Question:

Hi all, For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky. I own what my family refers to as ‘the suitcase’.  It’s a BIG purse [actually an athletic bag].  Just inside the legal limit for carry-on for the airlines.  Amazing how much stuff you can get in there.  :) Chris Owens

I’m laughing! The last time the whole family flew somewhere, I carried all meds in a huge athletic bag. When a security guard stopped me to look through the bag, I just kinda threw it at him and said, "Whatever. It’s all medicine. Knock yourself out." I ignored him and tried to corral the kids. He unzipped it and took a single look. He rolled his eyes and said, "Man, I’m not going through all that. Go ahead." Mary

Response:

I use the Aerogear by the Aerochamber people.  It has an Aerochamber and a Truzone pfm all in a fanny pack.  It is very convenient and also holds about 3 MDI’s.  I can let you know where to get one if you are interested.

Response:

I use the Pulmicort Inhaler (budesonide) this comes with a small spacer.  It measures about an inch square and 3 inches long, expanding to twice its length when used. I find it better than the normal inhaler as it does not effect my throat as the other bectotide did. Steve

Your email address indicates you are in the UK. In the US, Pulmicort is only available as a Turbuhaler (DPI) No spacer is used since it is breath actuated. The best spacer is probably the AeroChamber, a medium size valved device with whistle. For those who want a small spacer for travel, the OptiHaler is very compact, the MDI may be carried in the device. Ellis – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky. Thanks for any suggestions. Margaret

Response:

I use the Ellipse spacer; both my Serevent and Flovent fit right into it. That and my peak flow both fit into a small handbag quite easily. Great for carry-on to airplanes! C-ko "ambition makes you look very ugly kicking squealing gucci little piggy why don’t you remember my name you runt?" paranoid android — radiohead

Response:

Hi all, For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky.

I own what my family refers to as ‘the suitcase’.  It’s a BIG purse [actually an athletic bag].  Just inside the legal limit for carry-on for the airlines.  Amazing how much stuff you can get in there.  :) Chris Owens

Response:

Hi all, For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky. I own what my family refers to as ‘the suitcase’.  It’s a BIG purse [actually an athletic bag].  Just inside the legal limit for carry-on for the airlines.  Amazing how much stuff you can get in there.  :) Chris Owens

 It’s best to carry your spacer, becuase then you can avoid and oral yeast infection.

Response:

When I travel, I pack all my meds, my spacer, and my peak flow meter in an insulated lunch box.  The insulated part was for if they had to sit in the trunk of my car for several hours, like when I’m going home for Christmas break.  So far, I’ve never had any trouble with the inhalers getting too hot or cold, and everything is in one place. janet – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky. Thanks for any suggestions. Margaret

Response:

Hi I use the Pulmicort Inhaler (budesonide) this comes with a small spacer.  It measures about an inch square and 3 inches long, expanding to twice its length when used. I find it better than the normal inhaler as it does not effect my throat as the other bectotide did. Steve – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky. Thanks for any suggestions. Margaret

Response:

Hi all, For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky. Thanks for any suggestions. Margaret

Response:

Hi all, For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky. Thanks for any suggestions. Margaret

I have a really nifty spacer. Its no bigger than a ventolin inhaler itself. I can’t get them commercially but they get left as promotional samples at my drugstore. They are made by Boehringer Ingelheim ( in Connecticut ) and are called Inhalation Aids Jerry Freedman,Jr

Response:

:Hi all, :For those of you who use a spacer when taking oral sprays (as I do) do you :take your spacer with you when you travel and if so, how do you pack :it/take it with you? Mind’s rather bulky. I do use one and always take mine with me when I travel. mine comes apart into two sections that fit together (like this!)  / /   / /    / a) In that shape they fit into the pocket of a rucksack (30-40L) and sundries likes the inhalers and/or a PFL can fir into the holow. b) It is also a convenient shape for putting into a suitace, and socks can fill the hollow. :Thanks for any suggestions. :Margaret : : : Barry Landy                        Computer Laboratory:+44 1223 334600 University of Cambridge Computing Service New Museums Site                   Email: Remove "nospam" from above Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3QG

Response:

Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am hoping someone may have some suggestions/advice for me. I have been diagnosed with ADD for which I take Concerta (36 mgs at 6:00 am). This has helped me quite a bit. I however start to feel tense and anxious in the afternoon which will build up until I take 100 mg Seroquel about 1/2 hour before sleeping. I work in the computer field which I enjoy very much. I can’t seem to let my work go and am constantly studying and extremely curious about computers/networks in general. It seems I am always thinking out scenarios in my head about various ways to do things. The problem is that this compulsive thinking is leading to my anxious state. My dr. has tried me on numerous meds such as paxil, zoloft, effexor, luvox, depakote, lithium, remeron, wellebutrin, etc. I am not depressed, I just am (and have always been) somewhat hyper and cannot relax. It seems any med that works with serotonin just gives me bad headaches. I respond easily to Klonipin, not so well with Antivan. I guess I have ADD and am somewhat obsessive/compulsive. Erv

ever try strattera? or good old tca meds like imipramine? LM — The charter is available at:

Question:

now, my doctor wants to take me off the effexor to see if it is the problem… i have already slipped backwards because of all this and new financial problems created by my ex— i am scared to death to go off the effexor.

Also, think about getting a second opinion on the drug issues from a psychiatrist. Bruce.

Response:

things have slowly deteriorating health wise for me… nothing deadly like cancer — i just feel dead.  i think my metabolism is running on empty. after a slew of testing nothing has been found yet…

((((((((((((((Donna)))))))))))))))) As I’m sure you’ve read, that isn’t one of the common side effects of effexor, but everyone is different.  Make sure you’re not taking any over-the-counter (e.g. St John’s Wort) or prescription drugs that might be interacting with the effexor. i am so disgusted.  all i know is, if this is how it feels to be 46 i’d rather be dead.

No, this is NOT how 46 feels!  There is nothing about getting older that makes us feel bad.  It’s the bumps in the road along the way that can drag us down.  But it’s always temporary.  Sooner or later we figure out what’s wrong and set it right.  Please hang on! now, my doctor wants to take me off the effexor to see if it is the problem… i have already slipped backwards because of all this and new financial problems created by my ex— i am scared to death to go off the effexor.

What dosage are you on?  It’s hard to guess because too little Effexor can worsen depression and with it fatigue, but it’s also a possible side effect of the effexor so it’s very difficult to even guess.  I’ve read that lethargy is not usually associated with effexor, so the symptoms and stress you are under sounds more like increasing the dosage might be more appropriate.  Or if the effexor is pooping out on you, switching to another AD drug like Welbutrin.. And with all that stress you’re under, don’t forget that alcohol can  worsen depression. And if you do try to stop the Effexor, remember to do it SLOWLY!!  Take several weeks at least.  The withdrawal symptoms can worsen fatigue if you don’t go slowly. i don’t want to fall down further.   i can’t, i won’t want to get back up.

Just remember that it does and WILL get better.  Not as quickly as any sufferer of depression would like, but it DOES get better.  So hang in there and keep fighting. Bruce.

Response:

I don’t blame you for not wanting to go off the Effexor. I have Addison’s Disease, and I don’t know where I’d be without Effexor. I tried Celexa before, which didn’t work at all. At this point I’m considering switching to something different, but I’m not sure if that’s a good idea. My depression has got much worse in recent months, so perhaps changing drugs is not the right way… What is your dosage? I’m on 150mg/day… Sincerely, Daniel in Tulsa

Response:

hello… and thank you for your kind words.  sorry i can’t reply to each of your messages individually, but i lost your posts when i upgraded to explorer 6 last night.  it was so nice to see so many names i recognized~ rj, bruce, ed p, cindi– she’s back  – and nice to meet jim. things have slowly deteriorating health wise for me… nothing deadly like cancer — i just feel dead.  i think my metabolism is running on empty. after a slew of testing nothing has been found yet…  i am so disgusted.  all i know is, if this is how it feels to be 46 i’d rather be dead.   now, my doctor wants to take me off the effexor to see if it is the problem… i have already slipped backwards because of all this and new financial problems created by my ex— i am scared to death to go off the effexor. i don’t want to fall down further.   i can’t, i won’t want to get back up. — ~i’m so popular ’round here i’ve forgotten my own name~ ASD Birthday Pages<http://www.geocities.com/asdbday/ April Love Pages <http://www.geocities.com/Broadway/Booth/9337/

Response:

Question:

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

Response:

Question:

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

Response:

Question:

A new study found that patient complaints of sexual dysfunction caused by antidepressants are almost two times greater than believed by physicians, according to a report presented at the American Psychiatric Association’s annual meeting. Researchers studied 6,297 patients enrolled at 1,101 primary care offices throughout the U.S. and evaluated 10 different new generation antidepressants. Although selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norephinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are associated with a higher rate of sexual dysfunction, newer antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nefazodone have shown a lower incidence of the problem. "The SSRIs are known to cause sexual dysfunction as a side effect, but until now, there hasn’t been a study to look at all the new generation antidepressants to see how they compare," said Dr. Anita Clayton, associate professor and vice chair of the Department of Psychiatric Medicine at the University of Virginia and lead investigator of the study. "Physicians and patients are generally reluctant to talk about sexual problems. Therefore, physicians often underestimate the prevalence of antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction and the impact on patients, as shown in this study." Wellbutrin SR (bupropion HCI) Sustained-Release was associated with the lowest rate of sexual dysfunction (25 percent) after Wellbutrin (bupropion HCI) (22 percent), compared with an average of 40 percent with the SSRIs venlafaxine (Effexor) and mirtazapine (Remeron). The prevalence rate of sexual dysfunction ranged from 7 percent of patients receiving Wellbutrin SR to 23 to 30 percent for patients receiving the other antidepressants, including fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa) and venlafaxine XR. This article is brought to you by the "Depression Week" online newsletter. This newletter presents the latest news and views on developments in Depression, it is one of a family of specialized medical newsletters brought to you by Medical Week, LLC. http://www.depressionweek.org/

Response:

I went on 50mgd Zoloft 3 monthes ago and it has helped me.  Before I went on I had no energy of any kind, sexual or otherwise.  Now I’m back to my oldself.  I guess it just depends upon the person. —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

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:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – snipped Welcome to anx/pan Robb! Opps Rony made a boo boo : Welcome to ASAP snipped Rony. Thats what happens when you get addicted to #anx/pan Rony, it takes over your life to the extent that everywhere seems like its #anx/pan. Some fiendish plot of Jon’s to take over the world I suspect!!!! <VBG Ian Gosh! i really should get out more )

Ian, I think we should ALL get out more. Karen

Response:

Welcome to ASAP Robb. You will find a lot of supportive  and experienced people here to help you through this. Hello All,    My name is Robb and I am new to this group. I am a 26 year old male who has just recently been diagnosed with panic disorder. About a month ago I was sitting at work listening to some music and writing code (I am a Webmaster for a marketing firm) when all of a sudden I went numb. My heart started pounding so hard it hurt, I got nauseated, dizzy, and started shaking. The worst part was my mind lost its sense of reality. At that exact point in time, all I could remember is wanting "out". I do believe that was a strong suicidal flash.

This may have been a panic attack, as they can cause all of the symptoms listed above. The feelings can certainly be overwhelming.    From reading the rest of the posts in here, I can see I’m not alone. This syndrome has bothered me because in life, I’m the one people go to when everything falls apart. I’ve always been the solid one, the one who is in control all the time. The PA’s have changed all that. Now I fear doing many of the things that I used to enjoy because I might have an attack.    I hate to complain about my medical insurance since my company pays for it 100%, but it is an HMO, so I still haven’t been to see a psychologist. I have been to counseling and have seen my physician who has me on Xanax and Zoloft. The only thing the Xanax does for me is make me groggy, but many times that’s enough. I have no idea if the Zoloft is doing anything. I hope when I see the psychologist next month he will be able to determine the correct medication to help this along.

You may want to see a psychiatrist specializing in anxiety disorders, being you are already on medication. How long have you been taking Xanax and Zoloft, and what doses? The grogginess may soon wear off, your body needs to adjust to the med. It does sound like Xanax is already helping, give both meds some time to work fully.  I HATE drugs, especially anything that makes me feel disconnected, but in contrast to the panic attacks, I’ll deal with them for the time being.    Ok, this will be enough for my first posting. I just wanted to say thank you to all of you out there who’s stories I’ve read. Although the severity of these attacks have lessened over the past month, they still bother me. However, I find it comforting to know that I am not "going crazy" and that this is truly problem with physical roots as well. Robb

Most of us feel the way you do, we don’t like taking meds. But given the choice between PA’s and taking the meds, it’s an easy choice. You certainly aren’t going crazy, although panic can make it seem that way. Let us know how you progress. Ray Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it – even if I have said it – unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense.

Response:

writes – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – snipped Welcome to anx/pan Robb! Opps Rony made a boo boo : Welcome to ASAP snipped Rony. Thats what happens when you get addicted to #anx/pan Rony, it takes over your life to the extent that everywhere seems like its #anx/pan. Some fiendish plot of Jon’s to take over the world I suspect!!!! <VBG Ian

Curses – I am undone — Jon Guite When replying by email, please remove the trailing x from my return address

Response:

I am also a new member. For years ,,I felt very stressed and anxious but no name/diagnosis was really given. Then I married….a wonderful man and we had 2 childred. While in my 30’s he died suddenly (he was same age) of a heart attack. A month to the day later my Mother died suddenly. Two weeks after that,,,my son almost lost his eye,,and had permanent damage as well as severe bleeding from incident. i  had started a new job (was not working prior) A year later I had a major car accident. A few years later I wound up in the hospital for a month with severe asthma and major meds. The doctor (pulmonary specialist) felt that the asthma was worsened from "stuffed symptons" so to speak. He put me on an antidepressant. Then I went off that. A few years later my heart started to race and I felt nervous. The MD prescribed Verapamil which helped a bit. Now,,,,I have a stressful job,,(one I am not fond of anymore. I seem to start worrying over things and can’t stop. Kind of obsessing. I went to Dr and he upped dosage of Verapamil to 240 mg a day,,and gave me a prescription for Lorazepam….1//2 to 1 mg daily  "as needed" I feel good but sometimes drowsy. I need to concentrate on my job. I have an HMO and right now a psychiatrist is not an option. My son is 23,,,and believe he has OCD. BUt he refuses to take medication. SO SORRY for this long post. I don’t have panic per se,,,thank GOd I can go places without panicking,,but have this anxiety a lot but not all the time. i had gone to a pychologist before (with other insurance) In the past several doctors advised me that I had to learn to cope with my stress and of course having gone thru what I did it was normal. I don’t know why I was not diagosed before. I am now 50 and feel that I felt anxious for years when I need not have been. I can’t change the past,,,but am wondering if Lorazepam helps,,should I keep taking it? Worried about long lasting problems. Thanks again,,I guess I must have gen anxiety disorder though dr did not give it a name. Can this be worsened by the events I went thru and why 13 years later,,,are things getting worse? Thanks for listening,,,and again sorry for this long post which I hope you can make sense out of. Best to all  Linda

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – snipped Welcome to anx/pan Robb! Opps Rony made a boo boo : Welcome to ASAP snipped Rony. Thats what happens when you get addicted to #anx/pan Rony, it takes over your life to the extent that everywhere seems like its #anx/pan. Some fiendish plot of Jon’s to take over the world I suspect!!!! <VBG Ian

ROFL!! Hi Ian! Hope you are doing well! Steph

Response:

snipped Thats what happens when you get addicted to #anx/pan Rony, it takes over your life to the extent that everywhere seems like its #anx/pan. Some fiendish plot of Jon’s to take over the world I suspect!!!! <VBG Ian ROFL!! Hi Ian! Hope you are doing well! Steph

Yep, I’m doing okay,  thanks for asking.  :-) Ian

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am also a new member. For years ,,I felt very stressed and anxious but no name/diagnosis was really given. Then I married….a wonderful man and we had 2 childred. While in my 30’s he died suddenly (he was same age) of a heart attack. A month to the day later my Mother died suddenly. Two weeks after that,,,my son almost lost his eye,,and had permanent damage as well as severe bleeding from incident. i  had started a new job (was not working prior) A year later I had a major car accident. A few years later I wound up in the hospital for a month with severe asthma and major meds. The doctor (pulmonary specialist) felt that the asthma was worsened from "stuffed symptons" so to speak. He put me on an antidepressant. Then I went off that. A few years later my heart started to race and I felt nervous. The MD prescribed Verapamil which helped a bit. Now,,,,I have a stressful job,,(one I am not fond of anymore. I seem to start worrying over things and can’t stop. Kind of obsessing. I went to Dr and he upped dosage of Verapamil to 240 mg a day,,and gave me a prescription for Lorazepam….1//2 to 1 mg daily  "as needed" I feel good but sometimes drowsy. I need to concentrate on my job. I have an HMO and right now a psychiatrist is not an option. My son is 23,,,and believe he has OCD. BUt he refuses to take medication. SO SORRY for this long post. I don’t have panic per se,,,thank GOd I can go places without panicking,,but have this anxiety a lot but not all the time. i had gone to a pychologist before (with other insurance) In the past several doctors advised me that I had to learn to cope with my stress and of course having gone thru what I did it was normal. I don’t know why I was not diagosed before. I am now 50 and feel that I felt anxious for years when I need not have been. I can’t change the past,,,but am wondering if Lorazepam helps,,should I keep taking it? Worried about long lasting problems. Thanks again,,I guess I must have gen anxiety disorder though dr did not give it a name. Can this be worsened by the events I went thru and why 13 years later,,,are things getting worse? Thanks for listening,,,and again sorry for this long post which I hope you can make sense out of. Best to all  Linda

Hi Linda and welcome to ASAP! You’ve been through a lot – too much really and I’m sorry about that. An anxiety disorder can manifest itself any time although the risk gets smaller with age after a certain age. But then it seems you’ve been doping with anxiety for years now and yes, there may come a time when taking meds is sensible and that time may well be now. I think you may suffer from GAD with OCD-overtones but nobody – let alone non-professionals like us here – can diagnose someone else over the net. Wouldn’t it be possible to see a psychiatrist specialized in anxiety disorders in a program with gliding scales or something like that? I feel it’s important to be properly diagnosed and then get prescribed the relevant med(s). In the meatime I wonder why you’re taking *Verapramil* fopr anxiety for which it is, as a calcium blocker used for hypertension and certain cardiac problems, not a first choice med at all. A benzo like lorazepam may work. If it doesn’t you might want to try Xanax (alprazolam). You will bezome dependent on benzos when taking them for a longer period but this just means that if and when you decide to stop taking them you’ll have to do a slow taper in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Benzos have been life-savers for many GAD and PD-sufferer. I think the proof is in the pudding. *If it works, it works*. NBut you should see to it that you’re not undermedicated. 1/2 to 1 mgs of lorazepam may be fine to take *as needed* but if you’re experience anxiety all the time you might be better off on a regular dose and as lorazepam (the same goes for Xanax) is a short acting benzo you would need to take it three times a day or so. I hope it will help you, you are entitled to some peace of mind…. Philip

Response:

Hello All,     My name is Robb and I am new to this group. I am a 26 year old male who has just recently been diagnosed with panic disorder. About a month ago I was sitting at work listening to some music and writing code (I am a Webmaster for a marketing firm) when all of a sudden I went numb. My heart started pounding so hard it hurt, I got nauseated, dizzy, and started shaking. The worst part was my mind lost its sense of reality. At that exact point in time, all I could remember is wanting "out". I do believe that was a strong suicidal flash.     From reading the rest of the posts in here, I can see I’m not alone. This syndrome has bothered me because in life, I’m the one people go to when everything falls apart. I’ve always been the solid one, the one who is in control all the time. The PA’s have changed all that. Now I fear doing many of the things that I used to enjoy because I might have an attack.     I hate to complain about my medical insurance since my company pays for it 100%, but it is an HMO, so I still haven’t been to see a psychologist. I have been to counseling and have seen my physician who has me on Xanax and Zoloft. The only thing the Xanax does for me is make me groggy, but many times that’s enough. I have no idea if the Zoloft is doing anything. I hope when I see the psychologist next month he will be able to determine the correct medication to help this along. I HATE drugs, especially anything that makes me feel disconnected, but in contrast to the panic attacks, I’ll deal with them for the time being.     Ok, this will be enough for my first posting. I just wanted to say thank you to all of you out there who’s stories I’ve read. Although the severity of these attacks have lessened over the past month, they still bother me. However, I find it comforting to know that I am not "going crazy" and that this is truly problem with physical roots as well. Robb

Response:

Hi Robb,

Welcome to ASAP.  You have come to a place where you will meet, so to speak, people who are dealing with the same issues as you.  Please feel free to post as often as you feel the need.  There are quite a few well informed people in this NG that are a great help and inspiration to all of us.  Once again, welcome..smile. Mary Kay – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hello All,    My name is Robb and I am new to this group. I am a 26 year old male who has just recently been diagnosed with panic disorder. About a month ago I was sitting at work listening to some music and writing code (I am a Webmaster for a marketing firm) when all of a sudden I went numb. My heart started pounding so hard it hurt, I got nauseated, dizzy, and started shaking. The worst part was my mind lost its sense of reality. At that exact point in time, all I could remember is wanting "out". I do believe that was a strong suicidal flash.    From reading the rest of the posts in here, I can see I’m not alone. This syndrome has bothered me because in life, I’m the one people go to when everything falls apart. I’ve always been the solid one, the one who is in control all the time. The PA’s have changed all that. Now I fear doing many of the things that I used to enjoy because I might have an attack.    I hate to complain about my medical insurance since my company pays for it 100%, but it is an HMO, so I still haven’t been to see a psychologist. I have been to counseling and have seen my physician who has me on Xanax and Zoloft. The only thing the Xanax does for me is make me groggy, but many times that’s enough. I have no idea if the Zoloft is doing anything. I hope when I see the psychologist next month he will be able to determine the correct medication to help this along. I HATE drugs, especially anything that makes me feel disconnected, but in contrast to the panic attacks, I’ll deal with them for the time being.    Ok, this will be enough for my first posting. I just wanted to say thank you to all of you out there who’s stories I’ve read. Although the severity of these attacks have lessened over the past month, they still bother me. However, I find it comforting to know that I am not "going crazy" and that this is truly problem with physical roots as well. Robb

Response:

The only thing the Xanax does for me is make me groggy, but many times that’s enough. I have no idea if the Zoloft is doing anything. I hope when I see the psychologist next month he will be able to determine the correct medication to help this along.

Robb, You didn’t mention if your doctor said anything, so I’ll just add that the Zoloft will take several weeks to have any effect.   If it’s a psychologist you’re seeing, but not a psychiatrist, the psychologist will not be able to prescribe drugs but if s/he has experience in panic/anxiety s/he will be aware of what drugs are out there and how they are used and to what effect.  In the meantime, don’t give up on the drugs simply because you are anti-drug.  (Like another poster said, you wouldn’t refuse insulin if you were diabetic would you?)  Give the Zoloft time to have an effect.  Best of luck.

Response:

I get the psychiatrist / psychologist thing messed up all the time. I meant psychiatrist. And I’ve done tons of research through the web about the Zoloft and realize it can take up to 6 weeks to have any effect. Sorry about being dense – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You didn’t mention if your doctor said anything, so I’ll just add that the Zoloft will take several weeks to have any effect. If it’s a psychologist you’re seeing, but not a psychiatrist, the psychologist will not be able to prescribe drugs but if s/he has experience in panic/anxiety s/he will be aware of what drugs are out there and how they are used and to what effect.  In the meantime, don’t give up on the drugs simply because you are anti-drug.  (Like another poster said, you wouldn’t refuse insulin if you were diabetic would you?)  Give the Zoloft time to have an effect.  Best of luck.

Response:

Hello All,    My name is Robb and I am new to this group. I am a 26 year old male who has just recently been diagnosed with panic disorder.

<snip . My heart started pounding so hard it hurt, I got nauseated, dizzy, and started shaking. The worst part was my mind lost its sense of reality.

<snip Sounds like you had a derealization episoide too …. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    From reading the rest of the posts in here, I can see I’m not alone. This syndrome has bothered me because in life, I’m the one people go to when everything falls apart. I’ve always been the solid one, the one who is in control all the time. The PA’s have changed all that. Now I fear doing many of the things that I used to enjoy because I might have an attack.    I hate to complain about my medical insurance since my company pays for it 100%, but it is an HMO, so I still haven’t been to see a psychologist. I have been to counseling and have seen my physician who has me on Xanax and Zoloft. The only thing the Xanax does for me is make me groggy, but many times that’s enough. I have no idea if the Zoloft is doing anything. I hope when I see the psychologist next month he will be able to determine the correct medication to help this along. I HATE drugs, especially anything that makes me feel disconnected, but in contrast to the panic attacks, I’ll deal with them for the time being.    Ok, this will be enough for my first posting. I just wanted to say thank you to all of you out there who’s stories I’ve read. Although the severity of these attacks have lessened over the past month, they still bother me. However, I find it comforting to know that I am not "going crazy" and that this is truly problem with physical roots as well. Robb

Welcome to anx/pan Robb! give the Zolfot a chance , it can take a while to take effect, so hang in there. And yes your right you are not going crazy!. Please let us know how you get on with the meds, i’m sure you wi ll be feeling some relief before long ) Rony. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello All,    My name is Robb and I am new to this group. I am a 26 year old male who has just recently been diagnosed with panic disorder. <snip . My heart started pounding so hard it hurt, I got nauseated, dizzy, and started shaking. The worst part was my mind lost its sense of reality. <snip Sounds like you had a derealization episoide too ….    From reading the rest of the posts in here, I can see I’m not alone. This syndrome has bothered me because in life, I’m the one people go to when everything falls apart. I’ve always been the solid one, the one who is in control all the time. The PA’s have changed all that. Now I fear doing many of the things that I used to enjoy because I might have an attack.    I hate to complain about my medical insurance since my company pays for it 100%, but it is an HMO, so I still haven’t been to see a psychologist. I have been to counseling and have seen my physician who has me on Xanax and Zoloft. The only thing the Xanax does for me is make me groggy, but many times that’s enough. I have no idea if the Zoloft is doing anything. I hope when I see the psychologist next month he will be able to determine the correct medication to help this along. I HATE drugs, especially anything that makes me feel disconnected, but in contrast to the panic attacks, I’ll deal with them for the time being.    Ok, this will be enough for my first posting. I just wanted to say thank you to all of you out there who’s stories I’ve read. Although the severity of these attacks have lessened over the past month, they still bother me. However, I find it comforting to know that I am not "going crazy" and that this is truly problem with physical roots as well. Robb Welcome to anx/pan Robb!

Opps Rony made a boo boo : Welcome to ASAP give the Zolfot a chance , i

t can take a while to take effect, so hang in there. And yes your right you are not going crazy!. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Please let us know how you get on with the meds, i’m sure you wi ll be feeling some relief before long ) Rony.

Response:

Hi Rob, welcome to ASAP, Your story isn’t all that uncommon, nor is the fact that you are a computer geek  We seem to have a disproportionately high number of comp wizards here (probably some so far undocumented Microsoft bug IMO). And most of us were the bedrock that others clung to in times of crisis. It can be a really weird disorder that way, hitting you where you thought you were strongest!!!!  Go figure!!!   Good luck Ian – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    My name is Robb and I am new to this group. I am a 26 year old male who has just recently been diagnosed with panic disorder. About a month ago I was sitting at work listening to some music and writing code (I am a Webmaster for a marketing firm) when all of a sudden I went numb. My heart started pounding so hard it hurt, I got nauseated, dizzy, and started shaking. The worst part was my mind lost its sense of reality. At that exact point in time, all I could remember is wanting "out". I do believe that was a strong suicidal flash.    From reading the rest of the posts in here, I can see I’m not alone. This syndrome has bothered me because in life, I’m the one people go to when everything falls apart. I’ve always been the solid one, the one who is in control all the time. The PA’s have changed all that. Now I fear doing many of the things that I used to enjoy because I might have an attack.    I hate to complain about my medical insurance since my company pays for it 100%, but it is an HMO, so I still haven’t been to see a psychologist. I have been to counseling and have seen my physician who has me on Xanax and Zoloft. The only thing the Xanax does for me is make me groggy, but many times that’s enough. I have no idea if the Zoloft is doing anything. I hope when I see the psychologist next month he will be able to determine the correct medication to help this along. I HATE drugs, especially anything that makes me feel disconnected, but in contrast to the panic attacks, I’ll deal with them for the time being.    Ok, this will be enough for my first posting. I just wanted to say thank you to all of you out there who’s stories I’ve read. Although the severity of these attacks have lessened over the past month, they still bother me. However, I find it comforting to know that I am not "going crazy" and that this is truly problem with physical roots as well. Robb

Response:

snipped Welcome to anx/pan Robb! Opps Rony made a boo boo : Welcome to ASAP snipped Rony.

Thats what happens when you get addicted to #anx/pan Rony, it takes over your life to the extent that everywhere seems like its #anx/pan. Some fiendish plot of Jon’s to take over the world I suspect!!!! <VBG Ian

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – snipped Welcome to anx/pan Robb! Opps Rony made a boo boo : Welcome to ASAP snipped Rony. Thats what happens when you get addicted to #anx/pan Rony, it takes over your life to the extent that everywhere seems like its #anx/pan. Some fiendish plot of Jon’s to take over the world I suspect!!!! <VBG Ian

Gosh! i really should get out more )

Response:

Question:

i was taking Paxil for about 1.5 yrs and my doctor recently switched me to effexor.  i immediately began experiencing GAD symptoms (i was diagnosed with panic disorder before being diagnosed with depression; they put me on xanax for a while before paxil) and i find it absolutely unbearable.  should i try combining maybe xanax or klonopin with th effexor or should I find a new drug like serzone or traxodone?  ive been struggling for years to find an antidepressant that works for me and i am desparate for any info.  thanks

Response:

I was on Effexor for about five weeks.  The Effexor really did not do anything for me.  I felt anxious all the time.  I finally went to the doctor and demanded that he change my prescription.  I am on Prozac 20mg/day plus Ativan 2mg at night. JP – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i was taking Paxil for about 1.5 yrs and my doctor recently switched me to effexor.  i immediately began experiencing GAD symptoms (i was diagnosed with panic disorder before being diagnosed with depression; they put me on xanax for a while before paxil) and i find it absolutely unbearable.  should i try combining maybe xanax or klonopin with th effexor or should I find a new drug like serzone or traxodone?  ive been struggling for years to find an antidepressant that works for me and i am desparate for any info.  thanks

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – In some people SSRI’s can increase anxiety. Where TCA’s and MOAI’s do not. YMMV Tim I beg to differ. TCA’s as a rule do increase symptoms in the first weeks as well. With most SRI’s it’s the same and in both cases this is of a passing nature. I don’t really know about MAOI’s. Philip

When I first went on a TCA I could hardly do anything for about 4 days except fall asleep. I was trying to get my act together to complain to the Doctor about this, when it suddenly cleared up. YYMV of course. — Jon Guite When replying by email, please remove the trailing x from my return address

Response:

In some people SSRI’s can increase anxiety. Where TCA’s and MOAI’s do not. YMMV Tim

I beg to differ. TCA’s as a rule do increase symptoms in the first weeks as well. With most SRI’s it’s the same and in both cases this is of a passing nature. I don’t really know about MAOI’s. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i was taking Paxil for about 1.5 yrs and my doctor recently switched me to effexor.  i immediately began experiencing GAD symptoms (i was diagnosed with panic disorder before being diagnosed with depression; they put me on xanax for a while before paxil) and i find it absolutely unbearable.  should i try combining maybe xanax or klonopin with th effexor or should I find a new drug like serzone or traxodone?  ive been struggling for years to find an antidepressant that works for me and i am desparate for any info.  thanks — Friends, don’t let friends eat haggis.

Response:

Hi.  I was on Klonopin and Effexor at once before.  I was also on two other crappy meds, so It is hard to judge.  Effexor did a lot for my depression at first, but after about 3 months, it really didn’t have any effect.  I was on 175mg, about go on 300 when I switched to Parnate-an MAO.  It has *Really* helped my depression a lot.  It has also improved my anxiety.  Klonopin also improved my anxiety, but I was a zombie and had a hard time getting up and functioning.  Good luck. i was taking Paxil for about 1.5 yrs and my doctor recently switched me to effexor.  i immediately began experiencing GAD symptoms (i was diagnosed with panic disorder before being diagnosed with depression; they put me on xanax for a while before paxil) and i find it absolutely unbearable.  should i try combining maybe xanax or klonopin with th effexor or should I find a new drug like serzone or traxodone?  ive been struggling for years to find an antidepressant that works for me and i am desparate for any info.  thanks

Response:

According to the literature I got w/my prescrip of effexor ANXIETY is one of the possible side-effects of effexor. Other possible side-effects include: dizziness, nausea, dry mouth and rapid heartbeat. I’ve experiences all of the side effects except dizziness. I cut my effexor tablets in half now and the more severe side-effects have vanished. Doug

Response:

In some people SSRI’s can increase anxiety. Where TCA’s and MOAI’s do not. YMMV Tim i was taking Paxil for about 1.5 yrs and my doctor recently switched me to effexor.  i immediately began experiencing GAD symptoms (i was diagnosed with panic disorder before being diagnosed with depression; they put me on xanax for a while before paxil) and i find it absolutely unbearable.  should i try combining maybe xanax or klonopin with th effexor or should I find a new drug like serzone or traxodone?  ive been struggling for years to find an antidepressant that works for me and i am desparate for any info.  thanks

– Friends, don’t let friends eat haggis.

Response:

i was taking Paxil for about 1.5 yrs and my doctor recently switched me to effexor.  i immediately began experiencing GAD symptoms (i was diagnosed with panic disorder before being diagnosed with depression; they put me on xanax for a while before paxil) and i find it absolutely unbearable.  should i try combining maybe xanax or klonopin with th effexor or should I find a new drug like serzone or traxodone?  ive been struggling for years to find an antidepressant that works for me and i am desparate for any info.  thanks

Why did you go off Paxil? Which AD’s did you try? I wouldn’t take Klonopin if I were you as this is contra-indicated for people suffering from depression. Xanax, however, has a slight antidepressant component of its own. Have you tried a TCA? Trazodone is not a good anti-anxiety med. I always thought Serzone wasn’t either, unless combined with Xanax, but lately quite some people here have reported good results. If you tried the other options this might be a med for you to try now. It enhances the effect of Xanax which means that you can take less Xanax than you weuld normally do and maybe you can have longer breaks in between doses. Let no-one tell you that Serzone/Xanax is a bad combo because it isn’t if prescribed and used in the right way. Of course there are still the MAOI’s to consider which seem the most effective meds but have other disadvantages. Please let us know how you carry on! Philip

Response:

Question:

  I just changed my 9 yr old son’s dr…..he was on 75mg luvox and 1-1/2 mg risperdal for OCD/ADD/anxiety.    The meds were great for a few months but then it seemed he needed to change (had alot of tantrums, frustration, very impulsive etc) and the old doc wasn’t cooperative and very hard to talk to. Went yesterday to a new one and she changed him from Luvox to Zoloft (we’re reducing Luvox for a week and slowly adding Zoloft).  Also she split up the Risperdal so he takes some in the morning and some at night instead of all at once.  I hope the Zoloft works for him.  Does anyone have any comments about any of these meds, specifically for children?  Thank you Debbie

Response:

  I just changed my 9 yr old son’s dr…..he was on 75mg luvox and 1-1/2 mg risperdal for OCD/ADD/anxiety.    The meds were great for a few months but then it seemed he needed to change (had alot of tantrums, frustration, very impulsive etc) and the old doc wasn’t cooperative and very hard to talk to. Went yesterday to a new one and she changed him from Luvox to Zoloft (we’re reducing Luvox for a week and slowly adding Zoloft).  Also she split up the Risperdal so he takes some in the morning and some at night instead of all at once.  I hope the Zoloft works for him.  Does anyone have any comments about any of these meds, specifically for children?  Thank you Debbie

Sounds like your child is in good hands now. However, no-one wants to do research on the use of psych meds in children and pregnant women, so how these meds are used in these specific patient populations is taken from research done on nonpregnant adults. Chip Before you buy.

Response:

Hello everyone!! just wondering if anyone had this happen to them.  My doc put me on zoloft started at 12 1/2mg for a week then 25mg for 2 weeks then 50mg when i started taking the 50mg it made my heart flutter, so she put me back on 25mg again but it is not doing much for me now she wants me to try the 50mg again and i am scared she said try 25 in the morning then 25mg at night i am scared to do that also any suggestions? I just didnt like my heart doing that and i am scared it is going to happen again HELP Thanks Diana

I must say that your doc isn’t doing this as badly as some other docs do. She realizes that you have to wean on Zoloft slowly and that’s a good thing. Still, between 25 mg and 50 mg there is 37,5 mg. I think it’s advisable to try that first. Moreover it seems advisable to ask for a benzo (Xanax) on the side *as needed* which may help avoid or minimize initial Zoloft side effects like a fluttering heart. I hope you will hang in there as it takes about 8 weeks to be able to properly assess Zoloft’s value for you (but beneficial effect may be felt much earlier). Philip

Response:

Hello everyone!! just wondering if anyone had this happen to them.  My doc put me on zoloft started at 12 1/2mg for a week then 25mg for 2 weeks then 50mg when i started taking the 50mg it made my heart flutter, so she put me back on 25mg again but it is not doing much for me now she wants me to try the 50mg again and i am scared she said try 25 in the morning then 25mg at night i am scared to do that also any suggestions? I just didnt like my heart doing that and i am scared it is going to happen again HELP Thanks Diana

Diana –   I experienced a return of side-effects for a few days with each increased dose of Zoloft…One side effect for me was the shakes, which increased my anxiety and led to a racing heart…I suspect that you perhaps are having a similar experience…You may have to go through a few days of side-effects like this to reach a theraputic dose…And I checked the PDR, heart attack is not listed as a possible side-effect of Zoloft so don’t worry! Later, — Charles Phipps

Response:

WOW!!  My Dr. started me off at 50mg right away..he did not work me up to 50mg..At any rate I had NO side effects at all from Zoloft.. ~But there’s one thing I know…the blues they send to meet me won’t defeat me, it won’t be long till happiness is out to greet me~

Response:

Hello everyone!! just wondering if anyone had this happen to them.  My doc put me on zoloft started at 12 1/2mg for a week then 25mg for 2 weeks then 50mg when i started taking the 50mg it made my heart flutter, so she put me back on 25mg again but it is not doing much for me now she wants me to try the 50mg again and i am scared she said try 25 in the morning then 25mg at night i am scared to do that also any suggestions? I just didnt like my heart doing that and i am scared it is going to happen again HELP Thanks Diana

Response:

Hello everyone!! just wondering if anyone had this happen to them.  My doc put me on zoloft started at 12 1/2mg for a week then 25mg for 2 weeks then 50mg when i started taking the 50mg it made my heart flutter, so she put me back on 25mg again but it is not doing much for me now she wants me to try the 50mg again and i am scared she said try 25 in the morning then 25mg at night i am scared to do that also any suggestions? I just didnt like my heart doing that and i am scared it is going to happen again HELP Thanks Diana

Hi Diana, I have been dealing with those heart flutters on and off for years. I get mine when I am anxious, drink too much coffee, and have PMS. I don`t like them, but they are harmless. You won`t know if you will get  those flutters, unless you try the 50mgs again. There may be a way to lessen that possibility. Instead of going from 25mgs to 50mgs, go to 37.5mgs. Getting to your prescribed dose is not a race. You want to be as comfortable as possible, and if it means going at a slower pace, so then be it. Watch your caffeine consumption too, it can trigger the heart flutters. And if you should get them , remember they will pass and are harmless. Asking your doctor for a benzo might help too. Jackie "Behold the turtle. He makes progress only when he sticks out his head."

Response:

I was started on 25mg of zoloft daily about two weeks ago for anxiety and panic disorder.  The first few days I took it I had some crazy mood swings but those went away after a while.  Lately I’ve had two episodes of depression that I wonder about.  I know that most side effects are supposed to go away but is this something I should talk to my doctor about immediately or should I just try to tough it out and hope that it goes away.  So far it’s been pretty bearable so I think I could get through it.  Any comments on this would be appreciated and any information on zoloft in general would be great.

15 mg if Zoloft is a subtherapeutic dose, it must be raised. The best way to do that is by weekly increments of 12.5 mg to avoid unpleasant side effects: *start low, go slow*. It may take a few weeks but your depression should disappear. So yes, ask your doctor to raise the dose 37.5 mg etc. Philip

Response:

Hi, Jack, I take Zoloft and Clonazepam for depression and anxiety.  25 mg is low so maybe you could call your pdoc and see about a slight increase.  It never hurts to check in with your pdoc and let them know how you are feeling. smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was started on 25mg of zoloft daily about two weeks ago for anxiety and panic disorder.  The first few days I took it I had some crazy mood swings but those went away after a while.  Lately I’ve had two episodes of depression that I wonder about.  I know that most side effects are supposed to go away but is this something I should talk to my doctor about immediately or should I just try to tough it out and hope that it goes away.  So far it’s been pretty bearable so I think I could get through it.  Any comments on this would be appreciated and any information on zoloft in general would be great.

Response:

I was started on 25mg of zoloft daily about two weeks ago for anxiety and panic disorder.  The first few days I took it I had some crazy mood swings but those went away after a while.  Lately I’ve had two episodes of depression that I wonder about.  I know that most side effects are supposed to go away but is this something I should talk to my doctor about immediately or should I just try to tough it out and hope that it goes away.  So far it’s been pretty bearable so I think I could get through it.  Any comments on this would be appreciated and any information on zoloft in general would be great.

Response:

Hi I have often had tinitus.  On and off.  The doctor once gave me a long story about how it was just a disease.  Its been quite bad lately and I found out in the last few weeks maybe from this newsgroup ( if so I apologize ) that it is caused by aspirin. I have been taking lots of painkillers to help with paxil withdrawals love Moira – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I took Zoloft last fall for anxiety for 2 and 1/2 months. (I got off it because it began to give me night tremors).  However, only after a month on it, my ears started ringing/hissing.  I also had a bad sinus infection at the time and I assumed it was related to that, never thinking the medication would do such a thing (HA–looks like the joke was on me!).  When I related this to my doctor, she never let on that she KNEW some antidepressants caused tinnitus (why not, I am now asking myself) and continued to let me take the drug for 6 more weeks! I’ve been off the Zoloft for 6 weeks now, and I STILL have the ringing/hissing in my ears.  Has anyone ever had this happen?  Is this EVER going to go away?. It drives you crazy and I fear now I’ll have it forever.

Response:

Hi I have often had tinitus.  On and off.  The doctor once gave me a long story

about how it was just a disease.  Its been quite bad lately and I found out

in the last few weeks maybe from this newsgroup ( if so I apologize ) that it is caused by

aspirin. I have been taking lots of painkillers to help with paxil withdrawals

love Moira   Hi Moira, You say you are taking painkillers… what kind?  I have taken many, many different kinds (due to my headaches) and found that Midrin effected my ears horribly.  Could be an additional cause.. Lee feeling silly lately…must be a side effect

Response:

I took Zoloft last fall for anxiety for 2 and 1/2 months. (I got off it because it began to give me night tremors).  However, only after a month on it, my ears started ringing/hissing.  I also had a bad sinus infection at the time and I assumed it was related to that, never thinking the medication would do such a thing (HA–looks like the joke was on me!).  When I related this to my doctor, she never let on that she KNEW some antidepressants caused tinnitus (why not, I am now asking myself) and continued to let me take the drug for 6 more weeks! I’ve been off the Zoloft for 6 weeks now, and I STILL have the ringing/hissing in my ears.  Has anyone ever had this happen?  Is this EVER going to go away?. It drives you crazy and I fear now I’ll have it forever.

For what it’s worth, I, too, suffered from tinnitus while on Zoloft (for a similar period of time as you) before switching to Prozac.  In my case, the tinnitus went away within days of stopping Zoloft.  I wouldn’t give up hope that yours will fade with time too. Good luck, Bob

Response:

I’ve been off the Zoloft for 6 weeks now, and I STILL have the ringing/hissing in my ears.  Has anyone ever had this happen?  Is this EVER going to go away?. It drives you crazy and I fear now I’ll have it forever.

For what it’s worth, I, too, suffered from tinnitus while on Zoloft (for

a similar period of time as you) before switching to Prozac.  In my

case, the tinnitus went away within days of stopping Zoloft.  I wouldn’t

give up hope that yours will fade with time too.  (piggybacking on Bob)  I had a similar problem with a different med altogether.  I think it was Midrin.  It went away for the most part.  It still happens occasionally, but not on a constant basis.   If it keeps up, you should mention it to your doctor, or go to a specialist. Lee feeling silly lately…must be a side effect

Response:

I took Zoloft last fall for anxiety for 2 and 1/2 months. (I got off it because it began to give me night tremors).  However, only after a month on it, my ears started ringing/hissing.  I also had a bad sinus infection at the time and I assumed it was related to that, never thinking the medication would do such a thing (HA–looks like the joke was on me!).  When I related this to my doctor, she never let on that she KNEW some antidepressants caused tinnitus (why not, I am now asking myself) and continued to let me take the drug for 6 more weeks!   I’ve been off the Zoloft for 6 weeks now, and I STILL have the ringing/hissing in my ears.  Has anyone ever had this happen?  Is this EVER going to go away?. It drives you crazy and I fear now I’ll have it forever.  

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Tom,     Welcome to ASAP. I’m 21 and diagnosed with manic depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ocd.. and now I’m beginning to wonder about something else, but anyways, the reason for your post and mine.     I’ve been on Zoloft since mid-October. I started on 25mg, two weeks later increased to 50mg, and then two weeks after that 100mg. I finally gained some control over my "problems." I was taken off Zoloft and put on Celexa for a 6 week rollercoaster. I’m back on the Zoloft, and have been since February. I’m up to 200mg a day.     Now, I have little side effects. In the beginning I had a lot of side effects, those you listed, extreme dry mouth, but not the rash and I still have a hard time getting out of bed at a decent hour, I have to keep myself on a very strict sleep pattern, or when I get off of it, I don’t go to bed until 2,3,4am, then never make it up in time to make it to work by 8:30am. And yes, the decreased sex drive is a pain.     Are you taking anything with the Zoloft? I was taking 100mg Zoloft and 4mg Xanax daily, now I’m on 200mg Zoloft and 3mg Klonopin daily. That might also explain the rash, and the waking up thing.     Hope this is of some help for you. Much Love, Brooke Hi Brooke, Do you take anything for the manic depression? Chip

No, because it rarely rears its ugly head, the manic side at least.. it’s often usually just regular old depression, however, we are keeping an eye on it (Daily journal of what’s going on and keeping track of how often the manic side rears up). The pdoc is really concerned with me hiding my depression from people as well as I do, so he wants to try and get that and the anxiety all under control. Much Love, Brooke PS I think the Klonopin helps with the manic too… that’s just my thought. Since I’ve switched from xanax to Klonopin I’ve had a lot fewer manic episodes. B.

Response:

Hi Tom,     Welcome to ASAP. I’m 21 and diagnosed with manic depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ocd.. and now I’m beginning to wonder about something else, but anyways, the reason for your post and mine.     I’ve been on Zoloft since mid-October. I started on 25mg, two weeks later increased to 50mg, and then two weeks after that 100mg. I finally gained some control over my "problems." I was taken off Zoloft and put on Celexa for a 6 week rollercoaster. I’m back on the Zoloft, and have been since February. I’m up to 200mg a day.     Now, I have little side effects. In the beginning I had a lot of side effects, those you listed, extreme dry mouth, but not the rash and I still have a hard time getting out of bed at a decent hour, I have to keep myself on a very strict sleep pattern, or when I get off of it, I don’t go to bed until 2,3,4am, then never make it up in time to make it to work by 8:30am. And yes, the decreased sex drive is a pain.     Are you taking anything with the Zoloft? I was taking 100mg Zoloft and 4mg Xanax daily, now I’m on 200mg Zoloft and 3mg Klonopin daily. That might also explain the rash, and the waking up thing.     Hope this is of some help for you. Much Love, Brooke

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am new to the group and am interpreted if people can give me any feed back on Zoloft. I started on Zoloft and two months ago after about of panic and depressive episodes. Though the attacks had seemed to be lessening, it seemed to make sense at the time to treat them to prevent a reoccurrence. The first two weeks were difficult on Xanax and brought back the panic as well as diarrhea, stomach upset, heart palpitations, but these went away and I began to increase my dosage from 25mg to the doctor recommended 50mg. I can’t say I feel that much better and am wondering whether these are side effects. I knew about the decreased sex drive and can probably handle that. One major difference is that I used to wake up early in the morning with a feeling of anxiety and now I can hardly drag myself out of bed at a normal time. I also experience frequent headaches as if my head and nose is pinched. I also am putting on weight. Also wondering about the rash that appeared unexpectedly on my arms (though this could be from something else; it is pretty mild.) Do these sound familiar to anyone? I also am wondering about the dosage of 50mg since I felt pretty good on 25mg and have heard that is a standard dosage. Any thoughts about decreasing dosage? — Tom Semmes 301-530-9586 Fax 301-530-9587

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Tom,     Welcome to ASAP. I’m 21 and diagnosed with manic depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ocd.. and now I’m beginning to wonder about something else, but anyways, the reason for your post and mine.     I’ve been on Zoloft since mid-October. I started on 25mg, two weeks later increased to 50mg, and then two weeks after that 100mg. I finally gained some control over my "problems." I was taken off Zoloft and put on Celexa for a 6 week rollercoaster. I’m back on the Zoloft, and have been since February. I’m up to 200mg a day.     Now, I have little side effects. In the beginning I had a lot of side effects, those you listed, extreme dry mouth, but not the rash and I still have a hard time getting out of bed at a decent hour, I have to keep myself on a very strict sleep pattern, or when I get off of it, I don’t go to bed until 2,3,4am, then never make it up in time to make it to work by 8:30am. And yes, the decreased sex drive is a pain.     Are you taking anything with the Zoloft? I was taking 100mg Zoloft and 4mg Xanax daily, now I’m on 200mg Zoloft and 3mg Klonopin daily. That might also explain the rash, and the waking up thing.     Hope this is of some help for you. Much Love, Brooke

Hi Brooke, Do you take anything for the manic depression? Chip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am new to the group and am interpreted if people can give me any feed back on Zoloft. I started on Zoloft and two months ago after about of panic and depressive episodes. Though the attacks had seemed to be lessening, it seemed to make sense at the time to treat them to prevent a reoccurrence. The first two weeks were difficult on Xanax and brought back the panic as well as diarrhea, stomach upset, heart palpitations, but these went away and I began to increase my dosage from 25mg to the doctor recommended 50mg. I can’t say I feel that much better and am wondering whether these are side effects. I knew about the decreased sex drive and can probably handle that. One major difference is that I used to wake up early in the morning with a feeling of anxiety and now I can hardly drag myself out of bed at a normal time. I also experience frequent headaches as if my head and nose is pinched. I also am putting on weight. Also wondering about the rash that appeared unexpectedly on my arms (though this could be from something else; it is pretty mild.) Do these sound familiar to anyone? I also am wondering about the dosage of 50mg since I felt pretty good on 25mg and have heard that is a standard dosage. Any thoughts about decreasing dosage? — Tom Semmes 301-530-9586 Fax 301-530-9587

Response:

I am new to the group and am interpreted if people can give me any feed back on Zoloft. I started on Zoloft and two months ago after about of panic and depressive episodes. Though the attacks had seemed to be lessening, it seemed to make sense at the time to treat them to prevent a reoccurrence. The first two weeks were difficult on Xanax and brought back the panic as well as diarrhea, stomach upset, heart palpitations, but these went away and I began to increase my dosage from 25mg to the doctor recommended 50mg. I can’t say I feel that much better and am wondering whether these are side effects.

Yes, these are common side effects from weaning on Zoloft and should be temporary. I knew about the decreased sex drive and can probably handle that. One major difference is that I used to wake up early in the morning with a feeling of anxiety and now I can hardly drag myself out of bed at a normal time. I also experience frequent headaches as if my head and nose is pinched. I also am putting on weight. Also wondering about the rash that appeared unexpectedly on my arms (though this could be from something else; it is pretty mild.) Do these sound familiar to anyone?

These can all be side effects, the headaches should be temporary. I also am wondering about the dosage of /50mg since I felt pretty good on 25mg and have heard that is a standard dosage. Any thoughts about decreasing dosage?

On the contrary you may not have noticed much positive change because you’re on a subtherapeutic dose. I think you should consult your doctor (hopefully a psychiatrist with some knowledge of anxiety disorders and not a GP…) about raising the dose. However, the best way to do this is in increments of 12.5 mg in order to avoid or minimize side effects caused by the dose increase. Having a benzo like Xanax or Ativan on the side to take *as needed* may be helpful too. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text — Tom Semmes 301-530-9586 Fax 301-530-9587

Response:

I am new to the group and am interpreted if people can give me any feed back on Zoloft. I started on Zoloft and two months ago after about of panic and depressive episodes. Though the attacks had seemed to be lessening, it seemed to make sense at the time to treat them to prevent a reoccurrence. The first two weeks were difficult on Xanax and brought back the panic as well as diarrhea, stomach upset, heart palpitations, but these went away and I began to increase my dosage from 25mg to the doctor recommended 50mg. I can’t say I feel that much better and am wondering whether these are side effects. I knew about the decreased sex drive and can probably handle that. One major difference is that I used to wake up early in the morning with a feeling of anxiety and now I can hardly drag myself out of bed at a normal time. I also experience frequent headaches as if my head and nose is pinched. I also am putting on weight. Also wondering about the rash that appeared unexpectedly on my arms (though this could be from something else; it is pretty mild.) Do these sound familiar to anyone? I also am wondering about the dosage of 50mg since I felt pretty good on 25mg and have heard that is a standard dosage. Any thoughts about decreasing dosage? — Tom Semmes 301-530-9586 Fax 301-530-9587

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am new to the group and am interpreted if people can give me any feed back on Zoloft. I started on Zoloft and two months ago after about of panic and depressive episodes. Though the attacks had seemed to be lessening, it seemed to make sense at the time to treat them to prevent a reoccurrence. The first two weeks were difficult on Xanax and brought back the panic as well as diarrhea, stomach upset, heart palpitations, but these went away and I began to increase my dosage from 25mg to the doctor recommended 50mg. I can’t say I feel that much better and am wondering whether these are side effects. I knew about the decreased sex drive and can probably handle that. One major difference is that I used to wake up early in the morning with a feeling of anxiety and now I can hardly drag myself out of bed at a normal time. I also experience frequent headaches as if my head and nose is pinched. I also am putting on weight. Also wondering about the rash that appeared unexpectedly on my arms (though this could be from something else; it is pretty mild.) Do these sound familiar to anyone? I also am wondering about the dosage of 50mg since I felt pretty good on 25mg and have heard that is a standard dosage. Any thoughts about decreasing dosage?

Hi Tom, Welcome to ASAP! Alot of the symptoms you mentioned liked headache, weight gain and fatigue are side-effects of Zoloft. You could try going down to 25mgs ( ask your doctor first)  to see if the side-effects decrease but there is a good chance that 25mgs would not be enough to control your anxiety. The therapeutic dose of Zoloft is 100 to 200mgs, although there are people that do well on lower doses. It is also possible that better. Only you know what side-effects you are willing to tolerate or not tolerate. It is important that you talk to your doctor about what is going on so something can be done to help you. Take care Jackie ~*~When you get to the end of all the light you know and it’s time to step into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing that one of two things shall happen: either you will be given something solid to stand on, or you will be taughhow to fly~*~

Response:

My friend has an anxiety disorder-was recently prescribled 50 mg of Zoloft to take in the a.m.  She finds that she is very tired and ready for sleep around 2:30 p.m.   Is 50mg of Zoloft/day normally prescribed?  She’s complains of feeling too sedated. Thanks in advance for your response.  :0) Jennifer

Response:

: :My friend has an anxiety disorder-was recently prescribled 50 mg of Zoloft to :take in the a.m.  She finds that she is very tired and ready for sleep around :2:30 p.m.   : :Is 50mg of Zoloft/day normally prescribed?  She’s complains of feeling too :sedated. : :Thanks in advance for your response.  :0) Dear Jennifer, Welcome to ASAP! Some people do well on 50mgs of Zoloft, others do well on 100mgs and then person to person. Sedation and feeling tired are common side-effects of antidepressants which is why it`s so important for people with anxiety disorder to start antidepressants at a low dose (zoloft would be12.5 or 25mgs) and to wean slowly (with Zoloft increasing the dose in 12.5 or 25 mg increments once a week or so). We tend to be sensitive to the side-effects of medication. Had your friend started Zoloft at 12.5 mg or even 25mgs the sedation may not have been so bad. She could try to stick this side-effect out, it might start to diminish once her body adjusts to the 50mgs. If she finds this side-effect is just too much for her, she should call her doctor and ask to lower her dose. Take care Jackie ~*~Do unto others as though you were the others~*~

Response:

My friend has an anxiety disorder-was recently prescribled 50 mg of Zoloft to take in the a.m.  She finds that she is very tired and ready for sleep around 2:30 p.m. Is 50mg of Zoloft/day normally prescribed?  She’s complains of feeling too sedated. Thanks in advance for your response.  :0) Jennifer

If her sleepiness is due to the Zoloft, she could try 25 mg/day for awhile, and then raise the dose. Chip

Response:

I definitely agree with lowering the dose initially. She could also try taking the 50mg at bedtime. Zoloft is one of those medications that usually must build up in the system over at least two weeks and it doesn’t really matter if you take it in the morning or at bedtime. Often it is just trial and error to find the regime that works best. Good luck, Russ,  M.D.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My friend has an anxiety disorder-was recently prescribled 50 mg of Zoloft to take in the a.m.  She finds that she is very tired and ready for sleep around 2:30 p.m. Is 50mg of Zoloft/day normally prescribed?  She’s complains of feeling too sedated. Thanks in advance for your response.  :0) Jennifer

Response:

WHATS the story with Zoloft.Ive been on it for a week and still don,t feel any better.Please email me your xperiences with zoloft.Does it take a long time to work.  I DON,T want to give up on it yet I am taking 150mg a day Time wounds all heels!! Generally it takes up to 6 weeks for antidepressants to work.  Some though are fortunate that feel "something" happening by the end of the first week. Don’t give up.  Keep it up. I thought you might have written in another post about difficulty getting an orgasm.  This is experienced with SSRIs, and when it comes so soon after initiation of treatment it is more than likely due to that.  Let your MD know and he may want to change to another SSRI or some other antidepressant that does not have this side effect. kksoo

Response:

Major Impact schreef: WHATS the story with Zoloft.Ive been on it for a week and still don,t feel any better.Please email me your xperiences with zoloft.Does it take a long time to work.  I DON,T want to give up on it yet I am taking 150mg a day Time wounds all heels!!

Alkthough I don’t have experiences with Zoloft I did take three other meds from the same (SSRI) group of antidepressants. These have in common that it may take awhile (anything up from 2-10 weeks) to take effect. So take that time to give the med a chance. After a week it’s already a very good sign that you experienced no side effects or heightened anxiety. This may well be the right med for you! Philip Peters – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –                                                                                                                                                l

Response:

WHATS the story with Zoloft.Ive been on it for a week and still don,t feel any better.Please email me your xperiences with zoloft.Does it take a long time to work.  I DON,T want to give up on it yet I am taking 150mg a day Time wounds all heels!!                                                                                                                                                    l        

Response:

  my 9 yr old son is taking zoloft..he started at 25mg the first week, now the 2nd week is up to 50 mg.  A little while after he takes it he says he feels hot and his head feels funny.  The whole day he is fine and it is really helping his impulsiveness, frustration and tantrums…these traits have nearly disappeared.  I am going to ask the doctor about it but is this normal?  He just was weaned off of Luvox at the same time he started the Zoloft. Debbie

Response:

my 9 yr old son is taking zoloft..he started at 25mg the first week, now the 2nd week is up to 50 mg.  A little while after he takes it he says he feels hot and his head feels funny.  The whole day he is fine and it is really helping his impulsiveness, frustration and tantrums…these traits have nearly disappeared.  I am going to ask the doctor about it but is this normal?  He just was weaned off of Luvox at the same time he started the Zoloft. Debbie

Hi Debbie, Zoloft can cause sweating and headaches and that could be what your son is experiencing. I would mention this to the doctor, it should go away in a few weeks and appears to be mild, so I wouldn`t worry. That is wonderful that Zoloft has helped your son so much ) Take care!! Jackie

Response:

Hopefully the side effects will go away. I had a really bad time on zoloft. Things did get better but I only took it for two days becuase I could not go to work. So mabe I’ll give a go when I have some space. Incidentally my doc said that the minumum dose was 50mg and that’s what I started on. I am in the UK, but this cannot be right. I think I may purchase myself a pill cutter — And god said. Let there be light. And there was light. But the darkness crept over me. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  my 9 yr old son is taking zoloft..he started at 25mg the first week, now the 2nd week is up to 50 mg.  A little while after he takes it he says he feels hot and his head feels funny.  The whole day he is fine and it is really helping his impulsiveness, frustration and tantrums…these traits have nearly disappeared.  I am going to ask the doctor about it but is this normal?  He just was weaned off of Luvox at the same time he started the Zoloft. Debbie

Response:

I had the same symptoms the first couple of days after switching from Paxil. went to 50 the second week. Felt it for a while the first day of 50, but not since. Good luck to your son. Lee

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – my 9 yr old son is taking zoloft..he started at 25mg the first week, now the 2nd week is up to 50 mg.  A little while after he takes it he says he feels hot and his head feels funny.  The whole day he is fine and it is really helping his impulsiveness, frustration and tantrums…these traits have nearly disappeared.  I am going to ask the doctor about it but is this normal?  He just was weaned off of Luvox at the same time he started the Zoloft. Debbie Hi Debbie, Zoloft can cause sweating and headaches and that could be what your son is experiencing. I would mention this to the doctor, it should go away in a few weeks and appears to be mild, so I wouldn`t worry. That is wonderful that Zoloft has helped your son so much ) Take care!! Jackie

Response:

Hopefully the side effects will go away. I had a really bad time on zoloft. Things did get better but I only took it for two days becuase I could not go to work. So mabe I’ll give a go when I have some space. Incidentally my doc said that the minumum dose was 50mg and that’s what I started on. I am in the UK, but this cannot be right. I think I may purchase myself a pill cutter

Oh yes, the UK where psychiatry still has to be invented…. 12.5 mg is the recommended starting dose (half a 25 mg tab), 25 mg may be managed but 50 mg is cruelty! Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – — And god said. Let there be light. And there was light. But the darkness crept over me.  my 9 yr old son is taking zoloft..he started at 25mg the first week, now the 2nd week is up to 50 mg.  A little while after he takes it he says he feels hot and his head feels funny.  The whole day he is fine and it is really helping his impulsiveness, frustration and tantrums…these traits have nearly disappeared.  I am going to ask the doctor about it but is this normal?  He just was weaned off of Luvox at the same time he started the Zoloft. Debbie

Response:

Oh yes, the UK where psychiatry still has to be invented…. Philip —

Not true!!! My shrink has a certificate of competence signed by no less a person than Noah (of Ark fame).  Must admit though I was a bit worried by the Thioridazine he gave me.  I could just make out on the label that it was best before 3000 BC — Jon Guite Live support and chat for anxiety and panic disorders at the #anx/pan chat room in Dalnet.  For details see http://www.skcldv.demon.co.uk/anxpanw.htm

Response:

LEJ351 schreef: how long did it take for you to start feeling better?  I am only at 2 weeks and am still strugggling with insomnia, lack of appetite and  an acidic stomach.  I also use ativan as needed

Hopefully the Ativan will take you through these weeks as your body is adjusting to Zoloft. You should give Zoloft between 6-8 weeks to be able to evaluate its effect, but it’s entirely possible that you will feel better sooner than that. Philip

Response:

I recently began taking zoloft and have never felt better.  I am curious why it seem many people take zoloft and xanax combo.  Does this help to alleviate some side effects?

Response:

I recently began taking zoloft and have never felt better.  I am curious why it seem many people take zoloft and xanax combo.  Does this help to alleviate some side effects?

It does but when you don’t need it, so much the better! Glad it works! Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

how long did it take for you to start feeling better?  I am only at 2 weeks and am still strugggling with insomnia, lack of appetite and  an acidic stomach.  I also use ativan as needed

Response:

how long did it take for you to start feeling better?  I am only at 2 weeks and am still strugggling with insomnia, lack of appetite and  an acidic stomach.  I also use ativan as needed

Hi: I am on ZOloft 25mg a day, and klonipin 3mg a day (all at bedtime)  I take benadryl 50mg PRN if I can’t get to sleep. For your stomach acidity, I had the same problem, and a simple dose of Zantac 75 (available without prescription) works wonders for the acid problem..in fact..NO problem!!!..It also doesn’t have any side effects. My pdoc lowered my Zoloft prescription after I found it caused too many side effects. At 25 mg’s at bedtime, it works wonders. I’ve been on it about a month now. Again, the benadryl as per needed, (even if I have to take it every second night!!) works great to knock off to sleep. Most impotantly, it keeps my sleep pattern regular.(ie. don’t sleep all day, and stay awake all night, which was my problem before I took the benadryl) Also, Gravol is simular to Benadryl, but a little bit milder, so may also want to consider this. These are non-prescription drugs, so you can take a shot yourself, and if they work..GREAT!! They’ve worked for me, and I’ve heard they worked well for many other, but, just try, as YMMV… Best of luck.. James — "All of us get lost in the darkness… Dreamers learn to stear by the stars.." Neil Peart, Rush, "The Pass"

Response: