem to be you could be like me living at home with almost no money at all. I’m not being dismissive here. I understand perfectly well that the solution for each of us that would give us the greatest relief is different for all of us and just because you can do what I can’t which is to get away from my parents in no way means that you aren’t suffering as much as I am. My advice to you is to keep trying. You say you are not suicidal and neither am I by the way then you will keep going forever hoping that things will sort themselves out somehow and maybe they will. The root cause of Social Phobia isn’t at all understood and naturally this is a major problem. I think I have a handle on it in my own case and this helps but the psychological battering I take from my parents 24/7 prevents me from making the breakthroughs I could now make if I was out on my own. I’m 48 by the way. Many people in the group(as it used to be) get great relif from drugs like Seroxat/Paxil but there was a post I saw at one point where the subject line was "Paxil is a Monster". So while drugs work for some people and in many cases transform their lives this is not always the case, indeed far from it. Satellites orbit the earth and perform many functions for us like providing us with a great telecommunications system but sadly the drugs available today are so primitive that they can hardly be described as therapeutic although drugs like anti-biotics are first class compounds. The same cannot be said for other drugs as you almost certainly know yourself. All I can say is you will keep going and always looking out for a way out of this savage disorder that annihilates it’s victims. I’m sorry I can’t help you. Have you tried Seroxat/Paxil? Some people in the group swear by it! Drugs would have no effect on me. Peter Nolan. To email please remove x from xpeter…@gofree.indigo.ie

Response:

Question:

Hi, I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)?

NO.  After the growth areas in the bones have closed off, no further height can be achieved.   Tsu Dho Nimh A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.

Response:

I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? Only if your growth plates haven’t already closed. — | Microsoft: "A reputation for releasing inferior software will make | | it more difficult for a software vendor to induce customers to pay | | for new products or new versions of existing products."            |

What about DHEA  Is it good for all problems?

Response:

I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? Only if your growth plates haven’t already closed. What about DHEA  Is it good for all problems?

If you have a seratonin deficiency caused by low DHEA, and assuming that a reasonable amount makes it through the digestive system and blood-brain barrier, then it could do you a lot of good. — | Microsoft: "A reputation for releasing inferior software will make | | it more difficult for a software vendor to induce customers to pay | | for new products or new versions of existing products."            |

Response:

I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? Only if your growth plates haven’t already closed.

Can I get this tested, e.g. by my physician?

Response:

What about DHEA  Is it good for all problems?

What is DHEA compared with HGH?

Response:

I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? NO.  After the growth areas in the bones have closed off, no further height can be achieved.  

Okay, say that is the case (they have closed off). Would it cause negative effects etc. when I took HGH or DHEA? What would be better for "testing", HGH or DHEA or both? And: When will be the time to determine if it works or not?

Response:

I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? NO.  After the growth areas in the bones have closed off, no further height can be achieved.   Okay, say that is the case (they have closed off). Would it cause negative effects etc. when I took HGH or DHEA?

Mucking around with hormones is not a good idea.  Also true HGH is a very expensive injectible presctiption-only substance, not something you can buy retail.   It sounds like you are a short 22-year old male who wants to be taller.  Unfortunately, genetics and nutritional status during childhood and adolescence have almost complete control over height.   Tsu Dho Nimh A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.

Response:

I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? Only if your growth plates haven’t already closed. Can I get this tested, e.g. by my physician?

X-rays would show whether or not the long bones had active growth plates or not.   Tsu Dho Nimh A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.

Response:

I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? Only if your growth plates haven’t already closed. Can I get this tested, e.g. by my physician?

Yup.  One of the 18yo boys was having some joint pain recently, and since they’ve been slow growing (and are still a bit shorter than their father) we thought maybe it was a late growth spurt causing something like Osgood Schlatter’s Disease. Nope.  The orthopod reported that the growth plates were *almost* closed. — | Microsoft: "A reputation for releasing inferior software will make | | it more difficult for a software vendor to induce customers to pay | | for new products or new versions of existing products."            |

Response:

Hi, I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? Manuel

Hi Manuel- I personally grew 2 inches at age 30 as a result of heavy therapy which cleared out some difficult childhood trauma. HGH (whether injectable, releaser or homeopathic) has NOT had very good results with people like yourself. But if for years you have felt yourself to be small, short, unhappy about your height, etc; there is a possibility (my GUESS would be about 3%-10% chance) that HGH might do something for your height partly because of psychological reasons. Good luck. Thayer Thayer White MA MFT http://www.helpself.com http://www.psychologyhelp.com http://www.hghcompany.com

Response:

Hi, I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)? Manuel

Response:

I would like to know if taking HGH drugs can stimulate growth when one is already 22 (male)?

Only if your growth plates haven’t already closed. — | Microsoft: "A reputation for releasing inferior software will make | | it more difficult for a software vendor to induce customers to pay | | for new products or new versions of existing products."            |

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -salarmy4me wrote:

I am trying Serzone and Visken and am on only the second day. Visken is a beta-blocker with anti-anxiety and   anti-depressant properties. The initial testing of visken with ADs showed good results. People recovered faster than with   antidepressants alone. Visken has to be used only with certain antidepressants, though. Only Paxil, Prozac, Effexor, and   Serzone have been augmented. Of course, the combo has to be studied more, but maybe I am the guinea pig for the   combo. Dr. Bob’s discussion on this showed that 15 mg is the right dose: 5mg three times a day. The side effect profile is   benign. Interestingly, I had a burst of crying in joy today. I never had that with serzone alone, but perhaps its actually the   Serzone that has finally kicked in. If anyone is interested, I will tell you more about the augmentation strategy. * Sent from AltaVista http://www.altavista.com Where you can also find related Web Pages, Images, Audios, Videos, News, and Shopping.  Smart is Beautiful

I’m interested…I tried Serzone but it didn’t help with my OCD. Am now on Effexor-XR. What is Visken? Thanks!

Response:

I am trying Serzone and Visken and am on only the second day. Visken is a beta-blocker with anti-anxiety and   anti-depressant properties. The initial testing of visken with ADs showed good results. People recovered faster than with   antidepressants alone. Visken has to be used only with certain antidepressants, though. Only Paxil, Prozac, Effexor, and   Serzone have been augmented. Of course, the combo has to be studied more, but maybe I am the guinea pig for the   combo. Dr. Bob’s discussion on this showed that 15 mg is the right dose: 5mg three times a day. The side effect profile is   benign. Interestingly, I had a burst of crying in joy today. I never had that with serzone alone, but perhaps its actually the   Serzone that has finally kicked in. If anyone is interested, I will tell you more about the augmentation strategy. * Sent from AltaVista http://www.altavista.com Where you can also find related Web Pages, Images, Audios, Videos, News, and Shopping.  Smart is Beautiful

Response:

Question:

they often times don`t know how to treat anxiety disorders effectively. Benzos, also known as tranqulizers, are one of the most effective meds for anxiety and are least likely to cause sexual dysfunction.

in addition the tricyclic antidepressants work better more often for migraine type headaches, neuralgia and pain then the ssri types you have taken and have much less sexually disruptive side effects-drugs like tofranil or elavil, pamelor and sinequan are ones to ask your doc about LM

Response:

:Hi, :My doctor has diagnosed me with General Anxiety Disorder. She has been :trying to treat me for 5 months now. I have been on Zoloft, Wellbutrin, :Lexapro and now Effexor. All of which ruined my sex life! The only time :I was ok was when I was just on the Wellbutrin but then I needed the ther for the anxiety. My doctor started me on these types of pills :cause I was having headaches that she believes is caused from stress and :anxiety. My question to all of you is….Is there an anxiety pill that :does not have sexual side affects? Is there a pill that is helping :anyone in that department? I go back to the doctor on Wednesday to see :what she is gonna do with me now. I’m so tired of going once a month. :The headaches are better tho. I would appreciate any help. Thanks! :Christi Dear Christi, It sounds like your MD, not a psych doctor, is treating your anxiety disorder? If that`s the case, I suggest you find a psych doctor that specializes in anxiety disorders to be treated. While MD`s may be well intentioned, they often times don`t know how to treat anxiety disorders effectively. Benzos, also known as tranqulizers, are one of the most effective meds for anxiety and are least likely to cause sexual dysfunction. Take care Jackie ~*~All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another~*~         ~Anatole France~

Response:

Hi, My doctor has diagnosed me with General Anxiety Disorder. She has been trying to treat me for 5 months now. I have been on Zoloft, Wellbutrin, Lexapro and now Effexor. All of which ruined my sex life! The only time I was ok was when I was just on the Wellbutrin but then I needed the other for the anxiety. My doctor started me on these types of pills cause I was having headaches that she believes is caused from stress and anxiety. My question to all of you is….Is there an anxiety pill that does not have sexual side affects? Is there a pill that is helping anyone in that department? I go back to the doctor on Wednesday to see what she is gonna do with me now. I’m so tired of going once a month. The headaches are better tho. I would appreciate any help. Thanks! Christi

Response:

Hi, My doctor has diagnosed me with General Anxiety Disorder. She has been trying to treat me for 5 months now. I have been on Zoloft, Wellbutrin, Lexapro and now Effexor. All of which ruined my sex life! The only time I was ok was when I was just on the Wellbutrin but then I needed the other for the anxiety. My doctor started me on these types of pills cause I was having headaches that she believes is caused from stress and anxiety. My question to all of you is….Is there an anxiety pill that does not have sexual side affects? Is there a pill that is helping anyone in that department? I go back to the doctor on Wednesday to see what she is gonna do with me now. I’m so tired of going once a month. The headaches are better tho. I would appreciate any help. Thanks! Christi

Hi Christi, I’m on Xanax which is a benzo (tranquilizer) and has no sexual side effects at all…In fact there is no weaning onto this class of drug, and no need to wait days/weeks to feel a difference. It will take effect within 10-50 minutes. It simply slows down your nervous system. The other popular drugs in this class are Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, etc…BTW Tension headaches are part of my anxiety… Good Luck with your doc, Kevin…

Response:

I am 31 years old and recently began taking Aropax (paroxetine like paxil) to combat anxiety and depression that I’ve had as long as I can remember. GAD isolates me from people (no friends, no relationships) and it was my hope that the medication would allow me to enjoy being around people so I could start dating and going out.  Problem is after 5 days, Aropax has taken away my sex drive and I can’t achieve orgasm.  This is very depressing and I don’t see how I can meet a woman in this condition.  My self-esteem is zero. Also my family has a big reunion coming up – mostly relations I hardly know, and I am worried they will make me feel inadequate (which I cannot handle) but I don’t see how I can get out of it without offending anyone. Any Ideas? David

Response:

: I am 31 years old and recently began taking Aropax (paroxetine like paxil) : to combat anxiety and depression that I’ve had as long as I can remember. : GAD isolates me from people (no friends, no relationships) and it was my : hope that the medication would allow me to enjoy being around people so I : could start dating and going out.  Problem is after 5 days, Aropax has taken : away my sex drive and I can’t achieve orgasm.  This is very depressing and I : don’t see how I can meet a woman in this condition.  My self-esteem is zero. : : Also my family has a big reunion coming up – mostly relations I hardly know, : and I am worried they will make me feel inadequate (which I cannot handle) : but I don’t see how I can get out of it without offending anyone. Hi David, It takes a month or so for your body to adjust to paroxetine, and the side effects may only be temporary. I know, since I used the same med myself and experienced temporary sexual side effects too. It’s also natural for men to get excessively self conscious and anxious about their sexual status, and such anxiety can interfere with sex drive too. Sometimes it’s good to take a vacation from orgasms for a few days; which can be an aphrodisiac. Also, it’s important to remember that no med can completely solve anxiety and depression on its own. Living with anxiety and depression for years does leave psychological scars which take time and effort to heal. Even with a good med, recovery can be a difficult and awkward process of trying new things and testing our limits. It’s important not to rush the process; just embrace challenges at a pace that is right for you. Push yourself, but be patient with yourself too. We all fall down from time to time, but it’s how often we get back up that really matters. Best Wishes, Arthur

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Hello David, Paroxetine IMO is very difficult to go on for most people.  In my experience I had very similar problems sexually as you do now.  I found that over time my sex drive returned (this happened once I was at my current dosage for about a month).  One question I would have for you is what is your current dosage?  I know starting too high will make these side effect worse.  As far as a possible solution to your problem, one option is to get a prescription for Welbutrin, to take with your Paroxetine.  This has been known to knock this problem out for many people.  Hope this helps. Good Luck! d

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am 31 years old and recently began taking Aropax (paroxetine like paxil) to combat anxiety and depression that I’ve had as long as I can remember. GAD isolates me from people (no friends, no relationships) and it was my hope that the medication would allow me to enjoy being around people so I could start dating and going out.  Problem is after 5 days, Aropax has taken away my sex drive and I can’t achieve orgasm.  This is very depressing and I don’t see how I can meet a woman in this condition.  My self-esteem is zero. Also my family has a big reunion coming up – mostly relations I hardly know, and I am worried they will make me feel inadequate (which I cannot handle) but I don’t see how I can get out of it without offending anyone. Any Ideas? David

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Thanks to everyone who responded.  It really does make me feel better to read such supportive comments.   No more AOL….. Thanks again! Peace, Dan

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I’d like to introduce myself.  I’m a twenty six year old male, and I’ve read this newsgroup on and off for the last couple years.   Also, I’d like some feedback on my medication.  First, though, my history with panic disorder…  Ever since I was a little kid I’ve had trouble with panic attacks.  In Little League, I was a nervous wreck before games because I thought I might have an attack.  (Of course at the time I didn’t know what they were, and was afraid to tell anyone.)  I quit the basketball team because I thought I was prone to PAs at night, particularly in the lighting of a gymnasium.  These were textbook panic attacks I was having (and worrying about having!) – most of the symptoms, and they’d last about fifteen minutes or so. I had a pretty normal childhood otherwise.  By the time I reached high school, I considered the PAs a thing of the past, something I’d luckily outgrown.  I made it through college without really giving panic attacks any thought. Then — about three years ago (I’d been out of college almost a year), I was going through a somewhat stressful time in my life, trying to figure out my future, looking for a career I cared about, etc.  I had *the* worst panic attack I’d ever had, and the reason it was so bad was because it seemed to not go away.  Without exaggeration, I can honestly say that I felt like I was having a panic attack for two months.  I had no idea what was going on, and grew very depressed.  I was living with my girlfriend, who was supportive as she could be, but she was the only person I told.  This was a very dark, scary time in my life.  Things lightened up a bit when I finally told my mom.  She knew someone who’d had a problem that sounded similar.  Soon, I moved back home.  I met with my mom’s friend, who gave me several books to read (Kernodle, Sheehan, Reid, Weekes), which I read with a frenzy.  She also recommended a psychiatrist, who helped me through medication.  This was a summer of healing for me.  We found a medication combination – 5 mg per day of Xanax, 1mg per day Klonopin, and 150 mg per day Zoloft.  I had tried Imipramine, but it made me feel even more anxious, as though I were about to have a PA at any time. Anyway, this dosage took awhile to reach, but it was the dosage that worked for me.  I also read and practiced many of the self-help techniques such as deep relaxation, breathing exercises, meditation, stopping negative thought patterns, et al.  It took awhile, but I got better.  I finally felt some joy in life again.  Since then, I’ve stayed at the same dosages of the medications, with few side effects, and feel very good.  I’ve had panic attacks begin, but the combination of the medication and learning not to fear the attack enables me to take a deep breath and let it go.  My life isn’t perfect, but I feel sane. I’ve moved away from my parents house, and owe them a HUGE debt of gratitude for letting me free-load for a year as I got better.  It took me awhile to get a job, because I had an immense fear of being stuck somewhere for eight hours. I wasn’t afraid to go out – I was afraid, though, to *have* to be in one place.  When I finally started working, it was a huge step in my recovery.   So, I’m curious what your thoughts are on my medication.  Sometimes I feel a bit guilty, like I should try to taper off the meds.  Other times, I’m perfectly content to stay on them the rest of my life.  I haven’t built up a tolerance for the Xanax, so that’s not a problem.  My doctor mentions tapering every time I see her, which is every three months, but lately I’ve been in so many transitional stages in my life, I just haven’t felt ready to mess with the medication.  (First I moved away from home – far away, actually – and then I got married to the girlfriend who’d been so supportive when I first got sick, and now we have a three month old baby boy….I’d call all that "transitional".)   That’s my story, and I’m curious what you all have to say about my medication. I know the dosages are pretty high, but I also know that quality of life is not something to take for granted. Peace, Dan "Is a dream a lie if it don’t come true  Or is it something worse?"              - Bruce Springsteen

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It is hard enough to find medications that take care of the symptoms. If these meds work for you, then you have achieved your goal and I would not try to change them right now, just to get your life back in shape while you are still feeling well.  Make sure your doc. informs you about all possible side effects, but basically I wouldn’t touch a thing for as long as possible if you find a set of meds that really work for you. Dr.S. There are no false alarms http://www.algy.com/pdi – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -(SYMKTB) writes: I’d like to introduce myself.  I’m a twenty six year old male, and I’ve read this newsgroup on and off for the last couple years.   Also, I’d like some feedback on my medication.  First, though, my history with panic disorder…  Ever since I was a little kid I’ve had trouble with panic attacks.  In Little League, I was a nervous wreck before games because I thought I might have an attack.  (Of course at the time I didn’t know what they were, and was afraid to tell anyone.)  I quit the basketball team because I thought I was prone to PAs at night, particularly in the lighting of a gymnasium.  These were textbook panic attacks I was having (and worrying about having!) – most of the symptoms, and they’d last about fifteen minutes or so. I had a pretty normal childhood otherwise.  By the time I reached high school, I considered the PAs a thing of the past, something I’d luckily outgrown.  I made it through college without really giving panic attacks any thought. Then — about three years ago (I’d been out of college almost a year), I was going through a somewhat stressful time in my life, trying to figure out my future, looking for a career I cared about, etc.  I had *the* worst panic attack I’d ever had, and the reason it was so bad was because it seemed to not go away.  Without exaggeration, I can honestly say that I felt like I was having a panic attack for two months.  I had no idea what was going on, and grew very depressed.  I was living with my girlfriend, who was supportive as she could be, but she was the only person I told.  This was a very dark, scary time in my life.  Things lightened up a bit when I finally told my mom.  She knew someone who’d had a problem that sounded similar.  Soon, I moved back home.  I met with my mom’s friend, who gave me several books to read (Kernodle, Sheehan, Reid, Weekes), which I read with a frenzy.  She also recommended a psychiatrist, who helped me through medication.  This was a summer of healing for me.  We found a medication combination – 5 mg per day of Xanax, 1mg per day Klonopin, and 150 mg per day Zoloft.  I had tried Imipramine, but it made me feel even more anxious, as though I were about to have a PA at any time. Anyway, this dosage took awhile to reach, but it was the dosage that worked for me.  I also read and practiced many of the self-help techniques such as deep relaxation, breathing exercises, meditation, stopping negative thought patterns, et al.  It took awhile, but I got better.  I finally felt some joy in life again.  Since then, I’ve stayed at the same dosages of the medications, with few side effects, and feel very good.  I’ve had panic attacks begin, but the combination of the medication and learning not to fear the attack enables me to take a deep breath and let it go.  My life isn’t perfect, but I feel sane. I’ve moved away from my parents house, and owe them a HUGE debt of gratitude for letting me free-load for a year as I got better.  It took me awhile to get a job, because I had an immense fear of being stuck somewhere for eight hours. I wasn’t afraid to go out – I was afraid, though, to *have* to be in one place. When I finally started working, it was a huge step in my recovery.   So, I’m curious what your thoughts are on my medication.  Sometimes I feel a bit guilty, like I should try to taper off the meds.  Other times, I’m perfectly content to stay on them the rest of my life.  I haven’t built up a tolerance for the Xanax, so that’s not a problem.  My doctor mentions tapering every time I see her, which is every three months, but lately I’ve been in so many transitional stages in my life, I just haven’t felt ready to mess with the medication.  (First I moved away from home – far away, actually – and then I got married to the girlfriend who’d been so supportive when I first got sick, and now we have a three month old baby boy….I’d call all that "transitional".)   That’s my story, and I’m curious what you all have to say about my medication. I know the dosages are pretty high, but I also know that quality of life is not something to take for granted. Peace, Dan "Is a dream a lie if it don’t come true Or is it something worse?"             – Bruce Springsteen

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SYMKTB schreef: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – < snipped life story for space  We found a medication combination – 5 mg per day of Xanax, 1mg per day Klonopin, and 150 mg per day Zoloft. with few side effects, and feel very good.  I’ve had panic attacks begin, but the combination of the medication and learning not to fear the attack enables me to take a deep breath and let it go.  My life isn’t perfect, but I feel sane. So, I’m curious what your thoughts are on my medication.  Sometimes I feel a bit guilty, like I should try to taper off the meds.  Other times, I’m perfectly content to stay on them the rest of my life.  I haven’t built up a tolerance for the Xanax, so that’s not a problem.  My doctor mentions tapering every time I see her, which is every three months, but lately I’ve been in so many transitional stages in my life, I just haven’t felt ready to mess with the medication.  (First I moved away from home – far away, actually – and then I got married to the girlfriend who’d been so supportive when I first got sick, and now we have a three month old baby boy….I’d call all that "transitional".) That’s my story, and I’m curious what you all have to say about my medication. I know the dosages are pretty high, but I also know that quality of life is not something to take for granted. Peace, Dan

Hi Dan! Good to hear you’re doing so much better. It seems you have a nice family and your parents seem to have an OK son who will surely be a great father himself. It’s a kind of success story which is always inspirational and it seems there is much warmth around you. About the meds: it’s a lot of benzodiazepine but if it works, it works and if you don’t notice side effects like motor or cognitive impairment I wouldn’t worry about it. The combo of SSRI and benzo is a common one and the Zoloft dose is not unusually high. I’m happy that it works for you the way it does. If and when you feel like it you can always experiment with reducing the Xanax dosage but if it turns out that need 5 mgs that’s fine too IMO. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – "Is a dream a lie if it don’t come true  Or is it something worse?"              - Bruce Springsteen

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We found a medication combination – 5 mg per day of Xanax, 1mg per day Klonopin, and 150 mg per day Zoloft…… I’ve stayed at the same dosages of the medications, with few side effects, and feel very good.  I’ve had panic attacks begin, but the combination of the medication and learning not to fear the attack enables me to take a deep breath and let it go.  My life isn’t perfect, but I feel sane.

This is great you have had such support and found a combo that works for you and given you back your life. So, I’m curious what your thoughts are on my medication.  Sometimes I feel a bit guilty, like I should try to taper off the meds.  Other times, I’m perfectly content to stay on them the rest of my life.  I haven’t built up a tolerance for the Xanax, so that’s not a problem.

My first reaction is – if it ain’t broken, why fix it?  I think many of us get to a point we feel we can do this without meds and you are certainly free to try and lower your doses and see what happens.  I did that once and found I didn’t need as much K as I was taking.  Went a little lower and found I had pushed it too far.  Anyways,  I don’t know why you feel guilty, as IMO, there is no need to.  Better to be on meds and functioning than a suffering *warrior*.  Plus you have already been there and know what it is like. My doctor mentions tapering every time I see her, which is every three months, but lately I’ve been in so many transitional stages in my life, I just haven’t felt ready to mess with the medication

An excellent reason for NOT making changes at this time.  If you do want to try that….I hope you will do it at a time when life is relatively stable and nonchaotic – and having a new baby sure doesn’t seem the time.  Congrats by the way.  :) That’s my story, and I’m curious what you all have to say about my medication. I know the dosages are pretty high, but I also know that quality of life is not something to take for granted.

Dan…I think you just answered your own question.  Dosages are irrelevent – all that matters is what works for the individual.  Alot to be said for that quality of life thing. Best wishes… Gwen

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(SYMKTB) writes: That’s my story, and I’m curious what you all have to say about my medication.

Hi Dan, good story. It gives people hope when they read that someone is doing well. I can’t give you much input on the meds. Please don’t ever feel guilty about taking the medication you need to control the PD. I suffered for years without them. I tried going to therapy and CBT  but nothing ever worked for me.  I’m considering asking my Dr about taking Klonopin. I’ve taken Xanax .5 mg PRN for the past 2 years. I’ve had PD since I was a child as well, but it was only 2 years ago that I decided to go to a Dr and ask for medication. You’re fortunate to have a supporting family and spouse. It’s much easier to deal with your PD if you know someone actually "believes" what’s going on. My husband always thought I was "making it up" until he saw our (at the time 4 yr old) daughter going through a PA. First he started to yell at her, then he saw the fear on her little face and said,"my God, what’s wrong with her?" Of course, I knew what was happening to her and told him. Then he felt awful for all those years of actually yelling at me to "knock off the bullsh*t" during my PA’s. Now whenever he witnesses one, he comes close to tears and tries everything he can to help. I can really relate to your comment on not being afraid to go out, but  being afraid of *having* to be somewhere for 8 hours. I have to return to work as soon as my daughter starts school, and I know I can only handle a few hours a day. That’s why I’m thinking about the Klonopin. I’m sure you’ll get a lot of helpful information from your post. I really learn a lot from here as long as I skip over the useless "wars" that go on. I don’t post here that often myself, but , what prompted me to was to congratulate you on your new baby boy!  And that I see you are a fellow BOSS fan! good luck with the little 3 month old "transition"!! (that’s a biggie isn’t it? LOL!) adp

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Well excuseeee me for having a fucking rotten life.

Aw Lee…..you ain’t alone!  If you don’t like them, don’t read them.

The wisest philosophy – seems a bit too complex for some. This is a support group for gods sake.  WE ARE TRYING TO FEEL NORMAL!!!

YEAH YEAH!!!  Well, as best we can! Lee ::kicks the damn computer::

Ooooo..don’t do THAT…we might lose ya for another week!  :) Gwen

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anyone else have a web tv . other than this group what do you look at anne in sf

Hi Anne, You might want to go into TALK City, there are alot of support chat groups and other topics. But watch out there are some chat rooms that you really don’t want to venture into. John

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reading all these messages is depressing.  I here a lot of pain and grief

and I hope there’s more people out there who are actually feeling

normal. Well excuseeee me for having a fucking rotten life.  If you don’t like them, don’t read them.  This is a support group for gods sake.  WE ARE TRYING TO FEEL NORMAL!!! Lee ::kicks the damn computer:: "Life sucks and then you die" but in the mean time, "shit happens" so "deal with it" and "go with the flow" because "life is too important to be taken seriously".

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I’m 19 years old and found myself the other day talking to a psychiatrist. The next thing I know, I’m popping in Zoloft pills.

What was your diagnosis to be put on Zoloft?     The very next day, walking to class, I felt so weird.  My hands were more     ultra clammy, my feet were clammy, my pits were sweating, and I     didn’t have a nauseaous attack luckily, but I had a nausea sensation all that    morning just enough to tick me off.

Sounds like normal side effects when starting an SRI, tho normal seems an odd word to use in this case. mmmm.  reading all these messages is depressing.  I here a lot of pain and grief and I hope there’s more people out there who are actually feeling normal.

I see many positive posts here.  Hope you are seeing those as well. How long are the Zoloft side effects suppose to remain?  I feel like I’m wired up, but tired.

Typically….2 – 6 weeks, but they should lessen dramatically in 2 if the med is going to work for you.  There is no one answer for every person.  Do talk to your doc if you need some reassurance or something to help with the increased anxiety Zoloft sometimes causes in the beginning. Gwen

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anyone else have a web tv . other than this group what do you look at anne in sf

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im using my real name now , i dont know why lady told me to use coded name sfannie

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this is anne . i know i have the web and  am relitavely new. where do other people go to check about  anxiety .  please give  on line address in blue. i dont know if you know what i mean by blue but that means i can click it on without having to type an address . i have a hard time getting around  on line  thanks

My web page is listed below, and might be "in blue" to you… I guess it depends on your mail reader and its set-up.  In any case, I have a references page that lists some other web pages I have found useful, and books, etc.  Let me know if you find it useful. Snit Snit’s Anxiety Suggestions: http://www.azstarnet.com/~snit/anxiety.html Ramblings about my journey toward recovery.  

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(lynn) writes: anyone else have a web tv . other than this group what do you look at anne in sf

No, I don’t. It sounds cool. i’m a tv addict, anne. So i watch lots of different shows. my favorites include: Ally McBeal, Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Oprah, NYPD Blue, Homicide: Life on the Streets, ER, Law and Order, Larry Sanders, Dennis Miller. I could go on but it’s embarrassing how addicted I am. These tv people are often characters who’s company I prefer to Real people. Not healthy, I know. But I rationalize it that it’s a healthier addiction than alcohol or cocaine. Maybe not. It keeps me isolated. Helps keep me isolated. But now I’m dating and getting out more. Tell us about Web tv. Is it really great? do you have picture in picture? WRITER/CATCH MY TRAIN OF THOUGHT "You can’t have everything. Where would you put it?" (Steven Wright)

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I’m 19 years old and found myself the other day talking to a psychiatrist. The next thing I know, I’m popping in Zoloft pills.      The very next day, walking to class, I felt so weird.  My hands were more      ultra clammy, my feet were clammy, my pits were sweating, and I      didn’t have a nauseaous attack luckily, but I had a nausea sensation all that     morning just enough to tick me off. mmmm.  reading all these messages is depressing.  I here a lot of pain and grief and I hope there’s more people out there who are actually feeling normal. How long are the Zoloft side effects suppose to remain?  I feel like I’m wired up, but tired.

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this is anne . i know i have the web and  am relitavely new. where do other people go to check about  anxiety .  please give  on line address in blue. i dont know if you know what i mean by blue but that means i can click it on without having to type an address . i have a hard time getting around  on line  thanks

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