Question:

I just switched physicians.  I just got another cold, and I’ve had enough.  The next time I have an appointment with him I’m going to speak to him about switching back to Vanceril.  It’s less convenient (4x/day), but I’d rather not deal with the side effects of Aerobid anymore.  Or the taste of it, for that matter.  :-)

Suggestion:  Pulmicort ™ (brand of budesonide) has been approved by the FDA for use in the United States, although it may not yet be commonly available.  It is quite a bit stronger than Aerobid ™ (brand of flunisolide).  You might try asking your doctor to try you on Pulmicort ™. I’ve been on it for over a year with zero problems. (However, I am adrenally insufficient, and had to have both hips replaced, because of long-term prednisone.  I am currently on hydrocortisone replacement therapy.  Your mileage may vary.)

Response:

I’ve been on Aerobid inhaler (4 puffs in the morning and 4 at night) for two years. I have not suffered an asthma attack since. However, I noticed that often after inhaling Aerobid, I get very nervous, jittery, irritable and begin to tremble. Supposedly, Aerobid, an inhaled steroid, should not

Since stopping with freon propelled inhilators I no longer get the shakes. Also, my asthma is much better to the point that I am convinced that the propellant was aggravating my asthma. I now use Bricanyl and Pulmicort both of which are from ASTRA pharma Inc . in Mississauga, Ontario. These are packaged in "turbuhalers" which are breath activated. That is, by breathing in the medication in powder form is picked up. I will never use inhilators with propellants again.

Response:

(JSterl7511) writes: I’ve been on Aerobid inhaler (4 puffs in the morning and 4 at night) for two years. I have not suffered an asthma attack since. However, I noticed that often after inhaling Aerobid, I get very nervous, jittery, irritable and begin to tremble. Supposedly, Aerobid, an inhaled steroid, should not cause these symptoms which are often associated with injected, oral tablets or other systemic steroids.

False!  While systemic effects are uncommon, they are *not* unheard of. According to the manufacturer’s own package insert that comes with the

Aerobid inhaler: Adverse reactions reported include "nervous system" effects: dizziness, irritability, nervousness, shakiness (incidence 3-9%).  You should ask your doctor or pharmacist for this package insert and read it yourself, or consult the PDR. I use Aerobid inhaler myself–and I’ve had problems too: Ever since I started on Aerobid last year, I’ve had many more colds,

averaging about 1 cold every 8 weeks!  (Before starting Aerobid I used to get only 2-3 colds per year.)  And sure enough, the reported incidence of "cold symptoms" is 15%, and "upper respiratory infection" is 25% !  If this is a side effect of Aerobid, it’s a nasty one for me because those colds all exacerbate my asthma for weeks. I used to be on Vanceril before this.  From my comparison of the package

inserts and other references I’ve consulted, I have concluded that Aerobid seems to have a greater incidence of systemic side effects than Vanceril does. I just switched physicians.  I just got another cold, and I’ve had

enough.  The next time I have an appointment with him I’m going to speak to him about switching back to Vanceril.  It’s less convenient (4x/day), but I’d rather not deal with the side effects of Aerobid anymore.  Or the taste of it, for that matter.  :-) Why does AeroBid list so many side effects [adverse events] in their package insert and the PDR? FACT:  AeroBid was approved by the FDA in 1984, just after the mandate from FDA that ALL adverse events, whether directly associated with the drug or not, be listed. Thus, Vanceril, Beclovent and Azmacort – all approved by FDA prior to the mandate, do not list such occurrences. Flovent (fluticasone), recently approved by FDA, also lists all adverse events in their package insert. Pulmicort (budesonide),  has been submitted to FDA and received an ‘approvable letter’ in June ‘96 but not yet approved, will also list all adverse events. Thus, AeroBid has no greater side effect risk than does Vanceril, Beclovent or Azmacort. The same can be said about Flovent and Pulmicort. A suggestion that may help to reduce or even eliminate systemic related effects of AeroBid (including taste) or any inhaled steroid is to try an AeroChamber. This is a holding chamber (spacer device) that has been shown to reduce the amount of drug that ends up in the mouth and throat by six fold, without impairing the small drug particle availability which actually navigates to the lower airways and provides the topical benefit of inhaled steroid (antiinflammatory) therapy. If you have been on a 2000 mcg (8 puffs daily) dose for 2 years without an asthma attack, try the AeroChamber before changing horses, so to say. Tim Wood

Response:

I’ve been on Aerobid inhaler (4 puffs in the morning and 4 at night) for two years. I have not suffered an asthma attack since. However, I noticed that often after inhaling Aerobid, I get very nervous, jittery, irritable and begin to tremble. Supposedly, Aerobid, an inhaled steroid, should not cause these symptoms which are often associated with injected, oral tablets or other systemic steroids. Anyone else experience these problems with Aerobid? What did you do? Cut down the dosage or move onto another medication. I’d appreciate hearing from someone with similar experience. Thanks. John  Sterling

Response:

I’ve been on Aerobid inhaler (4 puffs in the morning and 4 at night) for two years. I have not suffered an asthma attack since. However, I noticed that often after inhaling Aerobid, I get very nervous, jittery, irritable and begin to tremble. Supposedly, Aerobid, an inhaled steroid, should not cause these symptoms which are often associated with injected, oral tablets or other systemic steroids.

False!  While systemic effects are uncommon, they are *not* unheard of. According to the manufacturer’s own package insert that comes with the Aerobid inhaler: Adverse reactions reported include "nervous system" effects: dizziness, irritability, nervousness, shakiness (incidence 3-9%).  You should ask your doctor or pharmacist for this package insert and read it yourself, or consult the PDR. Anyone else experience these problems with Aerobid? What did you do?

I use Aerobid inhaler myself–and I’ve had problems too: Ever since I started on Aerobid last year, I’ve had many more colds, averaging about 1 cold every 8 weeks!  (Before starting Aerobid I used to get only 2-3 colds per year.)  And sure enough, the reported incidence of "cold symptoms" is 15%, and "upper respiratory infection" is 25% !  If this is a side effect of Aerobid, it’s a nasty one for me because those colds all exacerbate my asthma for weeks. I used to be on Vanceril before this.  From my comparison of the package inserts and other references I’ve consulted, I have concluded that Aerobid seems to have a greater incidence of systemic side effects than Vanceril does. I just switched physicians.  I just got another cold, and I’ve had enough.  The next time I have an appointment with him I’m going to speak to him about switching back to Vanceril.  It’s less convenient (4x/day), but I’d rather not deal with the side effects of Aerobid anymore.  Or the taste of it, for that matter.  :-) — Steven D. Litvintchouk                  "There seems to be no mainframe Disclaimer:  As far as I am aware,       in which we’re living." the opinions expressed herein                 — President Bill Clinton are not those of my employer.

Response:

Question:

I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with taking Pulmicort  in addition to Flovent?  My daughter was changed from Flovent 220 4 puffs 2x daily to 2 puffs of Flovent as well as 2 puffs of Pulmicort both twice daily. Dr. thinks she may be able to get the pulmicort deeper into her lungs, but wants to keep her on Flovent as well. She also is on an oral regimen.  Thanx in advance. Sorry to always ask so many questions, but am interested in others feedback.

Response:

Doesn’t make much sense to me. If he thinks the Pulmicort will penetrate deeper then why still use the FLovent? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with taking Pulmicort  in addition to Flovent?  My daughter was changed from Flovent 220 4 puffs 2x daily to 2 puffs of Flovent as well as 2 puffs of Pulmicort both twice daily. Dr. thinks she may be able to get the pulmicort deeper into her lungs, but wants to keep her on Flovent as well. She also is on an oral regimen.  Thanx in advance. Sorry to always ask so many questions, but am interested in others feedback.

Response:

To be honest the deeper pentration of Pulmicort is a promotional trick of the Pharmaceutical Company. Deeper penetration does not mean better action because the asthma inflamation is restricted to medium bronchi. Deeper steroid penetration may be joined with greater side effects as the drug is easily distributed to the blood from the pulmonary alveoli. Flovent has greater therapeutic index what means greater efficacy and less side effects. Rather stay with this drug. Marcin STrzondala MD

Response:

To be honest the deeper pentration of Pulmicort is a promotional trick of the Pharmaceutical Company. Deeper penetration does not mean better action because the asthma inflamation is restricted to medium bronchi. Deeper steroid penetration may be joined with greater side effects as the drug is easily distributed to the blood from the pulmonary alveoli. Flovent has greater therapeutic index what means greater efficacy and less side effects. Rather stay with this drug. Marcin STrzondala MD

I don’t knew, what you knew, but I think… …you have some friends from glaxo, …you don’t knew what Astra says, …you aren’t helpful for most ng-members, because your minds are indifferent and you make presumption of the work of an home-medician. You are right with the connexion of deeper penetration and Alveolitis. Lothar.

Response:

Question:

Looking for another (back-up)source for generic V, probably a reliable Indian source.  Any suggestions out there with regard to quality/price/shipping?  Medicapharma.com, Importeddrugs.com are a couple I’ve seen in this NG, any thoughts on these companies? reg, fcr

Response:

i’ve had good reults with contrademedical.com….check ‘em out…a number of people here have used them successfully Murray

Response:

Looking for another (back-up)source for generic V, probably a reliable Indian source.  Any suggestions out there with regard to quality/price/shipping?  Medicapharma.com, Importeddrugs.com are a couple I’ve seen in this NG, any thoughts on these companies? reg, fcr

I’ve had good luck with Shop Rx online: http://www.shoprxonline.com/ — Regards, Steve Saling aka The Garlic Dude Gilroy, CA The Garlic Capital of The World http://www.pulsareng.com/

Response:

Looking for another (back-up)source for generic V, probably a reliable Indian source.  Any suggestions out there with regard to quality/price/shipping?  Medicapharma.com, Importeddrugs.com are a couple I’ve seen in this NG, any thoughts on these companies? reg, fcr

Here you go…I’ve used them with no hastles and GREAT prices. They don’t have generic Uprima though. http://www.overturepharmacy.com:8080/index.jsp RON

Response:

Question:

Can anyone help me find out what wrong? In the past month, my lungs have worsened.  My peak flow used to be around 375, but now I can’t get it any higher than 325.  My chest feels tight constantly–it didn’t before.  I sometimes feel intense pain in my chest–I had never felt that before about a month ago.  I need to use my albuterol inhaler about 8 times per week and my neb about 4 times a week–much more meds are needed than ever before.  I’ve been tested and tested for allergies,  but I’m really not allergic to anything.  My doctor says my asthma’s no worse than before.  What’s causing this?

It sounds like your asthma is worse than before. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off."    General Colin Powell

Response:

Can anyone help me find out what wrong? In the past month, my lungs have worsened.  My peak flow used to be around 375, but now I can’t get it any higher than 325.  My chest feels tight constantly–it didn’t before.  I sometimes feel intense pain in my chest–I had never felt that before about a month ago.  I need to use my albuterol inhaler about 8 times per week and my neb about 4 times a week–much more meds are needed than ever before.  I’ve been tested and tested for allergies,  but I’m really not allergic to anything.  My doctor says my asthma’s no worse than before.  What’s causing this? -Lannieta

Since your peak flow is down and symptoms have increased, this indicates your asthma has worsened. Apparently you have nonallergic asthma. It sounds like you need to increase your inhaled steroid or/and switch to one of the newer stronger ones; Pulmicort or Flovent. Current asthma guidelines are to use an Action Plan approved by your doctor to adjust medications. See: http://www.ama-assn.org/special/asthma/treatmnt/updates/patient.htm Patient Asthma Action Plans Ellis

Response:

Can anyone help me find out what wrong? In the past month, my lungs have worsened.  My peak flow used to be around 375, but now I can’t get it any higher than 325.  My chest feels tight constantly–it didn’t before.  I sometimes feel intense pain in my chest–I had never felt that before about a month ago.  I need to use my albuterol inhaler about 8 times per week and my neb about 4 times a week–much more meds are needed than ever before.  I’ve been tested and tested for allergies,  but I’m really not allergic to anything.  My doctor says my asthma’s no worse than before.  What’s causing this? -Lannieta

Response:

Last time I visited my doctor (6 days ago), he LOWERED my Azmacort (one of the older inhaled steroids).  I’m allergic to Pulmicort an Flovent (Flovent almost killed me), so I can’t take them. -Lannieta

Response:

Last time I visited my doctor (6 days ago), he LOWERED my Azmacort (one of the older inhaled steroids).  I’m allergic to Pulmicort an Flovent (Flovent almost killed me), so I can’t take them. -Lannieta

Azmacort is triamcinolone, a rather weak steroid inhaler. It seems to have more side effects than other steroids. I had facial edema from Azmacort, had to switch to Beclovent/Vanceril [beclomethasone]. What are your ‘allergic’ symptoms to Pulmicort and Flovent? Expecially Flovent? Ellis

Response:

Pulmicort reduced my peak flow to about 225 (my average then was about 375) and caused difficulty breathing enough to have an emergency visit to my regular asthma doc.  The Flovent caused me to stop breathing just after taking it–a friend had to call an ambulance and I stayed in the hospital for a day. -Lannieta

Response:

Question:

Can anyone tell me if Pulmicort is as effective as I have heard from people? Side effects?  I am currently on intal, becloforte and singulair but my asthma is not completly controlled. Thanks Scott

Response:

Dear Scott, Pulmicort is approximately the same potency as Becloforte.  The most significant difference between them is that Becloforte is a traditional spray inhaler and Pulmicort is a dry powder inhaler without aerosol propellant.  Some people find that dry powder inhalers are much easier to use than an aerosol.  Many people find it difficult to inhale from spray front moving at more than 100 kilometers per hour.  For such people, switching to Pulmicort (or a comparable dry powder inhaler like Flovent Diskus) can improve asthma control.  If patients can use an aerosol inhaler and a dry powder inhaler with equal ease, Becloforte and Pulmicort will generally produce similar clinical benefit.  Has your doctor, pharmacist or other caregiver watched you using your inhaler to be sure that you can use it adequately? Your treatment regimen seems a bit confused.  Most asthma experts find that there is little benefit from adding Intal to a high concentration inhaled steroid like Becloforte.  Is your asthma being monitored by a specialist? Good luck. — Kenneth Chapman Director Asthma Centre of The Toronto Hospital Professor of Medicine University of Toronto

Response:

I have moderate asthma and have been on Pulmicort since 2/98.  I used to take Flovent 220mcg.  I was switched to Pulmicort as it did not have the systemic steroid side effects as Flovent. I have found Pulmicort to be very effective in controlling my asthma.  It has been used in europe for years prior to being approved for use here in the States.

Response:

One thing that is important is the way you take the medication. Do not tip the inhaler upward when delivering a dose.  It is easier to tip you head back slightly to open the airway and inhale the medication. It take a little time to get used to using this inhaler versus the propellant type inhaler we where all used to taking.  Good Luck!  

Response:

Can anyone tell me if Pulmicort is as effective as I have heard from people? Side effects?  I am currently on intal, becloforte and singulair but my asthma is not completly controlled. Thanks Scott If you would like current and past scientific research material, then I

suggest you refer to the internet site http://www.nlm.nih.gov/databases/freemedl.html and then click on INTERNET GRATEFUL MED and enter in the Query Terms: pulmicort, side effects, and efficacy, which should result in 17 articles you can look up in your nearest health science library or you can get an overview of the information by reading the abstracts. Budesonide, generic for Pulmicort,  is the first corticosteroid dry powder inhaler for the maintenance treatment of asthma that is used in prophylactic drug therapy. The usual dosage is 2-3 puffs per day in which there is 200mcg/puff. The drug should improve nighttime symptoms and reduce the dependence on direct beta-2-agonist bronchodilators such as albuterol sulfate. The most common associated side effects are respiratory infection, headache, orad candidiasis, dysphonia, and pharyngitis, but inhaled corticosteroids are relatively safe and effective anti-inflammatory medications. However, as with any medication, your doctor should monitor your drug therapy and any switches/add-ons to your current medications. Also, a common consumer complaint is that the drug is very fine so you might not see the drug inhalation. Intal, a mast cell stabilizer, and Singulair, a leukotriene modifier, act on different steps of the body’s reaction asthmatic attacks. There are other internet sites available to consumer such as http://www.rxmed.com and http://www.fda.gov that provide helpful new and past drug information, including clinical trial information, dosage available, drug interactions, and contraindications. If you click on http://www.pslgroup.com/ASTMA.HTM, there are over 50 internet sites that are linked including the American Lung Association and more discussion groups available. Also, http//www.publinet.it/pol/cmol/steroids/htm has individual drug monographs available on other asthma drug medications. Finally, Pulmicort should be more effective then your current medications, and if you use it chromically, it should help you to control the asthma to improve your quality of life.                                                         Bly I hope the information I suggested will be helpful to you, but I cannot make any guarantees as to its accuracy, completeness, usefulness, or relevance to your particular situation. There is no substitute for having an ongoing, two-way dialogue with a licensed health professional whom you know and trust. Good luck.

Response:

Can anyone tell me if Pulmicort is as effective as I have heard from people? Side effects?  I am currently on intal, becloforte and singulair but my asthma is not completly controlled. Thanks Scott If you would like current and past scientific research material, then I

suggest you refer to the internet site www.nlm..nih.gov./databases/freemedl.html  then click on INTERNET GRATEFUL MED and enter in the Query Terms: pulmicort, side effects, and efficacy, which should result in 17 articles you can look up in your nearest health science library or you can get an overview of the information by reading the abstracts. Budesonide, generic for If you would like current and past scientific research material, then I suggest you refer to the internet site Pulmicort,  is the first corticosteroid dry powder inhaler for the maintenance treatment of asthma that is used in prophylactic drug therapy. The usual dosage is 2-3 puffs per day in which there is 200mcg/puff. The drug should improve nighttime symptoms and reduce the dependence on direct beta-2-agonist bronchodilators such as albuterol sulfate. The most common associated side effects are respiratory infection, headache, orad candidiasis, dysphonia, and pharyngitis, but inhaled corticosteroids are relatively safe and effective anti-inflammatory medications. However, as with any medication, your doctor should monitor your drug therapy and any switches/add-ons to your current medications. Also, a common consumer complaint is that the drug is very fine so you might not see the drug inhalation. Intal, a mast cell stabilizer, and Singulair, a leukotriene modifier, act on different steps of the body

Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am 33 year old computer programmer.   I was on Paxil for approx 5 years where I was taking in the end 40 mg/ day.  This was not helping with my anxiety symptoms like it had done so in the past.   The fact that I was diagnosed with  Avascular Necorsis (caused my prednisone) and needed a Total Hip Replacement was not adding to my cheer. I went to see my doctor a general practitioner who put me on Short Term Disability while he gave me a wean down schedule for the paxil and then started me on Effexor at 75 mg.  I’ve been on the Effexor for a week and am less then happy with the results. The side affects I have experienced include the following: 1) Dry Eyes 2) Cold Hands and feet 3) At times extremely itchy 4) Ringing in the earsr 5) The most worrisome side affect is the irratablity and anger I feel Today I am supposed to go up to 150 mg and am scheduled to see my doctor next week.  I have read  some real horror stories about this drug and I hope this is not the start of one.

it’s weird that the doc weaned you off paxil before getting you on Effexor, i just cut my Paxil dose in half, and took half a dose of Effexor at the same time for a week, then upped to the full Effexor dose.  i didn’t have any unpleasant side effects when starting, except for mild jitters/anxiety. with this type of med, the side effects usually go away in three to four weeks, so i’d try to wait it out.  as another poster said, you may be suffering from the paxil withdrawal, and your effexor dose might not be high enough to counteract it.  increasing the dose might actually help you. -kelly

Response:

Effexor is an SSRI like Paxil, however it has the capacity to also impact your nor-epinephrine re-uptake as well (this generally, in humans, happens at higher doses, but it’s unpredictable when it will happen, or at what dose amount)  I hated effexor- personally.  However, it may turn out to be a great drug for you.  Some of the side effect stuff is probably related to the lowering of your Paxil dose; you may have to reduce it more slowly. You don’t have to raise the Effexor, nothing bad will happen if you don’t titrate it up at some particular rate, so I’d talk to the doctor first before I did that. Gary

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am 33 year old computer programmer.   I was on Paxil for approx 5 years where I was taking in the end 40 mg/ day.  This was not helping with my anxiety symptoms like it had done so in the past.   The fact that I was diagnosed with  Avascular Necorsis (caused my prednisone) and needed a Total Hip Replacement was not adding to my cheer. I went to see my doctor a general practitioner who put me on Short Term Disability while he gave me a wean down schedule for the paxil and then started me on Effexor at 75 mg.  I’ve been on the Effexor for a week and am less then happy with the results. The side affects I have experienced include the following: 1) Dry Eyes 2) Cold Hands and feet 3) At times extremely itchy 4) Ringing in the earsr 5) The most worrisome side affect is the irratablity and anger I feel Today I am supposed to go up to 150 mg and am scheduled to see my doctor next week.  I have read  some real horror stories about this drug and I hope this is not the start of one. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. THanks in advance,

Response:

I am 33 year old computer programmer.   I was on Paxil for approx 5 years where I was taking in the end 40 mg/ day.  This was not helping with my anxiety symptoms like it had done so in the past.   The fact that I was diagnosed with  Avascular Necorsis (caused my prednisone) and needed a Total Hip Replacement was not adding to my cheer.   I went to see my doctor a general practitioner who put me on Short Term Disability while he gave me a wean down schedule for the paxil and then started me on Effexor at 75 mg.  I’ve been on the Effexor for a week and am less then happy with the results.   The side affects I have experienced include the following: 1) Dry Eyes 2) Cold Hands and feet 3) At times extremely itchy 4) Ringing in the earsr 5) The most worrisome side affect is the irratablity and anger I feel Today I am supposed to go up to 150 mg and am scheduled to see my doctor next week.  I have read  some real horror stories about this drug and I hope this is not the start of one.   Any advice would be greatly appreciated. THanks in advance,

Response:

Question:

Hi, need some quick advise, i took effexor last night, 37.5 mg. I woke up today, in a state of panic, and my pupils were BIG as a watermealon. Is this a normal side effect,and what could i take to counteract this? need advise geno

Response:

Hi, need some quick advise, i took effexor last night, 37.5 mg. I woke up today, in a state of panic, and my pupils were BIG as a watermealon. Is this a normal side effect,and what could i take to counteract this? need advise geno

If I were you, I would, for starters, abstain from anything that contains caffeine or even aspartame.

Response:

geno, big pupils is a normal side effect. no worries ) there’s not much you can do about it. ~*~nwysca~*~ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, need some quick advise, i took effexor last night, 37.5 mg. I woke up today, in a state of panic, and my pupils were BIG as a watermealon. Is this a normal side effect,and what could i take to counteract this? need advise geno If I were you, I would, for starters, abstain from anything that contains caffeine or even aspartame.

Response:

Question:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

Hummingbird says

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

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

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Question:

The antidepressant venlafaxine (Effexor) is similar in its pharmacology to Meridia, yet it isn’t scheduled.  The antidepressant bupropion Wellbutrin) is arguably more of a "stimulant" than sibutramine, yet isn’t scheduled.  (I’m not arguing that either *should* be, of course.) Both butorphanol (Stadol) and tramadol (Ultram) are so-called "non-narcotic" analgesics which can cause dependence and abuse, yet they aren’t scheduled.  It’s clear that an indication of obesity is enough of a bogeyman to the DEA that they’ll schedule first and worry about it later.

It was clear to Knoll that obesity was enough of a bogeyman. I spoke to some of their folks just before the press conference announcing the market date. They knew they couldn’t fight the Schedule 4 classification. If they could have, it would have been much easier to market. For one thing, they could have given physicians samples. This is a no-no in scheduled drugs. Barbara Barbara Hirsch, Publisher Obesity Meds and Research News OMR Web Site: http://www.obesity-news.com

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Perhaps once enough experience is gained with it, it will be removed from the DEA Schedules.

Has anything ever been unscheduled?  I recall a bunch of unscheduled going scheduled (clonipin, soma, etc), but none going the other way. — dc potts biologist at large (pull the nospam out of my email address to respond)

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Do you have any idea why Meridia is scheduled?  It isn’t addictive, is it?

There’s no evidence that sibutramine has any abuse potential, but the fact that it is psychoactive and that it has (in some individuals) somewhat of a stimulating action AND that it is prescribed for obesity, was enough for the DEA to classify it as C-IV.  Their thinking is obviously to be as careful and restrictive as possible at the drug’s introduction, rather than risk the possibility of releasing a drug unscheduled, only to find that it has a degree of abuse potential. Perhaps once enough experience is gained with it, it will be removed from the DEA Schedules. The antidepressant venlafaxine (Effexor) is similar in its pharmacology to Meridia, yet it isn’t scheduled.  The antidepressant bupropion Wellbutrin) is arguably more of a "stimulant" than sibutramine, yet isn’t scheduled.  (I’m not arguing that either *should* be, of course.) Both butorphanol (Stadol) and tramadol (Ultram) are so-called "non-narcotic" analgesics which can cause dependence and abuse, yet they aren’t scheduled.  It’s clear that an indication of obesity is enough of a bogeyman to the DEA that they’ll schedule first and worry about it later. — Steve Dyer

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Now the DEA isn’t going to know whether a doctor sees the patient or not by the prescription, but if a doctor is prescribing huge amounts of a drug, that could trigger an investigation. Then if the DEA investigates and finds irregularities in records, the doctor has a problem.

Wow. I wish we could get rid of this whole stupid prescription system. Vigara is not scheduled, but Meridia is (not that it should be, but that’s another post).

Stupid inconsistencies like this are one reason. What’s the big deal about going to a doctor a couple of times a year and getting a prescription? That’s what I do.

Why should we have to? Why should I have to ask someone else, and pay them, for permission to put something into my own body? And the people who make the laws that dictate what I can and cannot take often have no more medical knowledge than what I scoop out of the cat box. J — Tonight we’re going to party like it’s 1899. Remove the X to email me.

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Vigara is not scheduled, but Meridia is (not that it should be, but that’s another post). I wondered why I see Viagra offered everywhere, and not Meridia.  That explains it. Do you have any idea why Meridia is scheduled?  It isn’t addictive, is it?

Another reason you don’t see Meridia everywhere is that it’s expensive, and not a very effective drug. It’s scheduled, because there is no anorectic drug with any CNS stimulating qualities at all which the FDA will approve without scheduling it. Meridia isn’t that different than Effexor and Wellbutrin which aren’t scheduled. Per Glen Rickards’ post, Meridia isn’t all that similar to fenflruamine. Fen both releases and inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, Meridia is just a serotonin uptake inhibitor. It also works on norepinephrine. Barbara Barbara Hirsch, Publisher Obesity Meds and Research News OMR Web Site: http://www.obesity-news.com

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I have heard, but have not independently verified, that Meridia is chemically similar to fenfluramine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Vigara is not scheduled, but Meridia is (not that it should be, but that’s another post). I wondered why I see Viagra offered everywhere, and not Meridia.  That explains it. Do you have any idea why Meridia is scheduled?  It isn’t addictive, is it? AB

Response:

Vigara is not scheduled, but Meridia is (not that it should be, but that’s another post).

I wondered why I see Viagra offered everywhere, and not Meridia.  That explains it. Do you have any idea why Meridia is scheduled?  It isn’t addictive, is it? AB

Response:

Yes, that is exactly what I am looking for. Meridia totally online. Viagra is available through www.Focus-Medical.com

It is not wise to get medications without an exam (especially the first time), and it is questionable whether it is legal. Very few doctors would be willing to prescribe schedule 4 drugs without seeing patients first, since the physician must submit his DEA identification number with each prescription. If the DEA sees irregularities it can rip the license. Now the DEA isn’t going to know whether a doctor sees the patient or not by the prescription, but if a doctor is prescribing huge amounts of a drug, that could trigger an investigation. Then if the DEA investigates and finds irregularities in records, the doctor has a problem. Vigara is not scheduled, but Meridia is (not that it should be, but that’s another post). The only doctor I’m aware of who ever prescribed drugs on-line is now undergoing a DEA investigation after a raid on his office last year. And he doesn’t prescribe Meridia anyway. Most states have regulations allowing doctors to prescribe without seeing a patient, but the intent of the law is so that a physician can prescribe something to an existing patient who for one reason or another cannot come into the office. The intent of the law is not for doctors to become "drug stores", for writing a prescription for a fee. My guess is that states will begin clarifying their laws, and the DEA case mentioned above will probably bring some direction as well. What’s the big deal about going to a doctor a couple of times a year and getting a prescription? That’s what I do. I’ve been taking phentermine for over two years, so there probably wouldn’t be any danger if my doctor didn’t see me. But I still think it’s worth it to get checked out once in a while. Barbara Barbara Hirsch, Publisher Obesity Meds and Research News OMR Web Site: http://www.obesity-news.com

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Yes, that is exactly what I am looking for. Meridia totally online. Viagra is available through www.Focus-Medical.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think what they are looking for is a doctor that will give them a script after a phone consulation. I saw a news story on people getting viagra this way, they find these places on the net, they call and talk to a doc, or maybe they call you, ask you a few questions and then give you a ’script. without ever seeing a doc in person. and it’s all perfectly legal. Tricia C. 322/276/159   (new scale –adjusted numbers) 46 lbs lost on Atkins since May 26, 1998 <<I am looking for an online source for a prescription and fill for Meridia. I have been told that Viagra is available online with a Doctors consultation and a prescription. I am looking for the same service for Meridia. Thanks **Well..if you had a doctors consultation..wouldnt you have a doctors perscription..??** Just Me,  Lisa. "I’m not fat..I’m big boned!" -Eric Cartman- *SouthPark* PCOS the silent Disease << http://www.pcosupport.org

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I think what they are looking for is a doctor that will give them a script after a phone consulation. I saw a news story on people getting viagra this way, they find these places on the net, they call and talk to a doc, or maybe they call you, ask you a few questions and then give you a ’script. without ever seeing a doc in person. and it’s all perfectly legal. Tricia C. 322/276/159   (new scale –adjusted numbers) 46 lbs lost on Atkins since May 26, 1998 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – <<I am looking for an online source for a prescription and fill for Meridia. I have been told that Viagra is available online with a Doctors consultation and a prescription. I am looking for the same service for Meridia. Thanks **Well..if you had a doctors consultation..wouldnt you have a doctors perscription..??** Just Me,  Lisa. "I’m not fat..I’m big boned!" -Eric Cartman- *SouthPark* PCOS the silent Disease << http://www.pcosupport.org

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<<I am looking for an online source for a prescription and fill for Meridia. I have been told that Viagra is available online with a Doctors consultation and a prescription. I am looking for the same service for Meridia. Thanks **Well..if you had a doctors consultation..wouldnt you have a doctors perscription..??** Just Me,  Lisa. "I’m not fat..I’m big boned!" -Eric Cartman- *SouthPark* PCOS the silent Disease << http://www.pcosupport.org

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I am looking for an online source for a prescription and fill for Meridia. I have been told that Viagra is available online with a Doctors consultation and a prescription. I am looking for the same service for Meridia. Thanks

Response:

The antidepressant venlafaxine (Effexor) is similar in its pharmacology to Meridia, yet it isn’t scheduled.  The antidepressant bupropion Wellbutrin) is arguably more of a "stimulant" than sibutramine, yet isn’t scheduled.  (I’m not arguing that either *should* be, of course.) Both butorphanol (Stadol) and tramadol (Ultram) are so-called "non-narcotic" analgesics which can cause dependence and abuse, yet they aren’t scheduled.  It’s clear that an indication of obesity is enough of a bogeyman to the DEA that they’ll schedule first and worry about it later.

A couple of corrections, here.  In two states, Wellbutrin (bupropion), in its regular release form (not SR or the Zyban formulation), IS scheduled, the equiavlent of Schedule IV (Utah & Washington states).  The reason Ultram & Stadol aren’t scheduled because the formulations have such strong narcotic antagonist properties (give either to an opiate/opioid addict and watch them go into withdrawal). Basically, Meridia is schedule IV for the same reason Redux was — because somewhere someone mentioned that these drugs are essentially amphetamine deriviatives, and the FDA/DEA has it’s standard reaction – over-regulation. Of course, if you look at the federal schedules, you’ll see a much stronger trend toward controlling stimulants that depressants (Morphine notwithstanding).  I mean we’ve got drugs like Valium at Schedule IV, but a useful stimulant like phentermine at schedule III.  Typical. I think most of this will become academic in the next five years as the newer anti-obsesity drugs come out that have absolutely no relationship to stimulants or any stimulant activity.  Zenical, and it’s close relatives merely change the way fat is processed in the body, so hopefully access to these drugs won’t be limited by unnecessary regulation. — Rob Bowling, PharmD      (and Meridia patient)

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I had written that I had seen a report indicating CHEMICAL similarity between fen and Meridia.  You appear to be talking about differences in the pharmacological effect.  Chemical similarity doesn’t always imply identical pharmacology, but rather, relates to the structure and composition of the molecule.

Well, sibutramine is not particularly chemically similar to fenfluramine. — Steve Dyer

Response:

I had written that I had seen a report indicating CHEMICAL similarity between fen and Meridia.  You appear to be talking about differences in the pharmacological effect.  Chemical similarity doesn’t always imply identical pharmacology, but rather, relates to the structure and composition of the molecule. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Per Glen Rickards’ post, Meridia isn’t all that similar to fenflruamine. Fen both releases and inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, Meridia is just a serotonin uptake inhibitor. It also works on norepinephrine. Barbara Barbara Hirsch, Publisher Obesity Meds and Research News OMR Web Site: http://www.obesity-news.com

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There’s no evidence that sibutramine has any abuse potential, but the fact that it is psychoactive and that it has (in some individuals) somewhat of a stimulating action AND that it is prescribed for obesity, was enough for the DEA to classify it as C-IV.

What does psychoactive mean, exactly?  When I hear the word I think of LSD, or similar drugs, but it must have a broader definition. AB

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        Just a couple of corrections to your corrections                 Stadol IS scheduled (C-IV). That’s correct.  But this is relatively recent, so I can be excused for having old information. In fact, my original comments which this guy tried to correct were made a while ago; I didn’t see his article in the newsgroup.     Speaking of Stadol, the mixed agonist/antagonist dezocine (Dalgan) is not     scheduled at all, and it is the most morphine-like (highest mu-opioid     activity) of any of the mixed agonist-antagonists.  Dezocine makes Stadol     look like Tylenol. Stadol would never have been scheduled if it hadn’t been made available in a non-injected dosage form (nasal spray) which caused it to be prescribed more widely than it had been been in the previous 15 years.  Mixed agonist/antagonists which must be injected are almost by definition rarely misused, because they’re infrequently found outside hospitals, and the population of outpatients prescribed them is very small. There’s nothing like lack of use to promote lack of abuse.  I’m sure that dezocine follows this same pattern. In fact, the whole idea of a mixed agonist/antagonist being less abusable than, say, codeine, a C-II drug, is a thoroughly discredited 1960’s-era notion.  But it lives on in the current DEA schedules (only recently has this caught up to Stadol, but only after hoardes of formerly respectable people prescribed the drug started to like it a bit too much.)     The scheduling of Meridia, which has absolutely no abuse potential (or IMO     any effect at all, for that matter) is really hysterical, especially in     light of the fact that it’s pharmacodynamically identical to venlafaxine. Which shows you just how much the DEA cares about pharmacology.     What amazes me is how little is understood about     bupropion’s mechanism even after years of research. Yup.  And I’m astonished that any state would think of placing it under any controls at all.  It really doesn’t have any abuse potential.   Since this is a weight loss med newsgroup, it’s probably worth pointing out   that bupropion causes anorexia and weight loss in a pretty high percentage   of subjects.  It’s actually vastly superior to sibutramine or venlafaxine in   this regard. I’ve tried it, and really didn’t notice any anorectic effect worth getting excited over.  The ones who lose their appetite on bupropion are usually 95 lb. grandmothers, not those of us who would benefit from such an effect!    BTW, Ultram is not an antagonist.  Both tramadol and its primary metabolite    are pure, albeit weak, agonists. Correct.  This guy is a Pharm. D.? — Steve Dyer

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Since this is a weight loss med newsgroup, it’s probably worth pointing out that bupropion causes anorexia and weight loss in a pretty high percentage of subjects.  It’s actually vastly superior to sibutramine or venlafaxine in this regard.

Hmmm, that would explain why I didn’t have the urge to stuff my face when I was using Zyban to quit smoking.  In fact, some folks I know even lost weight while quitting smoking on Zyban. Of course, once I went off of it, my weight started going up rapidly … — KC 196/189 (again)/135 Eating smarter since 8/8/98 — exercising since 9/15/98 (reduced calorie/reduced fat/increased protein/low-glycemic/high-fiber/vegetarian WOE)

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The scheduling of Meridia, which has absolutely no abuse potential (or IMO any effect at all, for that matter) is really hysterical, especially in light of the fact that it’s pharmacodynamically identical to venlafaxine.

A few people have commented on their weight loss success using Effexor. Does the above statement indicate that someone who’s tried Meridia and not seen any effect would not benefit from Effexor either?

Response:

Just a couple of corrections to your corrections Stadol IS scheduled (C-IV).  Phentermine is C-IV, not C-III.  C-III anorexiants include phendimetrazine and benzphetamine, which are rarely prescribed.  Both are more effective than phentermine. Speaking of Stadol, the mixed agonist/antagonist dezocine (Dalgan) is not scheduled at all, and it is the most morphine-like (highest mu-opioid activity) of any of the mixed agonist-antagonists.  Dezocine makes Stadol look like Tylenol. The scheduling of Meridia, which has absolutely no abuse potential (or IMO any effect at all, for that matter) is really hysterical, especially in light of the fact that it’s pharmacodynamically identical to venlafaxine. With respect to bupropion (Wellbutrin), even though animal models intended to screen for "abusability" (self-administration, drug discrimination, etc.) show that it has this property, in humans, it doesn’t seem to have that effect.  In blind studies comparing 30 mg d-amphetamine, 200 mg bupropion (immediate release), and placebo, experienced stimulant abusers could not distinguish bupropion from placebo, while they reliably picked d-amphetamine every time.  The structural similarity to diethylpropion is well known, but bupropion apparently does not provoke transmitter release as amphetamine analogs generally do.  What amazes me is how little is understood about bupropion’s mechanism even after years of research. Since this is a weight loss med newsgroup, it’s probably worth pointing out that bupropion causes anorexia and weight loss in a pretty high percentage of subjects.  It’s actually vastly superior to sibutramine or venlafaxine in this regard. BTW, Ultram is not an antagonist.  Both tramadol and its primary metabolite are pure, albeit weak, agonists.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The antidepressant venlafaxine (Effexor) is similar in its pharmacology to Meridia, yet it isn’t scheduled.  The antidepressant bupropion Wellbutrin) is arguably more of a "stimulant" than sibutramine, yet isn’t scheduled.  (I’m not arguing that either *should* be, of course.) Both butorphanol (Stadol) and tramadol (Ultram) are so-called "non-narcotic" analgesics which can cause dependence and abuse, yet they aren’t scheduled.  It’s clear that an indication of obesity is enough of a bogeyman to the DEA that they’ll schedule first and worry about it later. A couple of corrections, here. In two states, Wellbutrin (bupropion), in its regular release form (not SR or the Zyban formulation), IS scheduled, the equiavlent of Schedule IV (Utah & Washington states).  The reason Ultram & Stadol aren’t scheduled because the formulations have such strong narcotic antagonist properties (give either to an opiate/opioid addict and watch them go into withdrawal). Basically, Meridia is schedule IV for the same reason Redux was — because somewhere someone mentioned that these drugs are essentially amphetamine deriviatives, and the FDA/DEA has it’s standard reaction – over-regulation. Of course, if you look at the federal schedules, you’ll see a much stronger trend toward controlling stimulants that depressants (Morphine notwithstanding).  I mean we’ve got drugs like Valium at Schedule IV, but a useful stimulant like phentermine at schedule III.  Typical. I think most of this will become academic in the next five years as the newer anti-obsesity drugs come out that have absolutely no relationship to stimulants or any stimulant activity.  Zenical, and it’s close relatives merely change the way fat is processed in the body, so hopefully access to these drugs won’t be limited by unnecessary regulation. — Rob Bowling, PharmD     (and Meridia patient)

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Question:

Add another one to that number–numbers are my game!  I have a degree in mathematics, and have made a living in the past both teaching math, and working as both a technical typist and an administrative assistant in the research area.  I do all the gathering and tabulating numbers for the taxes, etc. for our repair service business that my husband and I run!  And I have had migraines for about 40 years now! Barbara — Barbara Lemmond – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey, maybe that’s something that goes with migraines too!  I enjoy tabulating and typing too. <g Vicky , Must be the "type A" migraine personality in us coming out!  LOL Judy

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Vicky , Must be the "type A" migraine personality in us coming out!  LOL

<Helen A+!!! </Helen butting (went to http://www.peterzale.com and fell in love…)         (oh, that’s a different Helen, btw…) — Bryce Utting                          http://www.cs.waikato.ac.nz/~butting                 the cross before me, the world behind me                              no turning back

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Ingrid… I don’t know if you’re still taking results of the survey, but just in case….I had to add my two cents… Low BP (90/60) Cold Extremities Low Temperature (c. 97.4 degrees) Insomnia Fatigue Sinus problems Acute senses (hearing, smell, touch) Seziures Benign brain cyst Bruxism Mitral Valve Prolapse PTSD Good idea taking this survey! Thanks for taking the time to tabulate eveything…. Raven Cultural Advisor ~ Ceili Convention Committee The Once and Future Con ~ 12-14 June 1998 http://www.mindwell.com/~anubis/oafc "From this life to the next…."

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Hey, maybe that’s something that goes with migraines too!  I enjoy tabulating and typing too. <g

Vicky , Must be the "type A" migraine personality in us coming out!  LOL Judy

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See…..now *there* is a survey that Mario and I could take part in!!!! Bob

Gee, that sounds even more fun!!

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Vicky , Must be the "type A" migraine personality in us coming out!  LOL

<Helen A+!!! </Helen butting (went to http://www.peter-zale.com and fell in love…) — Bryce Utting                          http://www.cs.waikato.ac.nz/~butting                 the cross before me, the world behind me                              no turning back

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PS, I’m glad you thought this was fun…I now know I have a kindred soul here (and one whose hubby has the same sick sense of humor mine does! LOL!)

Hey, maybe that’s something that goes with migraines too!  I enjoy tabulating and typing too. <g — Vicky

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JLR) writes: the same sick sense of humor mine does! LOL!)

See…..now *there* is a survey that Mario and I could take part in!!!! Bob Never Blame the Rainbows for the Rain [J.H.& R.T.]

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PTSD                        1       What is that?          

PTSD=Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Response:

Ingrid, Nice job on this!.  I’m curious about a couple of things… I’m guessing that the female:male ratio on this is pretty high…do you happen to know?  Also, am wondering if you just looked at those with the low BP, are there other prevalant symptoms going along with that… i.e., how many with low BP have cold extremities, low temperature, etc?  Again, thanks for doing this! Judy PS, I’m glad you thought this was fun…I now know I have a kindred soul here (and one whose hubby has the same sick sense of humor mine does! LOL!)

Response:

PTSD                    1       What is that?

I will take a stab at it and say Post Traumatic Stress Disorder? Ingrid — — My house is maintained for the comfort of my dogs, if you don’t like it – leave. —

– Charity bot food:  http://www.e-scrub.com/cgi-bin/wpoison/wpoison.cgi Remove NoJunkMail and replace with slepcevc

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Summary:                50 total responses               Low BP                  36      2 high BP       Gastric Problems        18      Did not separate out for IBS             Cold Extremities        17               Low Temperature 13      2 high   Insomnia                12               Fast Pulse              12               Allergies               10               Fatigue                 10               Depression              9               Raynauds Syndrome       6               Sinus Problems          6               Acute Senses            5       I lumped smell, hearing and sensitive eye               Endometriosis           5               Asthma                  4               Disc Problems           3               Geographic Tongue       3               Anxiety                 2               Fibromyalgia            2               Motion Sickness 2               Osteoarthritis          2               Seizures                2               Vasomotor Rhinitis      2               ARAD/S          1       My almost son-in-law has that!           Benign Essential Tremor 1               Blood Clots             1               Bruxism         1               Gallbladder             1               Low Thyroid             1               Mitral Valve Prolapse   1               PTSD                    1       What is that?           Rheumatic Fever 1               Shingles                1               Urinary Tract problems  1 From reading other threads I was under the impression that more people had seizures. Unfortunately, I could realistically only tabulate those under the "Common" thread. I left out symptoms occurring during migraines, since we were looking for "other" common problems. I still find the incidence of low BP amazing and was especially interested that a German doctor felt it should be treated. When I was home in Germany over Christmas my Mom’s doctor asked me what I was being treated with for the low BP. She was quite shocked that the doctors in the US don’t seem to think it important. This was fun! Ingrid           — — My house is maintained for the comfort of my dogs, if you don’t like it – leave. —

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