Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.
Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing?
My 17 yr old dughter uses Medrol. Her Dr. feels it has lesser side effects in long term use.We feel it has contributed to her having multiple fractures(however she is a gymnast). It makes her hungry, and moody as well as cousing some weight gain.
I have been on prednisone for 19 months now – ranging from 60 mg to 15 mg (can’t get below that). I have had changes in my eye sight, depression, weight gain (60 lbs) and moonface. Personally if I had a choice I wouldn’t use it any longer than I had to. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.
Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? My 17 yr old dughter uses Medrol. Her Dr. feels it has lesser side effects in long term use.We feel it has contributed to her having multiple fractures(however she is a gymnast). It makes her hungry, and moody as well as cousing some weight gain.
The fractures suggests osteoporosis. Has she had a test? DEXA scan or ultrasound. If she has osteoporosis is she taking calcium supplements and/or Fosomax plus vitamin D? Links on osteoporosis: http://odp.od.nih.gov/consensus/cons/111/111_statement.htm 111. Osteoporosis Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference Statement March 27-29, 2000 http://www.vh.org/Providers/ClinRef/FPHandbook/Chapter07/14-7.html Gynecology: Osteoporosis http://www.osteo.org/ http://www.springnet.com/ce/p803b.htm Administering Steroids Successfully More info on osteoporosis searching google.com also try the NG sci.med.diseases.osteoporosis Ellis Ellis
Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.
Hiya – I have been taking daily Prednisone for the last three years. I have taken a max of 90mg (when I had pneumonia) to my lowest at 20mg. (I actually went lower than that once taking a hopefully-coming-out-soon inhaler called mometasone, but that doesnt really count). The main side effects I have, is hunger, major weight gain, a bit of adult acne and hair thinning. My hair hasnt fallen out in clumps but there are some sorta bare spots. I cant tell you what you should do, but in my case I really had no choice. I was going to the ER at least twice a week and wasn’t getting any better. Im still on disability for the asthma, and I also take, daily, proventil neb, atrovent neb, claritin d, prilosec, flovent 220 x2 and serevent x2. For me, the choice was steroids or breathing. I hope this has helped you. If you have any questions please feel free to ask, or email me. Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )
I’ve been on prednisone now for 12 years continuously, at varying dosages most of them above 50 mg a day. I have basically had no side effects, I don’t get depression, mood swings or any other of the emotional effects. I haven’t developed diabetes or cataracts. I have slight osteoporosis but this has not got any worse in the last 6 years since I’ve been taking calcium and calcitriol. I know I’m one of the lucky ones who hasn’t had any major problems but there must be more of us around. Hope this helps a little Renae
: Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you : post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list : of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using : Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B. If you can make a decision you should probably decide not to take it. Most of us take it when there is nothing left to stop the asthma. If you can find some other way to control your astma take it. That said the side effects vary from almost none to perforated ulcers and bowels, physocotic mood swings, mania, depression, weight gain, bone loss, and the list goes on. You can end up with adreanl shut down and not be able to get off it at all. When it is the choice of predizone and breathing I choose breathing. — Gordon W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger :
Hello: I Thank all who responded and those who gave specific personal information a special Thank You. Take Care. B. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.
I was on prednisone for almost two years straight, doses ranging from 110 mg/day to 10-15 mg/day. I had most of the side effects mentioned above plus I had weird skin discolorations in the places that I tended to gain the most weight. Now that I have been off of prednisone for several years now I still have to get bone density tests and cateract/glacoma tested every few years. If I had the choice to take it or not I can’t say that I’d go back to that again, but if it’s the choice between breathing and not I’d take it hands down. -M Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.
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With me it has always been an easy choice- I want to live and therefore breath- inhaled steroids work up to a point and then I need heavy duty/short duration of prednisone. I would talk to Dr. and see what they think about high dose for short time rather then low dose for long time. If Dr. still thinks long term get on the lowest dose you can to maintain. Pam
I forgot to list the side effects that I have when on prednisone. The worst for me to deal with is the emotional roll-a-coaster, and the "foggy" dull feeling that I am missing out on things that I should have gotten. The next is the continuos head ache and stomach problems. then the weight gain (because this lasts even after I am off) and the long term side effects that I have are cataracts and osteoporosis (I have bones of and 80 year old and I am in my 40’s). I have had several "stress fractures". so again if you can avoid it don’t use it. Pam
I lived in Holland for two years, and my asthma worsened to the point where my Doctor prescribed Serevent and Flixotide (Flovent in the US) twice a day along with Ventolin for emergencies. We recognized that the climate was the major culprit, and I decided to move back to the states to the desert of New Mexico. My life-long asthma symptoms are clearing up, and I want to stop taking the inhaled corticosteroid and the serevent. Does anyone have experience with tapering off of these drugs? My stateside doctor certainly hasn’t got a clue!
I lived in Holland for two years, and my asthma worsened to the point where my Doctor prescribed Serevent and Flixotide (Flovent in the US) twice a day along with Ventolin for emergencies. We recognized that the climate was the major culprit, and I decided to move back to the states to the desert of New Mexico. My life-long asthma symptoms are clearing up, and I want to stop taking the inhaled corticosteroid and the serevent. Does anyone have experience with tapering off of these drugs? My stateside doctor certainly hasn’t got a clue!
Current asthma guidelines are that the asthmatic use an Action Plan to adjust medications, based on peak flow readings and symptoms. The goal is to keep lung function in the Green Zone (80% personal best), but at the same time minimize the amount of inhaled steroid used or/and Serevent. Opinions differ as to whether Serevent or inhaled steroids should be reduced first. During an exacerbation when peak flow readings drop into Yellow Zone (50-80% PB) typically inhaled steroids are doubled and Ventolin used as needed. Ellis
Chris Writes: I lived in Holland for two years, and my asthma worsened to the point where my Doctor prescribed Serevent and Flixotide (Flovent in the US) twice a day along with Ventolin for emergencies. We recognized that the climate was the major culprit, and I decided to move back to the states to the desert of New Mexico. My life-long asthma symptoms are clearing up, and I want to stop taking the inhaled corticosteroid and the serevent. Does anyone have experience with tapering off of these drugs? My stateside doctor certainly hasn’t got a clue!
Greetings fellow Chris, I have recently been taken off Serevent and Flovent, I had only taken Flovent for a few weeks before I was taken off of it but the Serevent I was on for a long time. I don’t think I tapered off of the drugs, I think I just stopped them cold turkey. I had no problems with them though, but then again I have been taking various Asthma medications since I was born so I am used to it. Chris Have Asthma? Check out the IRC channel #Asthma on ChatNet. Fun and support for all asthma sufferers.
Chris, The asthma guidelines indicate: If you’re taking none or very little ventolin. First cut down on serevent. If you’re okay after a couple of weeks start cutting down Flixotide . About 25% – 30% gradual reduction over 2 months . Then slowly reduce over another couple of months. Always keep a ventolin on you just in case. It took me ages to find this out! Janet – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I lived in Holland for two years, and my asthma worsened to the point where my Doctor prescribed Serevent and Flixotide (Flovent in the US) twice a day along with Ventolin for emergencies. We recognized that the climate was the major culprit, and I decided to move back to the states to the desert of New Mexico. My life-long asthma symptoms are clearing up, and I want to stop taking the inhaled corticosteroid and the serevent. Does anyone have experience with tapering off of these drugs? My stateside doctor certainly hasn’t got a clue!
YOU SAID YOU WAS LEAVIN’ !!!! doncha hate when people come to yer house, advertise they’re leavin, get in tha dang car… then come back’n stay awhile? JUST when ya get nekkid and start eatin a nuked artichoke, feelin’ like you can breathe agin? ok.. i’m gunna call ya Uncle Buck from this day forward .Yoga helps a lot, and specially CBT. CBT ain’t cognitive behavioral therapy where i come from, Uncle Buck.. and i gotchur CBT !!!! Sagan, and hypochondriac. (no, english is not my mother tongue 
(cept when it’s convenient) and by tha way.. WHO ASKED YA?
I have been on Atenolol 25mg which is a beta blocker and about the lowest dose around, in fact my doctor told me that it has only been around 2 or 3 years. I’ve been taking it for about a year now and I have to say I feel a lot more rested and together than when I was on no medication at all. Panic Attacks are rare now, although I still get bouts of anxiety but I guess that everyone. One thing though, coming off it is annoying because of the shakes but because of my low doasge my doctor said it wouldn’t neccesarily be that much of a problem. Daniko.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Tom I take Xanax and a beta blocker, but I have a pacemaker so the beta blocker is to lower the heart rate when the pacer isn’t doin it’s job…sometimes it fires off to a rate of nearly 200bpm. If you get on a beta blocker, take it at night because it tends to make you tired and feel crappy (due to the lowering of the heart rate). — If you sing a country song backwards, you get your job and your wife back. Hi, Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. I’ve been on 20 mg/day of an ACE inhibitor, and BP varies from 110/70 in summer to 135/85 in winter as measured by home monitor (cause unknown). This is an established cycle over past three years. I almost considered asking to reduce the med, since I got some dizziness when standing when BPs were 105/65 every summer. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. I’m thinking it’s time for a beta blocker, and my doc would likely agree. But I’m athletic, and resting heart rate most of the time is 50 BPM. I’d hate to suffer side effects (ED, loss of ability to do strenuous exercise) to control the fight-or-flight response. Incidentally, my resting heart rate has recently climbed (15 BPM), as it does when I exercise too much and don’t eat enough. One month of no exercise and more food usually get’s me back to 100%. As for the anxiety, I’m looking for comments regarding Xanax, Valium, and/or beta blockers, as well as yoga, biofeedback etc. I’m type A personality, but never get this adrenaline rush unless it’s time to measure BP, or going on a first date Thanks, flighty-mikey
Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues.
Hi Tom. This sounds very familiar to me. I have exactly the same problem/fear though I had more frequent attacks (one every three days) until I started to take xanax and zoloft. I feel quite well now. I’ve found that my dosage is fine, or perhaps in the borderline, at 3.5mg of Xanax XR (1.5-0.5-1.5) and 75mg of Zoloft. Sometimes I take 0.5mg of Ativan if I feel a bit anxious or Xanax IR for special occasions My resting HR is among 60 and 65 bpm, and during a Holter test, it decreased to 40 being asleep, which you know is normal, and increased to 140!!! in the afternoon because of my fear while thinking about the possible results of the test. I also had white coat HBP (140-155 sistolic and 90-95 diastolic), while my normal BP (during a 24h. monitoring was 137-87) and I was VERY anxious that whole day, I didn’t sleep at all :/ (I was not taking benzos). The lowest BP I’ve seen in body was 130/80, one night, after the doc at the ER told me I was not dying (the first time I had a panic attack), I felt so well and happy that didn’t notice they were measuring my BP Yoga helps a lot, and specially CBT. Change your point of view, stop thinking about your health/yourself. This was MHO. Good luck. Sagan, and hypochondriac. (no, english is not my mother tongue
Gary and others, Thank you for the replies. You have eased my anxiety, and all have diagnosed me quite accurately….you’re hired. Imagine being anxious because BP is not 120/80, or because sleep is not perfect, or because resting heart rate increases from 50 to 65 BPM. That’s me. I suspect all of my recent ailments are related to doing too much (running, volleyball, weights), without paying enough attention to food and water intake, and paying too much attention to heart rate and blood pressure. Interestingly, overtraining symptoms (OK, from what I’ve read in the medical literature) include anxiety, moodiness, and insomnia. My sleep in near normal now that I’ve backed off the excessive/obsessive exercise! I have an excellent benefit plan and will see someone in the employee assistance program. If medication is the answer, I will consider it. Thanks again for the replies. I will stay tuned here to keep tabs on all the latest and greatest. Tom – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Tom, it just occured to me that I left out one thing I wanted to tell you. The current zeitgeist in medicine is to treat anxiety with SSRI antidepressants, such as Paxil, Effexor etc, or tricyclic antidepressants, such as desipramine or nortryptiline.. In that you referenced some episodes of what are likely postural hypotension (dizziness when standing), a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) would not be a particularly good choice for you – these drugs have a ‘moderate’ affinity for alpha 1 adrenergic receptor blockade, which is the primary reason why postural hypotension is such a common side effect with these agents. Celexa (an SSRI) is my personal favorite because it is the most selective agent for the serotonin receptor – ten times moreso than Paxil, despite the fact that Paxil is clearly the most potent inhibitor of serotonin reuptake. Potency is mainly a good predictor of adverse events and drug interactions, whereas selectivity will be a better predictor of clinical results. In the slang of the psychiatry industry, Celexa (or lexapro if you like) is more "clean". Having taken many of these drugs myself, I’ve also found that Celexa is the most anxiolytic of them that I’ve tried. Another thing I wanted to mention but forgot – I’ve been taking Xanax for 13 years now, and the dose is still the same, and it works just fine every single day. –Gary
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. Hi Tom. This sounds very familiar to me. I have exactly the same problem/fear though I had more frequent attacks (one every three days) until I started to take xanax and zoloft. I feel quite well now. I’ve found that my dosage is fine, or perhaps in the borderline, at 3.5mg of Xanax XR (1.5-0.5-1.5) and 75mg of Zoloft. Sometimes I take 0.5mg of Ativan if I feel a bit anxious or Xanax IR for special occasions My resting HR is among 60 and 65 bpm, and during a Holter test, it decreased to 40 being asleep, which you know is normal, and increased to 140!!! in the afternoon because of my fear while thinking about the possible results of the test. I also had white coat HBP (140-155 sistolic and 90-95 diastolic), while my normal BP (during a 24h. monitoring was 137-87) and I was VERY anxious that whole day, I didn’t sleep at all :/ (I was not taking benzos). The lowest BP I’ve seen in body was 130/80, one night, after the doc at the ER told me I was not dying (the first time I had a panic attack), I felt so well and happy that didn’t notice they were measuring my BP Yoga helps a lot, and specially CBT. Change your point of view, stop thinking about your health/yourself.
Now that is good advice Sagan, and is also very familiar. Now where have I heard that before?! ;o)
Tom, it just occured to me that I left out one thing I wanted to tell you. The current zeitgeist in medicine is to treat anxiety with SSRI antidepressants, such as Paxil, Effexor etc, or tricyclic antidepressants, such as desipramine or nortryptiline.. In that you referenced some episodes of what are likely postural hypotension (dizziness when standing), a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) would not be a particularly good choice for you – these drugs have a ‘moderate’ affinity for alpha 1 adrenergic receptor blockade, which is the primary reason why postural hypotension is such a common side effect with these agents. Celexa (an SSRI) is my personal favorite because it is the most selective agent for the serotonin receptor – ten times moreso than Paxil, despite the fact that Paxil is clearly the most potent inhibitor of serotonin reuptake. Potency is mainly a good predictor of adverse events and drug interactions, whereas selectivity will be a better predictor of clinical results. In the slang of the psychiatry industry, Celexa (or lexapro if you like) is more "clean". Having taken many of these drugs myself, I’ve also found that Celexa is the most anxiolytic of them that I’ve tried. Another thing I wanted to mention but forgot – I’ve been taking Xanax for 13 years now, and the dose is still the same, and it works just fine every single day. –Gary
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Many physicians are even ill-informed on the full depth and breadth of the subject of benzodiazepines. When *taken for an indicated condition in the amount prescribed* benzodiazepines RARELY show evidence of tolerance or tachyphylaxis (needing to take more of the drug to get the same result). Over about 30 days, and often less, they DO lose their ability to sedate generally, so are not an especially good choice for sleep medicines in the long term – for most people. I work with hundreds of MD’s and can absolutely assure you that a blood pressure of 135/85 is something that they would be UTTERLY unconcerned with. The American Cardiology Association says that ideally one should have the diastolic (bottom number) pressure at 85 or less, so I’d keep an eye on the sodium intake. IF your pressure were to rise further, particularly the diastolic part, the first thing they’d likely want to do would be to add a mild diuretic to your ace-inhibitor, usually hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) As an athlete with a low resting heart rate and a BP like that, you would likely be unremarkable to any cardiologist, and I’ve worked in some pretty fancy shmanzy places where virtually everything was reacted to and treated aggressively. The point: don’t worry so much. If ya can’t stop worrying, get some Xanax or some anxiolytic drug from your doctor – he should be far more interested in that problem than in your enviable pulse and blood pressure. Kudos to you for exercising, it does keep anxiety from getting totally out of hand for a lot of people. I’ll even go so far as to say that if your physician actually agreed to give you a beta blocker with numbers like that (in that the drug isn’t indicated at all), I’d fire his ass. It is clinically dangerous to administer any amount of beta blockade to someone with a resting heart rate of 50. Kindest Regards, Gary You will probably get plenty of "yes" votes for taking Xanax. I’ve heard that the effect lessens if taken regularly. In my opinion, a person with a resting heart rate that hovers in the 50’s ought not to be messing with beta blockers. You may be right, but I don’t think many knowledgible MDs would be unconcerned with a BP of 135/85. Also, as it appears you are mildly over-concerned about the "numbers" that indicate "good health", be aware that beta blockers can easily cause a rise in serum cholesterol levels. That’s what I’ve heard. I’ll pass thanks. Exercising too much and not eating enough do not sound like difficult I have no one to blame but myself. Funny how all of my sedentary friends and relatives all feel dandy 24/7. My New Years resolution on Nov 1: exercise less eat more work less vacation more…. Thanks for the input. Mike Hi, Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. I’ve been on 20 mg/day of an ACE inhibitor, and BP varies from 110/70 in summer to 135/85 in winter as measured by home monitor (cause unknown). This is an established cycle over past three years. I almost considered asking to reduce the med, since I got some dizziness when standing when BPs were 105/65 every summer. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. I’m thinking it’s time for a beta blocker, and my doc would likely agree. But I’m athletic, and resting heart rate most of the time is 50 BPM. I’d hate to suffer side effects (ED, loss of ability to do strenuous exercise) to control the fight-or-flight response. Incidentally, my resting heart rate has recently climbed (15 BPM), as it does when I exercise too much and don’t eat enough. One month of no exercise and more food usually get’s me back to 100%. As for the anxiety, I’m looking for comments regarding Xanax, Valium, and/or beta blockers, as well as yoga, biofeedback etc. I’m type A personality, but never get this adrenaline rush unless it’s time to measure BP, or going on a first date Thanks, flighty-mikey
You will probably get plenty of "yes" votes for taking Xanax. I’ve heard that the effect lessens if taken regularly.
You listened to the wrong people. As a rule no *tolerance* occurs with anxiety sufferers, it’s really exceedingly rare. In my opinion, a person with a resting heart rate that hovers in the 50’s ought not to be messing with beta blockers.
I certainly agree. You may be right, but I don’t think many knowledgible MDs would be unconcerned with a BP of 135/85.
Actually this is well within the normal range, no reason to worry. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. I’ve been on 20 mg/day of an ACE inhibitor, and BP varies from 110/70 in summer to 135/85 in winter as measured by home monitor (cause unknown). This is an established cycle over past three years. I almost considered asking to reduce the med, since I got some dizziness when standing when BPs were 105/65 every summer. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. I’m thinking it’s time for a beta blocker, and my doc would likely agree. But I’m athletic, and resting heart rate most of the time is 50 BPM. I’d hate to suffer side effects (ED, loss of ability to do strenuous exercise) to control the fight-or-flight response. Incidentally, my resting heart rate has recently climbed (15 BPM), as it does when I exercise too much and don’t eat enough. One month of no exercise and more food usually get’s me back to 100%. As for the anxiety, I’m looking for comments regarding Xanax, Valium, and/or beta blockers, as well as yoga, biofeedback etc. I’m type A personality, but never get this adrenaline rush unless it’s time to measure BP, or going on a first date Thanks, flighty-mikey
Many physicians are even ill-informed on the full depth and breadth of the subject of benzodiazepines. When *taken for an indicated condition in the amount prescribed* benzodiazepines RARELY show evidence of tolerance or tachyphylaxis (needing to take more of the drug to get the same result). Over about 30 days, and often less, they DO lose their ability to sedate generally, so are not an especially good choice for sleep medicines in the long term – for most people. I work with hundreds of MD’s and can absolutely assure you that a blood pressure of 135/85 is something that they would be UTTERLY unconcerned with. The American Cardiology Association says that ideally one should have the diastolic (bottom number) pressure at 85 or less, so I’d keep an eye on the sodium intake. IF your pressure were to rise further, particularly the diastolic part, the first thing they’d likely want to do would be to add a mild diuretic to your ace-inhibitor, usually hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) As an athlete with a low resting heart rate and a BP like that, you would likely be unremarkable to any cardiologist, and I’ve worked in some pretty fancy shmanzy places where virtually everything was reacted to and treated aggressively. The point: don’t worry so much. If ya can’t stop worrying, get some Xanax or some anxiolytic drug from your doctor – he should be far more interested in that problem than in your enviable pulse and blood pressure. Kudos to you for exercising, it does keep anxiety from getting totally out of hand for a lot of people. I’ll even go so far as to say that if your physician actually agreed to give you a beta blocker with numbers like that (in that the drug isn’t indicated at all), I’d fire his ass. It is clinically dangerous to administer any amount of beta blockade to someone with a resting heart rate of 50. Kindest Regards, Gary
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You will probably get plenty of "yes" votes for taking Xanax. I’ve heard that the effect lessens if taken regularly. In my opinion, a person with a resting heart rate that hovers in the 50’s ought not to be messing with beta blockers. You may be right, but I don’t think many knowledgible MDs would be unconcerned with a BP of 135/85. Also, as it appears you are mildly over-concerned about the "numbers" that indicate "good health", be aware that beta blockers can easily cause a rise in serum cholesterol levels. That’s what I’ve heard. I’ll pass thanks. Exercising too much and not eating enough do not sound like difficult I have no one to blame but myself. Funny how all of my sedentary friends and relatives all feel dandy 24/7. My New Years resolution on Nov 1: exercise less eat more work less vacation more…. Thanks for the input. Mike Hi, Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. I’ve been on 20 mg/day of an ACE inhibitor, and BP varies from 110/70 in summer to 135/85 in winter as measured by home monitor (cause unknown). This is an established cycle over past three years. I almost considered asking to reduce the med, since I got some dizziness when standing when BPs were 105/65 every summer. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. I’m thinking it’s time for a beta blocker, and my doc would likely agree. But I’m athletic, and resting heart rate most of the time is 50 BPM. I’d hate to suffer side effects (ED, loss of ability to do strenuous exercise) to control the fight-or-flight response. Incidentally, my resting heart rate has recently climbed (15 BPM), as it does when I exercise too much and don’t eat enough. One month of no exercise and more food usually get’s me back to 100%. As for the anxiety, I’m looking for comments regarding Xanax, Valium, and/or beta blockers, as well as yoga, biofeedback etc. I’m type A personality, but never get this adrenaline rush unless it’s time to measure BP, or going on a first date Thanks, flighty-mikey
You will probably get plenty of "yes" votes for taking Xanax.
I’ve heard that the effect lessens if taken regularly. In my opinion, a person with a resting heart rate that hovers in the 50’s ought not to be messing with beta blockers.
You may be right, but I don’t think many knowledgible MDs would be unconcerned with a BP of 135/85. Also, as it appears you are mildly over-concerned about the "numbers" that indicate "good health", be aware that beta blockers can easily cause a rise in serum cholesterol levels.
That’s what I’ve heard. I’ll pass thanks. Exercising too much and not eating enough do not sound like difficult
I have no one to blame but myself. Funny how all of my sedentary friends and relatives all feel dandy 24/7. My New Years resolution on Nov 1: exercise less eat more work less vacation more…. Thanks for the input. Mike – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. I’ve been on 20 mg/day of an ACE inhibitor, and BP varies from 110/70 in summer to 135/85 in winter as measured by home monitor (cause unknown). This is an established cycle over past three years. I almost considered asking to reduce the med, since I got some dizziness when standing when BPs were 105/65 every summer. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. I’m thinking it’s time for a beta blocker, and my doc would likely agree. But I’m athletic, and resting heart rate most of the time is 50 BPM. I’d hate to suffer side effects (ED, loss of ability to do strenuous exercise) to control the fight-or-flight response. Incidentally, my resting heart rate has recently climbed (15 BPM), as it does when I exercise too much and don’t eat enough. One month of no exercise and more food usually get’s me back to 100%. As for the anxiety, I’m looking for comments regarding Xanax, Valium, and/or beta blockers, as well as yoga, biofeedback etc. I’m type A personality, but never get this adrenaline rush unless it’s time to measure BP, or going on a first date Thanks, flighty-mikey
You will probably get plenty of "yes" votes for taking Xanax.
i dunno what the topic is, but xanax ALWAYS gets MY vote.. AYE! Exercising too much and not eating enough do not sound like difficult
not difficult at all.. come live at my house. BADDA BING ! ::tossin backah twinkie:: ~tanya
Tom I take Xanax and a beta blocker, but I have a pacemaker so the beta blocker is to lower the heart rate when the pacer isn’t doin it’s job…sometimes it fires off to a rate of nearly 200bpm. If you get on a beta blocker, take it at night because it tends to make you tired and feel crappy (due to the lowering of the heart rate). — If you sing a country song backwards, you get your job and your wife back.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. I’ve been on 20 mg/day of an ACE inhibitor, and BP varies from 110/70 in summer to 135/85 in winter as measured by home monitor (cause unknown). This is an established cycle over past three years. I almost considered asking to reduce the med, since I got some dizziness when standing when BPs were 105/65 every summer. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. I’m thinking it’s time for a beta blocker, and my doc would likely agree. But I’m athletic, and resting heart rate most of the time is 50 BPM. I’d hate to suffer side effects (ED, loss of ability to do strenuous exercise) to control the fight-or-flight response. Incidentally, my resting heart rate has recently climbed (15 BPM), as it does when I exercise too much and don’t eat enough. One month of no exercise and more food usually get’s me back to 100%. As for the anxiety, I’m looking for comments regarding Xanax, Valium, and/or beta blockers, as well as yoga, biofeedback etc. I’m type A personality, but never get this adrenaline rush unless it’s time to measure BP, or going on a first date Thanks, flighty-mikey
Hi, Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. I’ve been on 20 mg/day of an ACE inhibitor, and BP varies from 110/70 in summer to 135/85 in winter as measured by home monitor (cause unknown). This is an established cycle over past three years. I almost considered asking to reduce the med, since I got some dizziness when standing when BPs were 105/65 every summer. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. I’m thinking it’s time for a beta blocker, and my doc would likely agree. But I’m athletic, and resting heart rate most of the time is 50 BPM. I’d hate to suffer side effects (ED, loss of ability to do strenuous exercise) to control the fight-or-flight response. Incidentally, my resting heart rate has recently climbed (15 BPM), as it does when I exercise too much and don’t eat enough. One month of no exercise and more food usually get’s me back to 100%. As for the anxiety, I’m looking for comments regarding Xanax, Valium, and/or beta blockers, as well as yoga, biofeedback etc. I’m type A personality, but never get this adrenaline rush unless it’s time to measure BP, or going on a first date Thanks, flighty-mikey
You will probably get plenty of "yes" votes for taking Xanax.. In my opinion, a person with a resting heart rate that hovers in the 50’s ought not to be messing with beta blockers. Also, as it appears you are mildly over-concerned about the "numbers" that indicate "good health", be aware that beta blockers can easily cause a rise in serum cholesterol levels. Exercising too much and not eating enough do not sound like difficult
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Although I don’t have frequent panic attacks, my heart races in doctor office, and blood pessure soars. I’ve been on 20 mg/day of an ACE inhibitor, and BP varies from 110/70 in summer to 135/85 in winter as measured by home monitor (cause unknown). This is an established cycle over past three years. I almost considered asking to reduce the med, since I got some dizziness when standing when BPs were 105/65 every summer. Most problematic, not only do I have this anxiety in MDs office, but my HR will go up, at times, when I strap on my home BP monitor. FWIW, I believe I don’t have the most common form of hypertension, but, rather, anxiety about HAVING high blood pressure, as well as some anxiety when it comes to health issues. I’m thinking it’s time for a beta blocker, and my doc would likely agree. But I’m athletic, and resting heart rate most of the time is 50 BPM. I’d hate to suffer side effects (ED, loss of ability to do strenuous exercise) to control the fight-or-flight response. Incidentally, my resting heart rate has recently climbed (15 BPM), as it does when I exercise too much and don’t eat enough. One month of no exercise and more food usually get’s me back to 100%. As for the anxiety, I’m looking for comments regarding Xanax, Valium, and/or beta blockers, as well as yoga, biofeedback etc. I’m type A personality, but never get this adrenaline rush unless it’s time to measure BP, or going on a first date Thanks, flighty-mikey
This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD. While this is not entirely a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, etc. I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance. I am about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. I want to learn as much as possible about the disorder, treatment options, and related relationship issues. Anecdotes about your own experiences and types of Adult ADD/ADHD would be helpful, as would insights into how you all deal with romantic relationships. I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. What were you *like" before your diagnosis, and then after treatment began? Can you give me some specific behavioral examples that illustrate your experiences? Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds, less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted? If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects? I have already been on and have come off Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Topamax, which were prescribed for panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, seriously deperssed, or sexually numb. I don’t want to go through that again! What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does not drive and never has. I suspect that my fear of driving may have something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know. It could also be a phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get behind the wheel of a car. I find it difficult to integrate looking around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating the machinery. Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is killing my social life! Your input would be greatly appreciated. Vik San Diego, CA
This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD. While this is not entirely
a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, etc. I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance. I am about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. Whoa… hold on here… Just remember–you didn’t just "get" ADHD–you just got "diagnosed"–this should be a good thing–not something to freak you out. The key is to realize that you have obviously developed some coping mechanisms since you have made it to grad school–the thing is, some of them are helpful and some are harmful. You will be able to figure which are which as you educate yourself on the dis-ease that you have always had. As for not having medical insurance–shame on you–but BOY do I understand!! (I too am a poor perpetual student–veterinary resident–so a little pay, but not quiet minmum wage when you work it out–thank goodness I get medical insurance through the state as I work at a university). There are programs through the drug companies to provide medication at a reduced or free rate to qualified individuals. Ask the Dr. who diagnosed you to use "samples" when trying a new drug so you don’t spend money on meds that aren’t going to work for you. <<I want to learn as much as possible about the disorder, treatment options, and related relationship issues. Anecdotes about your own experiences and types of Adult ADD/ADHD would be helpful, as would insights into how you all deal with romantic relationships. I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. This entire forum is a good place for anecdotes–but remember that everyone’s experiences will be different–although I bet you will recognize yourself in many of them! <<What were you *like" before your diagnosis, and then after treatment began? Can you give me some specific behavioral examples that illustrate your experiences? I was diagnosed as a 7 year old, but through structure and activity I didn’t need meds until I was "on my own" and having more responsibilities without any "love-ingly nagging" parents to help me organize my time. But some of my symptoms: –the small child lying in the middle of the grocery store aisle kicking and screaming –severe seperation anxiety–camp was a HUGE ordeal–ended up loving it in the end –Very creative ("gifted"), but insisted on doing things MY way –"hyper-emotional" "hyper-mature" –Would rather hang out with just a few friends than a big group (easily overstimulated) –On the go –Happiest "doing" rather than watching (ie–interrupting, 18 projects going on at once, very active in sports) –Impulse spending –Moody–especially PMS –oh yea–had anxiety issues that led to skin picking Since treatment: Straterra 80mg/Effexor 150 +37.5 during PMS/Buspar 20-30mg) –Realize when i am procrastinating (See "Motivation" thread on the forum –Realize when I am interrupting–unless it is something I am really excited about–then usually realize after the fact–oops! –More rational about my emotions, realize when I am heading toward a HULK episode–can usually nip it in the bud–not always… –Activity level still high –skin picking less–again–realize it, but don’t always choose to stop it. –Still moody after big changes in activity (ie–semi depressed after a big project is done…) Basically with meds i can monitor my behavior better–doesn’t always mean I change it as habits die hard! <<Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds,less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted? If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects? I have already been on and have come off Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Topamax, which were prescribed for panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, seriously deperssed, or sexually numb. I don’t want to go through that again! I am less prone to irritability and anger for sure–probably becasue I realize when i am "overstimulated" and remove myself from the situation. I was hopeing to become magically more productive, etc. BUT–not so…. I think the meds make me more "aware" so I can choose to change my behavior–I recommend at least a couple of sessions of therapy to recomment tricks to change your behavior. I am lucky and have had no big side effects with the meds. The dr. has avoided true stimulants becasue of the skin picking issue (anxiety related). I have had night sweats and that is about it. <<What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. All very common with ADHD. Usually treating ADHD (if that is the underlying cause) diminishes the others to some degree. <<One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does not drive and never has. I suspect that my fear of driving may have something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know. It could also be a phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get behind the wheel of a car. I find it difficult to integrate looking around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating the machinery. Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is killing my social life! I think this is probably a learned behavior by now, so treating the ADHD may help you some, but overcoming your fear will take more than meds. I reccomend finding a calm, supportive friend to help you start driving in a parking lot where you don’t have so many distractions. <<Your input would be greatly appreciated. Good luck! Hang in there! RV
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD. While this is not entirely a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, etc. I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance. I am about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. I want to learn as much as possible about the disorder, treatment options, and related relationship issues. Anecdotes about your own experiences and types of Adult ADD/ADHD would be helpful, as would insights into how you all deal with romantic relationships. I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. What were you *like" before your diagnosis, and then after treatment began? Can you give me some specific behavioral examples that illustrate your experiences? Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds, less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted? If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects? I have already been on and have come off Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Topamax, which were prescribed for panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, seriously deperssed, or sexually numb. I don’t want to go through that again! What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does not drive and never has. I suspect that my fear of driving may have something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know. It could also be a phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get behind the wheel of a car. I find it difficult to integrate looking around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating the machinery. Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is killing my social life! Your input would be greatly appreciated. Vik San Diego, CA
Vik <Big Preface No-one here that Ive seen will give you medical advice nor should they. Opinions – at least from me are just that – only opinions. Everyone here seems different but you will be able to identlify The people here are nice </Big Preface I am also newly diagnosed and kinda get the freaking bit but for different reasons. To address the issues I think your looking at re freaking…. I look at this slightly differently. To me ADD has upsides that I havent seen mentioned here. Having said that Im mildly ADD and havent been as obviously hammered as some. Statistically your likely to have an above average IQ. This is a good thing. The ability to hyperfocus is a good thing (if/when you can access it) particularly in conjunction with the IQ thing.If youre interested you can keep many things going at once – and on it goes. For me it aint all bad. I see it a little bit like being colour blind but making up for that by being able to see in the dark. Unfortuneatly the world operates in colour which is where I come unstuck. Im on Dex which basically allows me to see enough colour that I can work with people better. From what Ive seen there are two distinct groups here. Those that have the "H" and those who dont. Im one of the latter. Im probably Hypoactive not Hyper. I tend to have extended vague-outs. Cant comment to much on cost but for me Dex costs AU$23.00/month Dealing with people for me has been *so* much easier for a variety of reasons. All those little things that used to give me the shits just dont any more. Im *much* more patient. I dont interrupt others while theyre talking anywhere near as much as I used to so people dont get as pissed of at me. FTR this absolutely isnt a doped up / drugged patience,its a Im more alert but can deal with it thing. People smile at you in the morning and you actually notice and smile back. Dont know why youd "scare the horses". If you were diabetic would you feel the need to announce it at first meeting? Colour blind, had a heart condition ? I wouldnt/dont tell anyone that doesnt need to know. If you have someone who is getting close to you you might want to prep them with a "how to deal with me" talk but til them its no-ones business but yours. Dex makes me more focused but along with the procrastination I have to work on it. Meds arent,for me, a "cure". The effect is very much like the interrupting thing. I still start to interrupt at the moment but catch myself with my mouth open – I then have the choice as to what to do. If I find a moth Im far more likely to get distracted – realise Ive been distracted and get back to what I was doing. If Im procrastinating Dex lowers the hill I have to climb. The hill is still there but much smaller. Dex,as I understand it,typically reduces appetite. This has been the case with me but Ive always had to schedul meals and make sure I ate them – skinny guy lightening metabolism . One flash and its ash. My Doc here in Australia said that Ritalin is typically given to kids and Dex to adults – at least for the first prescription for just this reason (amongst others). In terms of holding a job Im statistically in the highest earning 10% in the country. I got it without meds and being self taught in my field and I enjoy what I do. Sounds like I make a fortune but have a look at the stats from the US which Im sure would be similar and Im sure youll be surprise how low that number is. I was. BTW – normally Id find this bit *really* tacky. I hate talking about incomes but it does prove you can function and hold down a good job. Re sex drive Some of the meds have the unfortunate side effect with guys of increasing desire but decreasing ability – not sure how that would work with a lady So….there you go …..my two cents worth Rod
As for not having medical insurance–shame on you–but BOY do I understand!! (I too am a poor perpetual student–veterinary resident–so a
Do your student fees include medical coverage? Some do. little pay, but not quiet minmum wage when you work it out–thank goodness I get medical insurance through the state as I work at a university). There are programs through the drug companies to provide medication at a reduced or free rate to qualified individuals. Ask the Dr. who diagnosed you to use "samples" when trying a new drug so you don’t spend money on meds that aren’t going to work for you.
Doctors can’t give out "samples" of regulated drugs, which includes the more common ADD treatments. Bob Kaplow NAR # 18L TRA # "Impeach the TRA BoD" To reply, remove the TRABoD! <<< Kaplow Klips & Baffle: http://nira-rocketry.org/LeadingEdge/Phantom4000.pdf www.encompasserve.org/~kaplow_r/ www.nira-rocketry.org www.nar.org Save Model Rocketry from the HSA! http://www.space-rockets.com/congress.html
There are programs through the drug companies to provide medication at a reduced or free rate to qualified individuals.
If you’re in the US you can check if the med you’re prescribed is on one of these programs at: http://www.needymeds.com/ . Multiple listings of any med means it’s available via different programs. Vashti
. I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis.
Here in England dyke means lesbian. It is an offensive word – like faggot.
<<Doctors can’t give out "samples" of regulated drugs, which includes the more common ADD treatments. –Oh yea–good point! In the veterinary field we don’t have to worry about that so much. Occ. we do get the "drug-hunting" owner. I guess I was also thinking of Straterra in particular.
. I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. Here in England dyke means lesbian. It is an offensive word – like faggot.
It is offensive in the US as well, if, and only if, used by persons who are not lesbians to refer to persons who are lesbians. For example there are numerous motorcycle clubs and bicycle clubs around the world calling themselves "Dykes on Bikes" including one in London <http://www.geocities.com/dykesonbikesuk/. And referring to a pair of diagonal-cutting pliers or the famous earthworks in the Netherlands as "dykes" is not generally offensive to anyone except those who are determined to be offended. — –John Reply to jclarke at ae tee tee global dot net (was jclarke at eye bee em dot net)
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD. While this is not entirely a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, etc. I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance. I am about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. I want to learn as much as possible about the disorder, treatment options, and related relationship issues. Anecdotes about your own experiences and types of Adult ADD/ADHD would be helpful, as would insights into how you all deal with romantic relationships. I’m a dyke, currently single, and I wonder what I can learn while I am still single that will help me navigate a successful relationship in the future – assuming I don’t "scare the horses" with my diagnosis. What were you *like" before your diagnosis, and then after treatment began? Can you give me some specific behavioral examples that illustrate your experiences? Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds, less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted? If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects? I have already been on and have come off Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Topamax, which were prescribed for panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, seriously deperssed, or sexually numb. I don’t want to go through that again! What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does not drive and never has. I suspect that my fear of driving may have something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know. It could also be a phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get behind the wheel of a car. I find it difficult to integrate looking around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating the machinery. Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is killing my social life!
That’s interesting. I was surprised that a friend’s teenager wasn’t raring to get behind the wheel–I asked her about it and she said she "doesn’t multi-task very well" and seemed to be afraid. Kind of surprising because she seems to be the adventurous sort otherwise. Not ADHD–she was evaluated for that and found not to have it. I wonder if you and she are experiencing the same thing? One thing that may help–don’t try to learn in a city–if you can find a friend who’ll take you out far from the madding crowd and let you practice on back roads in the country where you don’t have to go fast or dodge a lot of traffic you can get the conditioned responses down and once you’ve done that so that you don’t have to constantly think about the mechanics of keeping the car on the road and going straight the whole thing may become a lot easier for you. Your input would be greatly appreciated. Vik San Diego, CA
– –John Reply to jclarke at ae tee tee global dot net (was jclarke at eye bee em dot net)
Here in England dyke means lesbian. It is an offensive word – like faggot.
Here in the US dyke means lesbian too. I didn’t mean to imply that I am a kangaroo or something – I meant to explain that I am a gay woman. And in England, where I am originally from and lived for a total of 18 years so far, lots of dykes self-ID as dykes. Lots of lesbians self-ID as lesbians there too. And lots of English queers self-ID as queer. I guess any of these terms are only offensive to those who have not reclaimed the langugage. With that said, while in the UK, I’ve only lived in Sheffield, Liverpool, and London as a dyke – maybe in your neck of the woods (and social strata) the term ‘dyke’ is not the sexuality descriptive of choice. But it is for me. Cheers mate, Vik
And referring to a pair of diagonal-cutting pliers or the famous earthworks in the Netherlands as "dykes" is not generally offensive to anyone except those who are determined to be offended.
Better yet being referred to as being akin to a dike is a *complement*. A dike is considered a great thing and somewhere along the line the phrase was born: "Zij is een dijk van een vrouw" would translate literally as : she’s a dike of a woman, ie a great/strong woman. Used to describe those of either gender in a positive way. Don’t know about the diagonal-cutting pliers though, you lost me on that one. Vashti
Is it possible to manage ADHD without meds? Which meds work – and how? Will I magically be come a more productive and focused person on meds, less prone to anger and irritability, more capable of holding a rewarding job, and more calm/less distracted? If I go on meds, will my sex drive suffer, will I gain weight, or will I have to deal with other unpleasant side effects?
Answering these questions form my experience only: It is possible to manage ADD without meds, until it isn’t. With me, it became much less possible once I had kids. Generic Ritalin (methylphenidate) works great for me and it’s cheap. Yes I did become magically more productive, etc. But I’m still ADD. The differences are usually subtle, but good. My driving got much better. My sex drive didn’t change at all. In fact my meds make it easier to concentrate, so if anything it’s better. No weight gain, sleep difficulties, or any other side effects. I’m lucky, but I think this is the case more often than not.
: This week I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD. While this is not entirely : a surprise and I am glad I’m not Bipolar instead, I am still pretty : much freaking out about what this means and what the future holds, : etc. I am also worried about how the hell I will afford a : psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and prescription meds given that I am : one of the many million of Americans without medical insurance. I am : about to finish grad school, assuming I don’t flunk out. What about your Student Health Centre? Financial Aid may have bursaries for help. That’s how i paid for my eight hours ($1200) of AD/HD testing. The Doc i see who specializes in AD/HD is at Student Health. For the last four years, i have had a job on campus working with students. I have learned a lot about how to deal with such situations. (e.g. finding resources!) What school are you at? : panic disorder – all of which made me either suicidal, catatonic, : seriously deperssed, or sexually numb. I don’t want to go through : that again! The panic/anxiety/depression gets better with meds. Ritalin didn’t calm me down, but Dexedrine does. In retrospect, much of that anxiety is from benig scatter-brained and panicked over feeling like a disorganized walking disaster, i found. The depression was the helplessness over my workload (due to Executive impairments.) You may want to look up the phrase "Executive Function" on GOOGLE, to understand what in the brain is impaired. : What experiences do you have of dealing with co-morbid conditions such : as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. See above. : One last thing – I am probably the only 34 year-old American who does : not drive and never has. I suspect that my fear of driving may have : something to do with being ADHD, but I don’t know. It could also be a : phobia – or simply related to my panic disorder, but basically I am : scared shitless of either killing myself or someone else if I get : behind the wheel of a car. I find it difficult to integrate looking : around me, figuring out which road I need to turn into, figuring out : which lane to be in, watching for small children or red lights, or : obstacles, and signalling appropriately, as well as actually operating : the machinery. Has anyone ever heard of this sort of problem, or : experienced something similar? Now that I live in California, I really : need to get over it and get a license and a car, because SD Transit is : killing my social life! Yup. AD/HDers have a higher rate of accidents — likely due to inattention and/or impulsivity. But with some help and planning, you will manage. <G Emma
I am also recently pre-diagnosed with probably ADHD. For me, this is an incredible relief as the previous Bipolar diagnosis left me with unsuitable meds that didn’t even come cloe to helping me feel and/or be Normal. And when I say Normal, I mean MY definition of Normal. All I need to do now is verify what pill is pinkish-orange and has a ’score-line’ to help cut it in half, with the number 4930 over the ’score-line’ and the letter V under it. Does anyone have a recent PDR they could look this thing up in for me, please? TIA
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am also recently pre-diagnosed with probably ADHD. For me, this is an incredible relief as the previous Bipolar diagnosis left me with unsuitable meds that didn’t even come cloe to helping me feel and/or be Normal. And when I say Normal, I mean MY definition of Normal. All I need to do now is verify what pill is pinkish-orange and has a ’score-line’ to help cut it in half, with the number 4930 over the ’score-line’ and the letter V under it. Does anyone have a recent PDR they could look this thing up in for me, please?
You can sign up for an online PDR here: http://www.pdr.net/pdrnet/librarian
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am also recently pre-diagnosed with probably ADHD. For me, this is an incredible relief as the previous Bipolar diagnosis left me with unsuitable meds that didn’t even come cloe to helping me feel and/or be Normal. And when I say Normal, I mean MY definition of Normal. All I need to do now is verify what pill is pinkish-orange and has a ’score-line’ to help cut it in half, with the number 4930 over the ’score-line’ and the letter V under it. Does anyone have a recent PDR they could look this thing up in for me, please? You can sign up for an online PDR here: http://www.pdr.net/pdrnet/librarian
AWESOME! THANK YOU!
BPD is known to be "incurable". so is cancer, cardiac disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and everything else except the common cold. If you get screwed by the insurance company call the board of insurance regulators in your state and file a complaint contact a lawyer and the newspapers-put some heat on them and they will pay-guaranteed
Thanks to everyone who replied. All good advice. A few comments: I think that I got screwed by my employer rather than the insurance company. It was my employer who CHOSE to switch from a better plan to one that reimburses psych drugs at 50%. There were other plans to choose from and they chose this one. I used to pay 8 bucks for Zoloft while employed by these people under the old plan. Isn’t that kind of like docking people’s salaries? One theory from another employee is that they wanted to cut costs and figured that this plan would screw the least amount of people. PMS method? – I’m pretty sure that the drug is reimbursed at 50 percent no matter what the need is for it. But, I’m not certain about that. Boy am I confused. Generic Prozac? – I wonder why the psych doctor didn’t prescribe that for me. If it does the same thing and is exactly the same, what gives? Another question – is Prozac effective in helping to combat the tendency to get soooo freaking mad and disgusted that your entire body feels like it’s going to go through the roof? That’s one of my symptoms and I don’t mean road rage and stuff like that cuz that’s not what I get upset over. I get upset over nitwits like the people I work for. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -the major affective disorders like bp require an ongoing course of medication which changes frequently and costs money-they take the risk of insuring you ergo they take the liability of paying as well as the asset of receiving premiums LM
effective in helping to combat the tendency to get soooo freaking mad and disgusted that your entire body feels like it’s going to go through the roof? That’s one of my symptoms and I don’t mean road rage and stuff like that cuz that’s not what I get upset over. I get upset over nitwits like the people I work for.
no not really in fact ity may alow you the pleasure of releasing this anger with less concern for your ramifications for doing so-a better plan is to stop demanding that those who do indeed act nitwitlike stop doing so since it won’t happen-you cannot change their nitwitdom but you can change your thoughts about how horrible their behavior is. This is cognitive therapy and it may allow you to stop reacting to others who push your buttons log on to www.rebt.org and get the book how to live with a neurotic by ellis it may be helpful LM
Christine wrote……
<snipped Here’s the real disheartening part of the story – I go to the drug store and find out that my company has switched insurance plans and that I have to pay aprox. $138.00 for a 30-day supply and will get only 50% of that back because it is a psychiatric drug.
insurance and with this plan I have to pay alot more out of pocket if I am prescribed a brand name med when there is a generic available. You might want to inquire about how much they would cover if you were prescribed generic Prozac. Take care!! Jackie ~*~Beyond myself…….somewhere I wait for my arrival~*~
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Christine wrote…… <snipped Here’s the real disheartening part of the story – I go to the drug store and find out that my company has switched insurance plans and that I have to pay aprox. $138.00 for a 30-day supply and will get only 50% of that back because it is a psychiatric drug. health insurance and with this plan I have to pay alot more out of pocket if I am prescribed a brand name med when there is a generic available. You might want to inquire about how much they would cover if you were prescribed generic Prozac. Take care!! Jackie ~*~Beyond myself…….somewhere I wait for my arrival~*~
all good responses but will only add that any doc who claims prozac is really the best drug for this or for you is talking outa paper butt if you catch my drift. Prozac is typically more stimulating then zoloft and if you had severe side effects to zoloft you may not tolerate prozac any better. They both do similar things slightly differently in ones brain. If you have gad the best treatment is a combination of a benzo and an ad med and I prefer the more sedating ad meds for this not the more stimulating ones-if he is so hell bent on the ssri class ask for some samples for paxil as for insurance reimbursement: consider it a terrorist attack on ones well being and medical health-managed care sucks LM ps. don’t let him give you the crapola about using buspar and an ad instead of a benzo-although it can work for those lucky few the benzo alone will help the generalized sensation of anxiety
BPD is known to be "incurable".
so is cancer, cardiac disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and everything else except the common cold. If you get screwed by the insurance company call the board of insurance regulators in your state and file a complaint contact a lawyer and the newspapers-put some heat on them and they will pay-guaranteed the major affective disorders like bp require an ongoing course of medication which changes frequently and costs money-they take the risk of insuring you ergo they take the liability of paying as well as the asset of receiving premiums LM
forgot to mention this… while asking my company’s benefits coordinator what the story was with reimbursement, she asked, "Well, what kind of drug is it – is it a psychiatric drug or is it medically necessary? to which I responded – "IT’S BOTH". Boy, does that make me MADDDD!!!!!<
Well said! P.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yesterday, I met with the ole psych doctor to figure out what med I should start taking for GAD. I had been using Zoloft in the past but didn’t get past 50 mg and stopped taking it because I thought it was causing me to wake up in the middle of the night. While discussing my options with the doc, I asked him (like a always do), "Why is Zoloft your drug of choice for me?" He said that the reason he had prescribed Zoloft in the past was because it has a better track record for people actually getting through the initial side effects than Prozac has AND it has helped to ease many different kinds of anxiety situations (OCD, GAD, panic, etc..) However, his opinion was that thee BEST drug for me to TRY would actually be Prozac. He stated that although Prozac is a tough one to use at first (because of the jitteryness and anxiety inital side effects), in the long run it is VERY effective in treating GAD once it really kicks in. The plan was for me to very slowly ween (sp?) myself on it by starting with five (5) mg. then 10, then 15 and then 20 eventually over the course of 2 months (if that’s what it takes). He said that although not gaurenteed, the chances are high that if I get through the side effects that the drug will do its job well. Anyone agree? I’m kind of scared to death to take this stuff and can imagine freaking out from anxiety.
Prozac is the most stimulating of the SSRI
Can anyone tell me if it is normal that ejaculation is postponed and less powerful when using Zoloft 75mg a day? No, it’s normal to have no ejaculation, and no erection.
is there any sexual side effects in women’s cases? thanks
is there any sexual side effects in women’s cases? thanks
Yes, the big O is difficult to achieve…more so than usual, that is! So unfair: Zoloft effectively takes the edge off daily life, at the high price of diminishing one of the reasons for living!!
I can identify. The thing that saves me from depression depresses me. I take Effexor now (for a couple of years) but it started half way through the Prozac (about 4 years into that 8-year stint). Tried Welbutrin but that made me really crazy. -seph [I'm paul but you already got one, so I'll be seph, as in joseph or persephone] ::: Yes, the big O is difficult to achieve…more so than usual, that is! So ::: unfair: Zoloft effectively takes the edge off daily life, at the high price of ::: diminishing one of the reasons for living!!
Can anyone tell me if it is normal that ejaculation is postponed and less powerful when using Zoloft 75mg a day?
Yes. It’s normal. Supplementary Wellbutrin may help. It is often used to ameliorate the sexual side effects caused by antidepressant medication, and has been shown in numerous clinical studies to be effective for this purpose. Speaking of Wellbutrin, it also so happens that Wellbutrin is an antidepressant in its own right, noteworthy for not having this particular side effect that you are complaining about. C//
Can anyone tell me if it is normal that ejaculation is postponed and less powerful when using Zoloft 75mg a day?
No, it’s normal to have no ejaculation, and no erection.
Hi everyone. 4 weeks off Zoloft(for Anxiety)- coping fairly well, some days really suck and others are fine. Apparently I do my current job to well or the company is desperate for help. I dunno, but I am flattered that I am being asked. My situation is this. I do not need the money ( I guess I could probably make $2. more per hour ) but Christmas is coming – It would help out (If I can stand to shop long enough – I hate the hustle and bustle) I consider myself fairly intellegent and enjoy doing my job well and having people notice. I do want to be challenged mentally as well as with the anxiety. I do want to "HELP" my struggling boss trying to do 2 + jobs. But: I do not want to supervise a bunch of whining brats. I do not to run around the office like my hair is on fire. I do want to sleep at nite. I tend to (Process) things in my head over and over. I have a week to decide. My main concern is my mental health – I don’t want to stir up anything- but yet I don’t know if just taking the EASIER way – Is the best way to go through the rest of my life. (I’m 31) I guess I feel somewhat obligated to try this out (after all "they think pretty highly of me")- the Supervisor said I could return to my current position if I want to -but could I look him in the eye and ask to be demoted? He probably would talk me out of it just as he is trying to talk me into it. I know that none of you know me or the company I work for- but what do you think? Bonnie Before you buy.
Glad to hear you’re doing well off med,and at your job, BUT give it a lot of thought before you take the promotion. I got the shaft recently with a co. who loved me, bragged about me, put me in charge of buying as well as asst. mngr, but, then when I got ill they didn’t want me, harrassed me, lied about me, etc. It’s much better to be loved where you are than to be treated so poorly. My last job before this one, demoted me for getting ill and missing to much hard long hours, and the only satisfaction is knowing you did your best, and whatever makes us ill, we don;t ask for. Mine was asthma, no mental problem at that time. Anyway -Good Luck in your future, and with love and concern I will pray whatever decesion you make that God helps you to make the right one. We are each diff. LOL Charisma
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone. 4 weeks off Zoloft(for Anxiety)- coping fairly well, some days really suck and others are fine. Apparently I do my current job to well or the company is desperate for help. I dunno, but I am flattered that I am being asked. My situation is this. I do not need the money ( I guess I could probably make $2. more per hour ) but Christmas is coming – It would help out (If I can stand to shop long enough – I hate the hustle and bustle) I consider myself fairly intellegent and enjoy doing my job well and having people notice. I do want to be challenged mentally as well as with the anxiety. I do want to "HELP" my struggling boss trying to do 2 + jobs. But: I do not want to supervise a bunch of whining brats. I do not to run around the office like my hair is on fire. I do want to sleep at nite. I tend to (Process) things in my head over and over. I have a week to decide. My main concern is my mental health – I don’t want to stir up anything- but yet I don’t know if just taking the EASIER way – Is the best way to go through the rest of my life. (I’m 31) I guess I feel somewhat obligated to try this out (after all "they think pretty highly of me")- the Supervisor said I could return to my current position if I want to -but could I look him in the eye and ask to be demoted? He probably would talk me out of it just as he is trying to talk me into it. I know that none of you know me or the company I work for- but what do you think? Bonnie
Dear Bonnie, Congratulations on being offered a promotion, I am sure that had to make you feel good Only you can decide whether or not you should go for it. I think it is great that your boss would allow you to go back to your old position if need be. I wish you much luck in whatever you decide!! Take care. Jackie ~*~You may be deceived if you trust too much, but you will live in torment if
Hi, bonnie, Pat yourself on the back for me – it is a tremendous feeling to be noticed and given the chance for a promotion. About ten years ago I was in the same situation and it made me feel wonderful. but for many reasons, one being anxiety, I didn’t accept and to this day I know I made the right decision. Absolutely love my job and wouldn’t give it up unless I had to. Not many people are this fortunate to love their jobs but when you have one you do enjoy it makes going to work much easier. good luck on your decision making and please let us know wht you decide. smiles, elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone. 4 weeks off Zoloft(for Anxiety)- coping fairly well, some days really suck and others are fine. Apparently I do my current job to well or the company is desperate for help. I dunno, but I am flattered that I am being asked. My situation is this. I do not need the money ( I guess I could probably make $2. more per hour ) but Christmas is coming – It would help out (If I can stand to shop long enough – I hate the hustle and bustle) I consider myself fairly intellegent and enjoy doing my job well and having people notice. I do want to be challenged mentally as well as with the anxiety. I do want to "HELP" my struggling boss trying to do 2 + jobs. But: I do not want to supervise a bunch of whining brats. I do not to run around the office like my hair is on fire. I do want to sleep at nite. I tend to (Process) things in my head over and over. I have a week to decide. My main concern is my mental health – I don’t want to stir up anything- but yet I don’t know if just taking the EASIER way – Is the best way to go through the rest of my life. (I’m 31) I guess I feel somewhat obligated to try this out (after all "they think pretty highly of me")- the Supervisor said I could return to my current position if I want to -but could I look him in the eye and ask to be demoted? He probably would talk me out of it just as he is trying to talk me into it. I know that none of you know me or the company I work for- but what do you think? Bonnie Dear Bonnie, Congratulations on being offered a promotion, I am sure that had to make you feel good Only you can decide whether or not you should go for it. I think it is great that your boss would allow you to go back to your old position if need be. I wish you much luck in whatever you decide!! Take care. Jackie ~*~You may be deceived if you trust too much, but you will live in torment if
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone. 4 weeks off Zoloft(for Anxiety)- coping fairly well, some days really suck and others are fine. Apparently I do my current job to well or the company is desperate for help. I dunno, but I am flattered that I am being asked. My situation is this. I do not need the money ( I guess I could probably make $2. more per hour ) but Christmas is coming – It would help out (If I can stand to shop long enough – I hate the hustle and bustle) I consider myself fairly intellegent and enjoy doing my job well and having people notice. I do want to be challenged mentally as well as with the anxiety. I do want to "HELP" my struggling boss trying to do 2 + jobs. But: I do not want to supervise a bunch of whining brats. I do not to run around the office like my hair is on fire. I do want to sleep at nite. I tend to (Process) things in my head over and over. I have a week to decide. My main concern is my mental health – I don’t want to stir up anything- but yet I don’t know if just taking the EASIER way – Is the best way to go through the rest of my life. (I’m 31) I guess I feel somewhat obligated to try this out (after all "they think pretty highly of me")- the Supervisor said I could return to my current position if I want to – but could I look him in the eye and ask to be demoted? He probably would talk me out of it just as he is trying to talk me into it. I know that none of you know me or the company I work for- but what do you think? Bonnie Before you buy. I haven’t decided for sure yet. But I think I’m going to take a
chance and do the thing I fear most. I appreciate all of your advice- I’m going into this with my eyes wide open- and if it doesn’t work out and they don’t let me do my old job- well then maybe it’s time to move on. (I fear that too) I will keep you posted. Best of Health to you all, Bonnie Before you buy.
Hi, There is no physical test (blood, etc.) that can determine if you have OCD. The only way is to describe your symptoms and feelings to the pdoc. You may want to schedule a normal exam with your regular doctor to rule out any other physical problems. That would be up to you. A Zoloft/Xanax combination would be a good first choice for someone with OCD or OCD like tendencies. Why do you think you may have OCD? The symptoms you describe below could be OCD, or they might be a lot of other things. Are your thoughts consistently about "bad" things that may happen, or are they "going over" everyday events and worries? Do you repeat the same thought over and over or do you think about a lot of different things? Do you have any physical compulsions like checking and rechecking things, or hoarding things? I’m kind of interested in this sort of stuff, because I have OC tendencies a lot of times, but I don’t believe I have OCD. I believe I may have a personality disorder that is kind of similar to OCD but is not the same. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have what i though was anxiety attacks. as i have read up on things it appears i have many similarities with OCD. i have been going to a phsychiatrist but he wasn’t really the one for me. he imediatly put me on Zoloft, with out any tests or checkups. I have reaccurring thoughts about everything. i just can’t seem to "get over things". i constantly concentrate on physical flaws i feel i have. i think the biggest problem is dealing with things. i can’t seem to think clearly or objectively. my thoughts are constantly crowded with the same thoughts over and over. the phsychiatrist also gave me xanax, which helps alot, but i have heard bad things about the drug like depression and dependance. can someone please give me some insight. anything would be good right now. — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.
I have what i though was anxiety attacks. as i have read up on things it appears i have many similarities with OCD. i have been going to a phsychiatrist but he wasn’t really the one for me.
Find another pdoc if you aren`t happy with this one. Only a pdoc can diagnosis you. OCD is a anxiety disorder, and you can have panic disorder and OCD at the same time, that is why you need to see a new doctor and get diagnosed. he imediatly put me on Zoloft, with out any tests or checkups.
A pdoc is not going to test you or do a checkup on you. He will diagnosis you by what you tell him. It is always a good idea to go to a medical doctor for a complete physical and to make sure there is no physical reason for your symptoms. A Pdoc will not do this for you. Zoloft can be quite effective for anxiety and OCD. It does take 6 to 8 weeks to become effective though. I have reaccurring thoughts about everything. i just can’t seem to "get over things". i constantly concentrate on physical flaws i feel i have. i think the biggest problem is dealing with things. i can’t seem to think clearly or objectively. my thoughts are constantly crowded with the same thoughts over and over. the phsychiatrist also gave me xanax, which helps alot, but i have heard bad things about the drug like depression and dependance. can someone please give me some insight. anything would be good right now.
It is good to take the Xanax while weaning on the Zoloft. I haven`t seen many people here complain of depression while on Xanax, and if that were to happen there are other benzo`s you can take. You will become dependent on the Zoloft as well as the Xanax, and all that means is you will have to stop the meds slowly when the time comes. Many meds cause a physical dependency and this shouldn`t be confused with *addiction*. If you use the Xanax as prescribed by your doctor you will not get addicted to it. Take care!!!! Jackie
I have what i though was anxiety attacks. as i have read up on things it appears i have many similarities with OCD. i have been going to a phsychiatrist but he wasn’t really the one for me. he imediatly put me on Zoloft, with out any tests or checkups. I have reaccurring thoughts about everything. i just can’t seem to "get over things". i constantly concentrate on physical flaws i feel i have. i think the biggest problem is dealing with things. i can’t seem to think clearly or objectively. my thoughts are constantly crowded with the same thoughts over and over. the phsychiatrist also gave me xanax, which helps alot, but i have heard bad things about the drug like depression and dependance. can someone please give me some insight. anything would be good right now. — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I have what i though was anxiety attacks. as i have read up on things it appears i have many similarities with OCD. i have been going to a phsychiatrist but he wasn’t really the one for me. he imediatly put me on Zoloft, with out any tests or checkups. I have reaccurring thoughts about everything. i just can’t seem to "get over things". i constantly concentrate on physical flaws i feel i have. i think the biggest problem is dealing with things. i can’t seem to think clearly or objectively. my thoughts are constantly crowded with the same thoughts over and over. the phsychiatrist also gave me xanax, which helps alot, but i have heard bad things about the drug like depression and dependance. can someone please give me some insight. anything would be good right now. — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.
Hi, How long have you been on the zoloft? I’m pretty sure that SSRI’s are standard treatment for OCD as well as anxiety. I think luvox is used frequently for OCD. Sometimes it takes weeks for an AD to kick in. I don’t think I have OCD, but being on an SSRI has eliminated 99% of my worries, and ruminations. Haven’t heard of too many people here depressed from xanax. It didn’t affect me that way. If you are worried about dependence on xanax, there are ways to taper off of it. If your still having the recurring thoughts/anxiety while on zoloft after 8 weeks, it might not be the correct med for you. Maria
OCD is an anxiety disorder. Panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, generalized anxiety disorder are all ANXIETY DISORDERS.
First, you should never ever stop taking your meds "cold turkey" You must be weened off by your doc. I quit taking zoloft after I was in remission and then I started on a downward spiral. I’m back on thank God. I don’t know how long you took them , but it can take up to several months to feel an effect. Regardless, if it is not working, your doc can help you switch to something else. Lia
I had no side effects with Dothiepin except cotton-mouth. My friend was on mega-doses of Doxepin as well with no major side effects except for yours but he was able to counter it with a fibre supplement. The *tryptyline drugs are some of the older tricyclics, maybe a newer one would work without the problems. Still, getting a doctor to prescibe it can be an issue. I argued with mine about it but she seems sold on the SSRI’s. The point is moot now as I haven’t had anything for months. Regards, Trevor Ida Kern <clooney…@mindspring.com
wrote in message
news:7if9pn$jv4$1@nntp4.atl.mindspring.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Trevor Lampre <tlam…@camtech.net.au
wrote in message
> > I liked good old Dothiepin for depression but it’s no longer part > > of the in-crowd as it is a tricyclic not an SSRI. I’ve not seen tricyclics
mentioned much in terms of OCD. Me neither. However, one of the best drugs I have ever taken has been Pamelor (Nortriptyline), which is a tricylic. I slept well and ate well and did
not
obsess. Unfortunately, it’s major side effect was that it prevented me from taking
a
healthy constitutional! I tried everything I could think of to stay on
this
medicine but the side effects overwhelmed me and I had to switch to a
SSRI.
They help, but I loved the Pamelor. Ida
Trevor Lampre <tlam…@camtech.net.au
wrote in message I liked good old Dothiepin for depression but it’s no longer part of the in-crowd as it is a tricyclic not an SSRI. I’ve not seen tricyclics mentioned much in terms of OCD.
Me neither. However, one of the best drugs I have ever taken has been Pamelor (Nortriptyline), which is a tricylic. I slept well and ate well and did not obsess. Unfortunately, it’s major side effect was that it prevented me from taking a healthy constitutional! I tried everything I could think of to stay on this medicine but the side effects overwhelmed me and I had to switch to a SSRI. They help, but I loved the Pamelor. Ida
hugs wrapped in a hug: ( kbeth (kb…@asan.com) wrote:
: *HUGS* : -kbeth ) : On Tue, 25 May 1999 01:34:47 GMT, jl…@gte.com wrote: :
:
Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s
:
helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I
:
know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been
:
totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago,
:
too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I
:
really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had
:
some very, very dark moments.
I feel very depressed for some
:
reason (as opposed to being anxious — which I still am, but the
:
depression seems more overwhelming these days).
:
:
My husband talked me into starting back on the Zoloft today (after I
:
*begged* him this morning not to go to work today
:
:
Just venting I guess — I know there’s nothing anyone can do.
:
:
Lisa
— —————————————————— some people say I got no patience. I got lots of patience. I can wait all day for someone else to Brew the Coffee….
In article <374a0b6…@news.camtech.net.au
, "Trevor Lampre"
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<tlam…@camtech.net.au
wrote: Zoloft is an antidepressant so in stopping taking it you have exposed yourself to a downhill slide. The Zoloft might not have been helping with the OCD but it probably was helping the depression. The SSRI’s are strange drugs. They are very selective in how they affect different people, what works for one may not work for another. I confounded my GP with my complaints about the side effects of Zoloft, Luvox and Serzone. I liked good old Dothiepin for depression but it’s no longer part of the in-crowd as it is a tricyclic not an SSRI. I’ve not seen tricyclics mentioned much in terms of OCD. Interactions with doctors are just as problematic. Having a sense of trust and rapport with your therapist is important. I had seen two counselors over the years before my current one. They were as thick as two short planks and I didn’t see them for long. You are quite right to stop seeing one you don’t get on with but please make an effort to find a new one. Don’t cut off your nose to spite your face. If the Zoloft wasn’t worsening your OCD but did help with the depression I’d say to stay on it until you get new medical advice. Go and see a GP (or whoever does this sort of thing where you are) and discuss a change of med. If you still had anxiety you might want to add an anxiolytic such as Xanax to the Zoloft mix or perhaps switch to Luvox but discuss it with a doctor first. Switching meds can be hard. You normally have to wait a week or two depending on your dosage levels to get the old drug out of your system before starting a new one and then it takes a couple of weeks for the new one to have an effect. Regards, Trevor <jl…@gte.com wrote in message news:374bfc28.2519205@news.gte.net… Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago, too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had some very, very dark moments.
Additionally, it is said that it takes 2-3 months on the SSRI’s to see OCD relief…I don’t know how long you’ve been on it, but it may pay to stay on if the side effects are not bad, as it is helping your depression now and could very well help your OCD later… — Charles Phipps cphi…@roadhog.com
Hi it doesn’t sound like a too good idea to me to AND quit the therapist AND the meds at the same time. I have no idea how long you’d been on the Zoloft but it takes long time for SSRI’s to be efficient on OCD symptoms, most people mention at least 10 weeks on the proper dosage… Also it might not be the proper SSRI, it took me three trials before actually finding something (Luvox) that seem to be working. I know how very difficult it all is. If you have OCD you should get in touch with the OCD Foundation (they have a Web site with all kind of infos on how to reach them etc…) and ask them for the adress of a trained CBT therapist near you. I don’t know what your symptms are but talk therapy doesn’t do much for OCD. I have been in talk therapy for over 2 years, even though it has given me some insight on some other problems, it didn’t help at all the OCD. Hang in there, it’s tough but you can get better, Cecile – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<jl…@gte.com
wrote in message news:374bfc28.2519205@news.gte.net… Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago, too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had some very, very dark moments.
Hi Lisa From my personnal experience I know that it takes about 10 weeks for the medication to start working and I know that it seems like forever. Hang in there. Yes I think that it is very important to find a good therepist. Make sure they deal with ocd. Don’t give up because of one person I know there is someone who can help you. It helped me to chat in support groups and talk to others dealing with the same problems. You will feel better!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and when you do, you will get so much more joy out of life than ever before! Take Care
Zoloft is an antidepressant so in stopping taking it you have exposed yourself to a downhill slide. The Zoloft might not have been helping with the OCD but it probably was helping the depression. The SSRI’s are strange drugs. They are very selective in how they affect different people, what works for one may not work for another. I confounded my GP with my complaints about the side effects of Zoloft, Luvox and Serzone. I liked good old Dothiepin for depression but it’s no longer part of the in-crowd as it is a tricyclic not an SSRI. I’ve not seen tricyclics mentioned much in terms of OCD. Interactions with doctors are just as problematic. Having a sense of trust and rapport with your therapist is important. I had seen two counselors over the years before my current one. They were as thick as two short planks and I didn’t see them for long. You are quite right to stop seeing one you don’t get on with but please make an effort to find a new one. Don’t cut off your nose to spite your face. If the Zoloft wasn’t worsening your OCD but did help with the depression I’d say to stay on it until you get new medical advice. Go and see a GP (or whoever does this sort of thing where you are) and discuss a change of med. If you still had anxiety you might want to add an anxiolytic such as Xanax to the Zoloft mix or perhaps switch to Luvox but discuss it with a doctor first. Switching meds can be hard. You normally have to wait a week or two depending on your dosage levels to get the old drug out of your system before starting a new one and then it takes a couple of weeks for the new one to have an effect. Regards, Trevor – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<jl…@gte.com
wrote in message news:374bfc28.2519205@news.gte.net… Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago, too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had some very, very dark moments.
*HUGS* -kbeth – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -On Tue, 25 May 1999 01:34:47 GMT, jl…@gte.com wrote:
Well, I quit taking Zoloft last week because I don’t feel like it’s helping me that much (been wondering if I need a different SSRI). I know it takes awhile for it to get out of the system, but I’ve been totally nuts ever since. I quit seeing my therapist about 6 weeks ago, too — I just did not like her at all (she didn’t "care", IMO). I really, really need to find a good therapist — this past weekend had some very, very dark moments.
Depression 101 is now dismissed. ;-) Jenny Thanks so much for the information. I have one question. You mentioned about when depression lasts a long time. What are the general timeframes for a long time? Leslie – Glen Ellyn, IL *****I myself have never been able to find out precisely what feminism is; I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a door mat Rebecca West 1913*****
Can you remember the last time you felt good? Does it seem like a long time? For some people a week is a long time. For others of us it takes years before we admit there’s a problem. — Cindy Brown Cross-stitcher, quilter, designer, and cat-lover "If you know what you want, then you go and you find it, and you get it…. When the end is right, it justifies the beans!" _Into the Woods_ by Stephen Sondheim
Over the past several weeks, I’ve been reading the posts on depression. I decided this evening that it’s time to speak up. I am a mental health professional, a therapist. Although my primary focus is children and families, I also run our clinic’s Medication Clinic, where I assist the psychiatrist who comes once each week. Personally, I have been taking Effexor for four years due to Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, without Psychotic Features. Now that I’ve stated my credentials, let me make a few clarifications. 1. The predominant theory, and most widely accepted, of depression is that it is caused by a combination of a neurochemical imbalance and poor coping skills. Thus a person may have an imbalance but good coping skills or not much conflict or adversity, and only experience more frequent down days than an otherwise normal person. If that person were to suddenly have a major crisis, he or she would be more likely to suffer a depressive episode. 2. "Clinical" and "chronic" refer to the level and length of the depression. Clinical depression is the type that requires counseling and usually medication. Situational depression results for something going on in the person’s life and usually can be treated with counseling alone. Chronic depression means it has been going on for a long time, usually most of the person’s life. Dysthymia is a mild depression every day for at least two years. Depression can also be related to medical conditions and substance abuse. Bipolar Disorder, or manic-depression, is a chemical imbalance which causes the person to have severe mood swings. It is usually treated with lithium but also responds to some of the drugs that are used to treat seizure disorders. Bipolar Disorder is *not* treated with anti-anxiety drugs. 3. Depression doesn’t always present as the stereotypical tearfulness, hopelessness, and helplessness. The person can be easily agitated and prone to angry outbursts. This is especially true in children. The person can be easily distracted and have very poor concentration. Frequently children are misdiagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) when they are really depression. Children who have to take really high doses of Ritalin or Cylert may be depressed not hyperactive. 4. Several types of drugs are used to treat depression, from the older tricyclics and MAO inhibitors to the newer SRI inhibitors (Prozac, Effexor, Paxil). A new generation of drugs is now on the market that works differently from all the others. These different types of drugs are necessary because each person’s depression is different, caused by a different set of factors. Besides chemotherapy and counseling, increased activity is essential. That’s why doing needlework can help. There are several sites on the web for information about depression. However, if you or a loved one is suffering from a mood disorder, you need to seek counseling. It doesn’t go away by itself. You have to work at it. And it may be some of the hardest work you’ve ever done, but it’s well worth the effort to have yourself back. Depression 101 is now dismissed. ;-) Jenny
: Depression 101 is now dismissed. ;-) : Jenny : : : Thanks so much for the information. I have one question. You mentioned about : when depression lasts a long time. What are the general timeframes for a long : time? Well let’s see….. an abusive childhood resulted in at least 12 years of depression-like syptoms before I was diagnosed upon entering therapy. And the diagnosis was in the Autumn of 1992. Just one example…. ;) Sherri : Leslie – Glen Ellyn, IL : *****I myself have never been able to find out precisely what feminism is; I : only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that : differentiate me from a door mat Rebecca West 1913*****
Depression 101 is now dismissed. ;-) Jenny
Thanks so much for the information. I have one question. You mentioned about when depression lasts a long time. What are the general timeframes for a long time? Leslie – Glen Ellyn, IL *****I myself have never been able to find out precisely what feminism is; I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a door mat Rebecca West 1913*****
(NikoKat) writes: The person can be easily agitated and prone to
angry outbursts. This is especially true in children
It is even more especially true in men…I bought a book about Men’s Depression, "I Don’t Want to Talk About It" and many symptoms of depression in men show up so differently…it even eluded that it can lead to abuse of women and children. Denise in Akron, Ohio X/USA/H2/X13/Y9/1D/XXX/0=/:-D~/L/G-/Wo/D/M/B/b/R+/S+/K-/E/Anthony Hopkins/Robert Naseef/cold pumpkin pie with whipped cream sprinkled with a sugar/cinnamon mix