Question:

Is there any correlation between weight gain and certain asthma medicines like Accolate or singulair.  I know prednisone makes you retain water when you are on it, but does it have longterm side effects in this area, even if one is only on it for a brief period of time at a low dosage?

Response:

Hi Stephanie, I have found a correlation (whether there supposed to be one or not!).  I asked my primary care doc’s nurse, (who is asthmatic and goes to my asthma doc) if she experienced wt. gain also and she said yes, pretty much in hips and thighs…all since taking Accolate.  I also noticed a wee bit of fluid retention after I started Flovent. Patrice – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is there any correlation between weight gain and certain asthma medicines like Accolate or singulair.  I know prednisone makes you retain water when you are on it, but does it have longterm side effects in this area, even if one is only on it for a brief period of time at a low dosage?

Response:

Hi Stephanie, I have found a correlation (whether there supposed to be one or not!).

Isn’t this Testimonial evidence?  A correlation is a Statistical property of a data set, it is defined by the ‘r’ value among others.  Be careful or Diane will jump all over you!  : )

Response:

Do you have something better to add? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Stephanie, I have found a correlation (whether there supposed to be one or not!). Isn’t this Testimonial evidence?  A correlation is a Statistical property of a data set, it is defined by the ‘r’ value among others.  Be careful or Diane will jump all over you!  : )

Response:

Ah ha!  The ‘r’ value in my correlation must mean the opposite of front end! ) Patrice – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Stephanie, I have found a correlation (whether there supposed to be one or not!). Isn’t this Testimonial evidence?  A correlation is a Statistical property of a data set, it is defined by the ‘r’ value among others.  Be careful or Diane will jump all over you!  : )

Response:

I have been on prednisone and i am life dependant.  I have a lot of problems with weight gain.  I also took Accolate but got off of it because it did nothing for me.  I am on flovent and see no change in my weight from that.  A lot of medications make you hungry when your dose goes up.  so you have to watch that.  Good Luck * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

I have been on prednisone and i am life dependant.  I have a lot of problems with weight gain.  I also took Accolate but got off of it because it did nothing for me.  I am on flovent and see no change in my weight from that.  A lot of medications make you hungry when your dose goes up.  so you have to watch that

I have had the exact same experience.  I have been dependent on prednisone for about 5 years now, and have had major weight gain.  My doc tells me to eat the way I would if dieting would actually work (low fat, lots of lean meat, fruit and veggies) so that at least I will be healthy.  She has always been very good and understanding with the weight issue.  My hardest part is the frustration. I also tried Accolate and it didnt help much. I also agree about the increase in appetite! It is another part of the frustration.  You are always hungry and you try not to eat because you dont want to gain any MORE weight.  As if having severe asthma wasn’t bad enough! Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

I am so glad to find someone who is in my position.  I am also a diabetic and I am on a strick diet.  I take insulin 3 timess a day plus check my sugar 4 times a day.  They that diabetics are skinny I think someone forgot to tell me.  I have a great doctor too about my weight.  Do you have any exersizes that you do or can do besides walking.  I can bearly make it up the stairs. Are you on anyother medications?  I have been on prednisone for about 10 years now.  What dosages are you on? * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Do you have any exersizes that you do or can do besides walking.  I can bearly make it up the stairs. Are you on anyother medications?  I have been on prednisone for about 10 years now.  What dosages are you on?

Hiya – Right now I am on 20mg and that seems to be as low as I can go without having an attack.  But recently around Christmas I was very ill with bronchitis (it was starting to turn into pneumonia) and I was on 90mg prednisone, and had to taper down from that. I have been "forcing" myself to move more.  I got a 20 minute Richard Simmons videotape (OK, now stop giggling!).  What my doc suggested is that I go as far as I can until I start to feel uncomfortable, then stop.  When I can – resume again.  Anything is better than nothing.  It took me 5 tries to get through the tape the first time, but VERY slowly, it is starting to become easier. Of course, if you are not OK, you dont do it, you have to know how you feel. My doc has been great about the weight problem, she has helped me try to deal with the frustration of doing the right things and getting no results.  Keep your chin up! Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

Right now I am on 15mg daily.  I was able to get down to 15mg from 30mg only by taking Methotrexate.  Its a cancer drug but it worked.  I was on it for about 5 years.  When I first went on it I lost my hair because it is a chemo drug and I thru up also. My dooctor is trying to get me down farther but nothing has worked.  So now we are trying cutting 2.5mg every two days.  I can’t start this until I get back from my vacation in April. Right now I am fighting with a cold that is soon going to be bronchitus.  I hate being sick.  I am also being put on the Med. Pump for my diabetes.  Did you get any side effects from the prednisone.  I did I look like I am 8 months preg. and I ended up with diabetes.  I have to take 4 shots a day so they are going to put me on the pump.  What fun!!!! * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Did you get any side effects from the prednisone.  I did I look like I am 8 months preg. and I ended up with diabetes.  

Does the prednisone cause the diabetes?? My 16 yr old daughter is steroid dependent and stays on what seems to be relatively high doses most of the time. Her Dr. isn’t happy about this , but says she has to breathe. However he never mentioned diabetes as a possible effect.

Response:

Did you get any side effects from the prednisone.  I did I look like I am 8 months preg. and I ended up with diabetes.   Does the prednisone cause the diabetes?? My 16 yr old daughter is steroid dependent and stays on what seems to be relatively high doses most of the time. Her Dr. isn’t happy about this , but says she has to breathe. However he never mentioned diabetes as a possible effect.

Diabetes is one possible side effect of long term use of oral steroids. You can look up the side effects in the Physicians Desk Reference [PDR] that most public libraries carry. Link: http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/pred.htm click on Adverse Effects Excerpt: "Adverse Effects Endocrine: Menstrual irregularities; Development of Cushingoid state; Secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness; Suppression of growth in children; Decreased carbohydrate tolerance; Manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus; Increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics" Ellis — Free audio & video emails, greeting cards and forums Talkway – http://www.talkway.com – Talk more ways (sm)

Response:

Right now I am on 15mg daily.  I was able to get down to 15mg from 30mg only by taking Methotrexate.  Its a cancer drug but it worked.  I was on it for about 5 years.  When I first went on it I lost my hair because it is a chemo drug and I thru up also. My dooctor is trying to get me down farther but nothing has worked.  So now we are trying cutting 2.5mg every two days.  I can’t start this until I get back from my vacation in April. Right now I am fighting with a cold that is soon going to be bronchitus.  I hate being sick.  I am also being put on the Med. Pump for my diabetes.  Did you get any side effects from the prednisone.  I did I look like I am 8 months preg. and I ended up with diabetes.  I have to take 4 shots a day so they are going to put me on the pump.  What fun!!!!

The usual protocol for tapering steroids is to reduce to 15 mg/day; then go on alternate day therapy at 30 mg every other day; then very slowly reduce the dose down to 5 mg every other day and then go off steroids. Using alternate day therapy is important to stimulate the adrenal gland to start producing cortisone again. Ref: ‘Reversing Asthma’, Richard Firshein DO Ellis — Free audio & video emails, greeting cards and forums Talkway – http://www.talkway.com – Talk more ways (sm)

Response:

Hiya – I am also on methotrexate.  It too has caused me to really thin out my hair and I am very nauseaus (sp?) on the first two days of the week when I take it. My side effects from prednisone have included a dramatic weight gain, and more hair thinning.  My sugar does not go up unless I am on IV solumedrol in the hospital.  Sometimes I have to receive insulin while I am there to control it. But my blood sugar is normally on the very low side, so the orals don’t effect me too much. My doctor also tapers me the way yours does.  She has to be very careful with me, and sometimes we have tapered as slowly as .05mg every 3-4 days.  I have not been able to successfully go down past 20mg without getting sick.  The ONLY time I could was when I was in the test study for mometazone – I was on .05mg of prednisone a day and about to be steroid free, but the study ended and I had to go back up.  Mometazone is supposed to be released in the US by September hopefully.  I dont know if it will work for you (and I sincerely hope it will) but it was a miracle inhaler for me.  I took it in place of Flovent and I was almost steroid free for the first time in 5 years.   If I hadnt told you before, I am 31, and a former professional chef.  I have been on disability for asthma for almost 3 years now – and I am DYING to get back to work. My regimen is: Proventil, Flovent, Serevent, Methotrexate, Prednisone, ClaritinD, and Prilosec (because all the damn meds gives me reflux!). I hope that we can continue to correspond to each other – we have similar lives it seems!! Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

I am 39 a legal secretary I just started back to work after not working for several years I only work 31/2 hours a day.  Social security says I am cured and cut me off.  I went to see their doctors and I was having a good day my breathing was great and when I took a breathing test I did really good.  Of course by the next day I could barely breath. I am on Theo-dur, prednisone, flovent, ventolin, insulin.  I am now sick and have a very bad cold I have to call the doctor tomorrow. It does sound like our lives are about the same.  Are you married?  Do you have any kids?  I am married I have been for 18 years.  I have 4 kids.  All teenagers.  My husband is great about me not feeling that great.  I usually come home from work and take a nap until the kids come home from school. I hope that we can keep in touch where do you live?  I live in upstate New York. * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

i tried to go off of prednisone by doing exactly how you described but it does not work I always ended in the hospital. So now we are going to try this way first. * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Hiya – I live in the Riverdale section of the Bronx, the border between the north bronx and Manhattan.  Nope, Im not married – first I was working too many hours, then I got too sick to go anywhere.  So I live with my Mom so Im not alone in case I get sick. You really do have to be careful tapering the steroids.  It has been my experience that even .05mg too low and you can have serious problems.  If you are lucky,  and you have a good doc, you know how to tell you are going to have trouble BEFORE you actually have it. I also hope we can continue to correspond!! Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

right now I am fighting off a major cold.  I have been home sick from work.  I think it is good that you live with someone because we need someone to help us once in a while.  I bet your mother likes having you around.  I know my husband and kids help me out alot when I get really sick.  I have to get better before april 13 because we are taking our kids on a family vacation before two of them go off to college.  My doctors and I are looking into putting me on pump for my diabetes and they say that I will gain weight from that.  do you get people that don’t believe you that your weight gain is from the meds?  I hate that.  How much methotrexate are you on?  Keep smiling and remember nothing lasts forever.  My favorite saying is Take one day at a time.  that is exactly what we have to do. * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Hi,      It would appear I fit in quite well with this group.  I have severe asthma the chronic facial pain resulted from root canal in 1993.  I am 42 and have been on SSDI since last September although I have been unable to work since last March.  I had been employed since 1986 as a manager for an insurance agency – a job I really liked and had worked hard for my promotions. My asthma began to  deteriorate in last January – I was hospitalized four times last year – twice for pneumonia/asthma & twice for severe asthma attacks.  I have been steroid dependent for well over a year, however, I am trying to taper down slowly.  Unfortunately I have gained an excessive amount of weight – I look in the mirror & don’t recognize the person staring back.  Currently my meds are Theo-dur 450 mg x 2, Accolate 20 mg x 2, Serevent 2 puffs x 2, Flovent 2 puffs x 4, Prevacid 30 mg x 2, Albuterol Sulfate .083% nebulizer treatments q 4-6 hrs prn, Oxygen 3.5 lpm (or higher if needed), Allegra D, prednisone 20 – 40 mg tapering down as tolerated, Methadone 70 mg x 2 (for severe chronic facial pain),  valium 5 mg prn (works well to stop the albuterol/theo-dur shakes if needed), and  finally phenergan 25mg suppositories for nausea prn.  Also, I developed lymphedema in both legs so I have just completed a 6 week course of therapy with the compression bandages, massage, and lasix.  There are some days when it is extremely hard to try & maintain a positive attitude. I am fortunate to have a supportive husband, family, and friends.   My pulmonologist had suggested a trial of metotrexate, however, I am somewhat apprehensive to try.  It seems like I already have enough "side effects" from my other meds to add any addtional ones.        I have found it to be very supportive to talk to others with similar problems – please feel free to e-mail back. Deborah Deborah

Response:

My pulmonologist had suggested a trial of metotrexate, however, I am somewhat apprehensive to try.

Hiya – I cant say positively how the methotrexate would react with your meds, but it has really worked for me.   My current regimen is: Proventil Inhaler as needed, Proventil nebulizer as needed, Serevent 2 puff 2xday, Flovent 2puff 2x day, Prednisone – 20mg, Claritin D-24, Prilosec (for reflux), and the methotrexate. With Methotrexate you have to have a liver function test once a month to make sure your liver is OK.  Other than that, and nausea on my first day, I have no other symptoms or side effects.  It has really helped me while I am waiting for Mometasone to be approved by the FDA.  I did the trial study on that and I was totally OFF prednisone for the first time in years. I, too, have had the massive weight gain, and hair loss from the steroids. When people question me on it, I look them square in the eye and say "I’d rather be fat than not breathe".  They usually dont know what to say after that.  :) Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

With Methotrexate you have to have a liver function test once a month to make sure your liver is OK.  Other than that, and nausea on my first day, I have no other symptoms or side effects.  It has really helped me while I am waiting for Mometasone to be approved by the FDA.  I did the trial study on that and I was totally OFF prednisone for the first time in years.

Hi Nancy,       How does the Methotrexate work to improve your asthma? Also, what is Mometasone?  I have been reading about anti -IgE injections which seem promising in the current trials.  Researchers have indicated this drug stops the asthma attacks in adults & children without major side effects.  The drug has not been approved by the FDA, however, it could be approved within a year or two. (hopefully one year)        I like your response regarding excessive weight gain – still, there are so many people (like friends & previous co-workers) with absolutely no idea as to the side effects of prednisone.  I know the added weight adds an additional strain on my heart & lungs, however, I have determined that with my slow metabolism (from the strong narcotics for facial pain) and the increase in appetite  from prednisone – I would have to "starve" to lose even a few pounds.  As for exercise, I have been reduced to a wheelchair on some days due to SOB.      Thanks for your response – keep in touch.   Take care, Deborah

Response:

Hi Deborah – How does the Methotrexate work to improve your asthma?

To be honest, Im not totally sure.  My doc suggested it, as my other regimen wasn’t working, my pulmonary functions were still pretty low.  I take 7 pills once a week.  I believe that it is a cancer drug and used in chemotherapy.  I think it has to do with anti-inflammatory properties, but again, Im really not sure. Im going to the doc tomorrow, and I will ask her. Also, what is Mometasone?

Mometasone was an inhaled steroid that I was in the test group for.  I used it over last winter and summer and I was totally OFF prednisone for the first time in 3 years.  It is currently waiting for FDA approval.  This was a lifesaver for me.  Flovent helps me somewhat, but even with Flovent AND methotrexate I cant go below 20mg of prednisone without getting an attack. I have been reading about anti -IgE injections which seem promising in the current trials.  Researchers have indicated this drug stops the asthma attacks in adults & children without major side effects.

Sounds very interesting.  I will be asking her about that too.  My doc is very big into research and she usually knows all about this stuff. Believe me, I know how you feel with the weight gain, and not being able to help yourself with it.  It is a vicious circle we run in.  The steroids make you gain weight, the weight makes your asthma worse, which makes you need more steroids, etc etc. Yes, I have run into people, yes including family, who either dont believe or really dont understand that the weight gain is from the steroids.  EVEN when you can see my thinning hair!!  What, Im just unlucky, im fat and losing my hair??? I dont think so! I will share with you what my doctor told me.  She told me to follow an eating plan that I would follow if I WAS able to lose weight.  (I, personally, find Weight Watchers to be the best plan).  Her theory is that you should eat right, low fat, low sugar and even though you wont lose weight NOW, you will when you can go down on the steroids, and you will be keeping yourself HEALTHY (nutrition wise), which is more important. Then, if you DO either get off the steroids or go on a low dose, you will already have great eating habits!  I still go to the WW meetings when I can, and the leader has been really helpful.  She knows the situation and has even talked to my doctor. She knows how frustrated I get, and celebrates the tiniest weight loss with me!! I hope this info has helped you, and I hope you get better!! Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

Hi guys,    I am just tapering down from 180mg of prednisone.  I just got out of the hospital.  I have to say I even lost weight.  I was put on a 1200 calorie diet, low carb and low fat because of the diabetes, the more I taper the more weight I lose.  I also took Chefck advice and bought an exercise tape and do what I can. some days its only working with the weights other days I just watch.  I know eventually I will end up in a wheelchair because omy bone density is getting worse.  But I am going to go down fighting.  So do not give up. * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Question:

says… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). 20 years from the date it was filed with the patent office.  There are a few ways to extend them to a certain extent, if the patent office was really slow, or it took forever to get FDA approval. I thought so. Now, what if they "enhance" the design of the originally patented technology. Does the 20-year clock start over? I’m asking because it sounds like that’s what ALZA did for Concerta. They took their original design and added a coating of med on the outside so that it would release an initial dose of medication.

In that case I suspect that the patent is on the coating technology. — — –John Reply to jclarke at eye bee em dot net

Response:

The Concerta web page says that if you take 15 mg Methylphenidate 2x/day or 15 mg Methylphenidate 3x/day or 60 mg Methylphenidate-SR, then you should take  54 mg of Concerta every morning by taking a 36 mg and an 18 mg at the same time. Daily dosage above 54 mg is not recommended. The URL is http://www.concerta.net/info.html Katswan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, I am going to my Doctor tomorrow, and he has expressed interest in trying Concerta. I have a question on this, however. I am an adult, 31 years old. I have been on 20mg (non-SR) Ritalin 3 times a day (60 mg total per day) for the past 5 years. Considering this, what dosage of Concerta should I be on? The 60 mg per day worked fine for me, but I dont see how that dose (per day) can be obtained from the size tablets being offered right now for Concerta (only 18mg or 36mg). I am at a total loss as to why there is no good indicators of what an adult should be taking for Concerta, if (s)he is coming from a regular release Ritalin dosage of 60mg per day? Taking 2 x 36mg. Concerta might be considered to be too high of a dose. There is a new 54mg coming out (I am wondering if it is out yet… possibly). But would this be enough for me? Also, I can find no literature that talks about how much (in mg) is released on the outside-coating ‘immediate release’ of Concerta tabs, and then, how much is released in each remaining layer (2 more layers), and at what time are they released? I went to Concerta.net, but cannot find any data that answers these questions. Can anyone provide some answers to these questions? Thanks. Chris

Response:

I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? <Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old. (Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication.

When a new med is developed, that company that developed it has exclusive rights to market it, as with any patented invention. After, I think, 20 or 30 years or so, they lose the exclusivity and other products can copy their design/formula. They can also "lease" the right to use the patented formula/design during their exclusive rights period. ALZA’s web site says that their OROS delivery system has been used for 20 years, but that Concerta uses an enhanced OROS system, so the clock may have restarted ticking, it may be like a new patent. Most health/medical insurance policies push generics (list of covered meds). When my daughter was on Ritalin, I had to make certain the doctor put "Brand name medically necessary" on every prescription, or our previous insurance company would only pay for the generic, since it was available. To get our new insurance company to pay for Concerta, we had to jump through some hoops. The doctor had to write a letter (for which I had to provide him information since we’re new to the practice), detailing all the meds daughter has been on, why they weren’t effective or were problematic, and why we think Concerta will be different. Since daughter’s tried everything, they approved our request and are paying for Concerta. They did not approve it for son, however, as he hasn’t tried Ritalin-SR (much cheaper than Concerta and theoretically similar). I won’t put him on Ritalin-SR, however, because I think the dose is too high for him. When he was on Ritalin, he took 5mg 3x/day. He currently takes 5mg Adderall 2x/day. No way do these dosages compare to 20 mg R-SR, which would be expected to dump 20mg of meds into his system in 4 hours less than he got 15mg of meds (and twice as much meds as he’s taking now). He doesn’t need more med, he needs it spread over a longer day. So I paid for his first month’s Rx for Concerta (nearly $70). Now that we know it’s working well for him, the doctor will write another letter requesting approval. Katswan

Response:

<part of reply snipped They did not approve it for son, however, as he hasn’t tried Ritalin-SR (much cheaper than Concerta and theoretically similar). I won’t put him on Ritalin-SR, however, because I think the dose is too high for him. When he was on Ritalin, he took 5mg 3x/day. He currently takes 5mg Adderall 2x/day. No way do these dosages compare to 20 mg R-SR, which would be expected to dump 20mg of meds into his system in 4 hours less than he got 15mg of meds (and twice as much meds as he’s taking now). He doesn’t need more med, he needs it spread over a longer day. So I paid for his first month’s Rx for Concerta (nearly $70). Now that we know it’s working well for him, the doctor will write another letter requesting approval. Katswan

Thanks for the reply. It is something for me to think about.        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? <Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old. (Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication. When a new med is developed, that company that developed it has exclusive rights to market it, as with any patented invention. After, I think, 20 or 30 years or so, they lose the exclusivity and other products can copy their design/formula.

A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). Copyrights last longer than patents and can be renewed.  Copyrights don’t cover the same thing; they protect expressions of ideas, like books or pictures. Patents give companies (or people) the exclusive right to construct or sell or use a process or principle of operation. However, to get copyright protection for a period, you must disclose exactly how to do it, and anyone can get copies from the patent office after it has expired. Alternatively, companies can just keep things secret.  These are trade secrets, but if someone else comes up with the same idea, the company has nothing they can legally do about it. -Chris Eliot

Response:

says… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? <Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old. (Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication. When a new med is developed, that company that developed it has exclusive rights to market it, as with any patented invention. After, I think, 20 or 30 years or so, they lose the exclusivity and other products can copy their design/formula. A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). Copyrights last longer than patents and can be renewed.  Copyrights don’t cover the same thing; they protect expressions of ideas, like books or pictures. Patents give companies (or people) the exclusive right to construct or sell or use a process or principle of operation. However, to get copyright protection for a period, you must disclose exactly how to do it, and anyone can get copies from the patent office after it has expired.

Well, sorta.  The "game", I am told by folks who have cause to know such things, is to tell enough to get the patent but not enough that someone can reproduce the technology.  Georgia Tech has a course in which you are given a patent and required to design a working device based on that patent.  It very quickly becomes evident how much information is _not_ included in the patent.  Of course this assumes that the device described by the patent will actually work.  One engineer I knew collected whacky patents for stuff that couldn’t possibly work–had his office wallpapered with them. Alternatively, companies can just keep things secret.  These are trade secrets, but if someone else comes up with the same idea, the company has nothing they can legally do about it. -Chris Eliot

– — –John Reply to jclarke at eye bee em dot net

Response:

We switched daughter back to Adderall this morning largely based on what daughter was telling us. It just wasn’t working for her. Now we her taking 30 long however I wonder if she can take another 20 mg dose around 2PM? Is there an Adderall website?? Is anyone taking Adderall this way, three doses a day? Last time we talked to her doctor we found that she was splitting her afternoon dose by taking 10 mg at lunch plus 10 mg later in the afternoon which the the lower split dose. This was one of the reasons he suggested trying Concerta

Response:

A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly).

20 years from the date it was filed with the patent office.  There are a few ways to extend them to a certain extent, if the patent office was really slow, or it took forever to get FDA approval.

Response:

A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). 20 years from the date it was filed with the patent office.  There are a few ways to extend them to a certain extent, if the patent office was really slow, or it took forever to get FDA approval.

Really?? OK, I didn’t think it was so long.

Response:

A patent does not last 20 or 30 years.  It is something like 7 or 11 years, (I don’t remember exactly). 20 years from the date it was filed with the patent office.  There are a few ways to extend them to a certain extent, if the patent office was really slow, or it took forever to get FDA approval.

I thought so. Now, what if they "enhance" the design of the originally patented technology. Does the 20-year clock start over? I’m asking because it sounds like that’s what ALZA did for Concerta. They took their original design and added a coating of med on the outside so that it would release an initial dose of medication. Katswan

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level As a medic, I would recommend talking to her Dr first. PDR’s should be available at most libraries. While my USP DI is a bit old (1996, they ain’t cheap), the usual pediatric dose for 6 years of age and older for Adderall, states that the dose does not usually exceed 40 mg daily. Concerta is not listed, as it is newer than my book. I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this.

That’s how our pediatrician explained it to us. — Light, Love, & Laughter, Kitten, Goddess of Mischief "Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this." – Anonymous "Just for today, do not worry;  Just for today, do not anger; Earn your living honestly; Honor your parents, teachers and elders; Show gratitude for every living thing."- Dr. Mikao Usui

Response:

As a medic, I would recommend talking to her Dr first. PDR’s should be available at most libraries.

Concerta does not appear in our Libraries 2000 PDR and of course although I have to talk to her psychiatrist before we increase (ie to get a script) I was wondering if increasing the dose was an option. I don’t think she gets the kick (maybe poor choice of words) that she got from the Adderall. The Concerta is probably much slower and more gradual delivery and change in the blood level.

Response:

I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this. That’s how our pediatrician explained it to us.

I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta?  Curious,            Norma        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

I got confused about the attributions here.  Sorry if I’m misquoting. I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this.

That’s how we’ve switched dosages here. Son went from 5mg Ritalin 3x/day to 5mg Adderall 2x/day (but really needing a 3rd dose too late to give it to him) to 18mg Concerta 1x/day. Daughter went from 20mg Ritalin-SR in the AM plus 10mg Ritalin regular in the PM (and still never being stable in the meds’ effects) to 10mg Adderall 2x/day (but really needing a third dose too late to give it to her) to 36mg Concerta 1x/day. That’s how our pediatrician explained it to us.

I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta?

Well, the med in Concerta is methylphenidate HCl (a form of Ritalin), so it’s already a generic. The delivery system in the body is what is unique and what makes it so expensive. It’s called OROS and was developed by ALZA. It’s been used to deliver other medications for about 20 years, although it’s been enhanced for Concerta to give an intial "shot" of medication. I’m sure ALZA with hold on to the rights/patents for as long as they can. Here’s ALZA’s Concerta web site URL: http://www.concerta.net/index.htm Katswan

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this. That’s how our pediatrician explained it to us. I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta?

No, it is brand new, less than one year old. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  Curious,            Norma        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? <Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old. (Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication.

The patents have to expire first, and that takes a number of years. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

Hello, I am going to my Doctor tomorrow, and he has expressed interest in trying Concerta. I have a question on this, however. I am an adult, 31 years old. I have been on 20mg (non-SR) Ritalin 3 times a day (60 mg total per day) for the past 5 years. Considering this, what dosage of Concerta should I be on? The 60 mg per day worked fine for me, but I dont see how that dose (per day) can be obtained from the size tablets being offered right now for Concerta (only 18mg or 36mg). I am at a total loss as to why there is no good indicators of what an adult should be taking for Concerta, if (s)he is coming from a regular release Ritalin dosage of 60mg per day? Taking 2 x 36mg. Concerta might be considered to be too high of a dose. There is a new 54mg coming out (I am wondering if it is out yet… possibly). But would this be enough for me? Also, I can find no literature that talks about how much (in mg) is released on the outside-coating ‘immediate release’ of Concerta tabs, and then, how much is released in each remaining layer (2 more layers), and at what time are they released? I went to Concerta.net, but cannot find any data that answers these questions. Can anyone provide some answers to these questions? Thanks. Chris

Response:

I am going to my Doctor tomorrow, and he has expressed interest in trying Concerta. I have a question on this, however. I am an adult, 31 years old. I have been on 20mg (non-CR) Ritalin 3 times a day (60 mg total per day) for the past 5 years. What dosage of Concerta should I be on? The 60 mg per day worked fine for me, but I dont see how that dose (per day) can be obtained from the size tablets being offered right now for Concerta (18 or 36mg).

From what our pediatrician told us about the conversion from Ritalin to Concerta, you would need 2 36mg caplets in the morning to receive the equivalent of your current 60mg/day of Ritalin.  (18mg Concerta = 15mg {3 5mg doses} Ritalin) I am at a total loss as to why there is no good indicators of what an adult should be taking for Concerta, if (s)he is coming from a regular release Ritalin dosage of 60mg per day? Taking 2 36mg. Concerta might be considered to be too high of a dose. There is a new 54mg coming out (maybe out now, possibly). But would this be enough?

With the conversion above, I don’t see how 2 36mg would be considered too high.  It’s an equivalent dosage to what you are currently taking. Also, I can find no literature that talks about how much (in mg) is released on the outside coating immediate release of Concerta tabs, and then, how much is released in each remaining layer (2 more layers), and at what time are they released? I went to Concerta.net, but cannot find any of this data. Can anyone provide some info on this?

I’ve a pdf on Concerta.  I’m not sure if it has the info you’re looking for, but if you’d like me to email it to you, let me know. — Light, Love, & Laughter, Kitten, Goddess of Mischief "Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this." – Anonymous "Just for today, do not worry;  Just for today, do not anger; Earn your living honestly; Honor your parents, teachers and elders; Show gratitude for every living thing."- Dr. Mikao Usui

Response:

I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta?

<Christopher wrote No, it is brand new, less than one year old.

(Curious again) How long does it take for a generic to be approved and shipping? I think only generics are approved for the type of insurance my daughter has, unless there is a good reason she has to take a brand name medication.        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

I am going to my Doctor tomorrow, and he has expressed interest in trying Concerta. I have a question on this, however. I am an adult, 31 years old. I have been on 20mg (non-CR) Ritalin 3 times a day (60 mg total per day) for the past 5 years. What dosage of Concerta should I be on? The 60 mg per day worked fine for me, but I dont see how that dose (per day) can be obtained from the size tablets being offered right now for Concerta (18 or 36mg). I am at a total loss as to why there is no good indicators of what an adult should be taking for Concerta, if (s)he is coming from a regular release Ritalin dosage of 60mg per day? Taking 2 36mg. Concerta might be considered to be too high of a dose. There is a new 54mg coming out (maybe out now, possibly). But would this be enough? Also, I can find no literature that talks about how much (in mg) is released on the outside coating immediate release of Concerta tabs, and then, how much is released in each remaining layer (2 more layers), and at what time are they released? I went to Concerta.net, but cannot find any of this data. Can anyone provide some info on this? Thanks. Chris

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just had a thought, they have generic Ritalin SR, do they have it yet for Concerta? Well, the med in Concerta is methylphenidate HCl (a form of Ritalin), so it’s already a generic. The delivery system in the body is what is unique and what makes it so expensive. It’s called OROS and was developed by ALZA. It’s been used to deliver other medications for about 20 years, although it’s been enhanced for Concerta to give an intial "shot" of medication. I’m sure ALZA with hold on to the rights/patents for as long as they can. Here’s ALZA’s Concerta web site URL: http://www.concerta.net/index.htm Katswan

Thanks for the info.        Norma   <Sigline space for rent

Response:

Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level

Response:

Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level

Have you talked to her doctor?   Nessa — Life’s a dance. You learn as you go. Sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow Don’t worry ’bout what you don’t know, life’s a dance you learn as you go!

Response:

Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level

As a medic, I would recommend talking to her Dr first. PDR’s should be available at most libraries. While my USP DI is a bit old (1996, they ain’t cheap), the usual pediatric dose for 6 years of age and older for Adderall, states that the dose does not usually exceed 40 mg daily. Concerta is not listed, as it is newer than my book. The dosage info for Adderal is backed by the PDR info at: http://www.healthsquare.com/drugmain.htm You should also be able to find the info on Concerta there. Chewy — Kitten’s Main Squeeze We live in a technological society that creates many illusions of reality…it’s the most irresponsible behaving entity that ever lived on this planet.  This civilization is not about responsibility, it’s about guilt, sin, blame and aggressive bad behavior.  That is the shadow world… The real world is about fulfilling our responsibility to life. — John Trudell

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone know of a free online PDR reference for Concerta and Adderall? We are at 56 mg/day on a 14yr old and wonder if we have the option of increasing or possibly we may end up going back to the Adderall and try to figure out a better way of managing its level As a medic, I would recommend talking to her Dr first. PDR’s should be available at most libraries. While my USP DI is a bit old (1996, they ain’t cheap), the usual pediatric dose for 6 years of age and older for Adderall, states that the dose does not usually exceed 40 mg daily. Concerta is not listed, as it is newer than my book.

I saw a company chart comparing 18 mg concerta with 5 mg Ritalin taken three times a day. My guess is that there is some loss due to the special delivery capsule, and that otherwise you can do very rough dosing estimates by comparing 18 mg concerta to 15 mg Ritalin spread out over a day.  This is only my guess, though; no one who understands about it has told me anything like this. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The dosage info for Adderal is backed by the PDR info at: http://www.healthsquare.com/drugmain.htm You should also be able to find the info on Concerta there. Chewy — Kitten’s Main Squeeze We live in a technological society that creates many illusions of reality…it’s the most irresponsible behaving entity that ever lived on this planet.  This civilization is not about responsibility, it’s about guilt, sin, blame and aggressive bad behavior.  That is the shadow world… The real world is about fulfilling our responsibility to life. — John Trudell

Response:

Question:

I am a 23 year old Belgian girl, suffering already 5 years from IBS. The last year has been very bad for me. My biggest problem is the frequent diarrhea ( Imodium, Imodium, Imodium, ..). But also the fear of having an attack is always there.It’s so bad right now that I barely come out of the house anymore. If I really have to go out, I am feeling very, very sick ( diarrhea and nausea ). I had to quit my study, I couldn’t cope with the exams and the stress. I can’t work. Nobody believes that. Even the doctors say there is nothing fysical wrong with me. But I feel so damn sick every second of every day ! I have no friends anymore. That’s not really a surprise. I can’t enjoy myself, I don’t want to eat in public. I even don’t eat at home if I am not alone. For me: eating is being sick. I barely eat anything. Isn’t there a good medication that helps for IBS and especially for nervous diarrhea ?  The doctors say that it doesn’t exist and that I just have to learn to live with it. I take Xanax for the anxiety ( it doesn’t work). I’ve already tried two antidepressants: Cipramil and Paxil, but they made me so ill I had to stop taking it. On bad days I am taking Duspatal, Spasmomen or Dicetel. But neither of them works for me. And of course ther is also my dear friend Imodium. It can’t go on like this. I don’t call this a life anymore, it’s hell. But what more can I try??? P.S.  I’ve also had those terrible medical tests in hospital. Nothing special was found. I have had IBS since age 16 when it wad first diagnosed. Sometimes I find that  the stress of worrying that an attack will come, in and of itself brings it  on! Its a lose-lose situation. Lately I have found that meditation helps me a lot. Also the exercises I  learned years ago in Lamaze class. DEEP breathing through the nose, hold it  for a bit, then exhale through the mouth, helps at least while in the midst of  an attack. BTW here in the USA we have generic brands of Imodium which I stock  up on (since its cheaper and I use so much of it!) Maybe those of us with IBS  need to buy stock in the company <sigh

.

I wish there were more I could tell you to do! Avoiding greasy foods helps too,  since for me, those + stress= IBS! Annette Note: To prevent spam, this address does not accept e-mail. To send me e-mail,  write to me at A76898…@rocketmail.com

Response:

I am a 23 year old Belgian girl, suffering already 5 years from IBS. The last year has been very bad for me. My biggest problem is the frequent diarrhea ( Imodium, Imodium, Imodium, ..). But also the fear of having an attack is always there.It’s so bad right now that I barely come out of the house anymore. If I really have to go out, I am feeling very, very sick ( diarrhea and nausea ). I had to quit my study, I couldn’t cope with the exams and the stress. I can’t work. Nobody believes that. Even the doctors say there is nothing fysical wrong with me. But I feel so damn sick every second of every day ! I have no friends anymore. That’s not really a surprise. I can’t enjoy myself, I don’t want to eat in public. I even don’t eat at home if I am not alone. For me: eating is being sick. I barely eat anything. Isn’t there a good medication that helps for IBS and especially for nervous diarrhea ?  The doctors say that it doesn’t exist and that I just have to learn to live with it. I take Xanax for the anxiety ( it doesn’t work). I’ve already tried two antidepressants: Cipramil and Paxil, but they made me so ill I had to stop taking it. On bad days I am taking Duspatal, Spasmomen or Dicetel. But neither of them works for me. And of course ther is also my dear friend Imodium. It can’t go on like this. I don’t call this a life anymore, it’s hell. But what more can I try??? P.S.  I’ve also had those terrible medical tests in hospital. Nothing special was found.

Response:

Your story is very much like mine!!…Please read "My Story" on my web site. On 28 Sep 1997 20:35:52 GMT, "kathia" <buyens.kat…@medisoft.be

wrote:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I am a 23 year old Belgian girl, suffering already 5 years from IBS. The last year has been very bad for me. My biggest problem is the frequent diarrhea ( Imodium, Imodium, Imodium, ..). But also the fear of having an attack is always there.It’s so bad right now that I barely come out of the house anymore. If I really have to go out, I am feeling very, very sick ( diarrhea and nausea ). I had to quit my study, I couldn’t cope with the exams and the stress. I can’t work. Nobody believes that. Even the doctors say there is nothing fysical wrong with me. But I feel so damn sick every second of every day ! I have no friends anymore. That’s not really a surprise. I can’t enjoy myself, I don’t want to eat in public. I even don’t eat at home if I am not alone. For me: eating is being sick. I barely eat anything. Isn’t there a good medication that helps for IBS and especially for nervous diarrhea ?  The doctors say that it doesn’t exist and that I just have to learn to live with it. I take Xanax for the anxiety ( it doesn’t work). I’ve already tried two antidepressants: Cipramil and Paxil, but they made me so ill I had to stop taking it. On bad days I am taking Duspatal, Spasmomen or Dicetel. But neither of them works for me. And of course ther is also my dear friend Imodium. It can’t go on like this. I don’t call this a life anymore, it’s hell. But what more can I try??? P.S.  I’ve also had those terrible medical tests in hospital. Nothing special was found.

Steven S. Palmer <sput…@gte.net

http://home1.gte.net/sputers/index.html http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/Spa/4001/ ——————————————- Key ID 0×69D430FB Key fingerprint = A706 43EC 13B6 D8E4 9F19  F2D4 63A8 E71D 69D4 30FB Public Key located in the Public Key Directory at:               <http://www.pgp.com/

or e-mail with Public Key as the subject line – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - "I’m sick and tired of having to rearrange my life     because of what the STUPIDEST people *might* do or     how they *might* react."        – Bill Maher

Response:

On 28 Sep 1997 20:35:52 GMT, "kathia" <buyens.kat…@medisoft.be

wrote: I had to quit my study, I couldn’t cope with the exams and the stress.

You will see below that stress is the third most common diagnosis before a celiac diagnosis. I suggest a strict trial gluten-free diet. Top 20 Diagnoses Before a Diagnosis of Celiac Disease 1.  Anemia 2.  IBS 3.  Psychological stress, nerves, imagination 4.  Diarrhea 5.  IBD 6.  Diabetes 7.  Spastic Colon 8.  Ulcers 9.  Virus (Viral Gastroenteritis) 10. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 11. Weight-loss 12. Allergies 13. Amoeba, Parasites, Infection 14. Gallbladder Disease 15. Thyroid Disease 16. Cancer, Lymphoma, Digestive 17. Colitis 18. Cystic Fibrosis 19. Lactose Intolerance 20. Reflux Data from an on-going Celiac Disease Foundation study of 600 Biopsy-proven celiacs. Taken from the Fall 1996 CDF Newsletter. CDF can be reached at:  Celiac Disease Foundation  13251 Ventura Blvd. Suite 1  Studio City, CA  91604-1838  818-990-2354. Newsletter subscriptions are sent to members, and membership is a $35 tax-deductible contribution per year. For more information on gluten intolerance see this page of annotated links:   The Gluten-Free Page:  http://www.panix.com/~donwiss/ Don.

Response:

Question:

My left lung is the troublesome one, too.  Sometimes I feel like I’m not getting any air into it. –Jane

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I only know what the All Holy Geisinger Medical Center tells me! Which at times doesn’t seem like good advice, eh? Like do they know why every winter my son’s left lung swells to the point that it isn’t functioning? Oh no! Just the left one mind you.  Oh well, what can I do except believe every word they tell me. I will tell my son’s doctor your story, if it is allright with you? Thank You, Brandy

Response:

I first discovered I had exercise induced asthma at 38 yrs going to the doctor with what he thought was the flu and I had accepted over a couple of months as who knows, getting older,  but I believed it to be asthma. He gave me inhalers and after 2 months of not being able to function, I asked for Accolate.  At that time I was so bad that I couldn’t believe I would have a normal life again.  After 6 weeks (much longer than I read it should take)  I finally felt normal.  Accolate had worked for me and I went about 4 years without using inhalers unless I did alot of exercise.  I have gone through a few periods of problems, certain periods of being over weight or stress but otherwise I cannot believe how much Accolate changed my life.  2x a day and it works well for alot of people but be sure to use it for longer than the the directions or what you read because if I gave up after a month I would not have known it had worked for me.  The 2X day makes more sense for control of a problem but some people cannot remember to take 2X day.   For me it is no problem…Good Luck, Linda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been reading here about Singulair and Accolate (sp?).  My doctor and I figured out I had asthma only about 18 months ago as turned 45 years old, and it’s been an ongoing process of education for me so far. My asthma is bearable without any medication under most circumstances save exercise, and I’m an avid exerciser.  Since I discovered Claritin (I’m allergic to just about everything environmental – dust, mold, pollen, etc.) and an Alburterol inhaler, the quality of my life has improved immensely.  But I’ve found that I really need to take two puff of my inhaler before any exercise (I do go at it hard) and that means taking two puffs of the inhaler once a day for the rest of my life.  For the last 18 months I’ve saved using the inhaler for only my hard exercise effort or really humid weather but I’ve found, as I become more sensitive to how things work in my body, my breathing is impaired during any exercise, even easy exercise – the tightening in my chest begins after 10-15 minutes if I’m only going at it easily. Should I ask my doctor about a pill instead of an inhaler?  Right now, I use the inhaler before I go out running or cycling and it makes all the difference in the world – I can finish at the pace at which I started and it’s my legs, and not my lungs, that limit what I can do. Many thanks in advance. -S-

Response:

I only know what the All Holy Geisinger Medical Center tells me! Which at times doesn’t seem like good advice, eh? Like do they know why every winter my son’s left lung swells to the point that it isn’t functioning? Oh no! Just the left one mind you.  Oh well, what can I do except believe every word they tell me. I will tell my son’s doctor your story, if it is allright with you? Thank You, Brandy

Response:

My doctor pescribed a Tilade inhaler for my exercise induced asthma.  You might ask your doctor about it.  As far as needing it for the rest of you life, there is currently no cure for asthma, only management.  Ceresse

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been reading here about Singulair and Accolate (sp?).  My doctor and I figured out I had asthma only about 18 months ago as turned 45 years old, and it’s been an ongoing process of education for me so far. My asthma is bearable without any medication under most circumstances save exercise, and I’m an avid exerciser.  Since I discovered Claritin (I’m allergic to just about everything environmental – dust, mold, pollen, etc.) and an Alburterol inhaler, the quality of my life has improved immensely.  But I’ve found that I really need to take two puff of my inhaler before any exercise (I do go at it hard) and that means taking two puffs of the inhaler once a day for the rest of my life.  For the last 18 months I’ve saved using the inhaler for only my hard exercise effort or really humid weather but I’ve found, as I become more sensitive to how things work in my body, my breathing is impaired during any exercise, even easy exercise – the tightening in my chest begins after 10-15 minutes if I’m only going at it easily. Should I ask my doctor about a pill instead of an inhaler?  Right now, I use the inhaler before I go out running or cycling and it makes all the difference in the world – I can finish at the pace at which I started and it’s my legs, and not my lungs, that limit what I can do. Many thanks in advance. -S-

Response:

I only know what the All Holy Geisinger Medical Center tells me! Which at times doesn’t seem like good advice, eh? Like do they know why every winter my son’s left lung swells to the point that it isn’t functioning? Oh no! Just the left one mind you.  Oh well, what can I do except believe every word they tell me. I will tell my son’s doctor your story, if it is allright with you? Thank You, Brandy

Yes, please feel free to tell the story.  It is important for physicians to realize that medication can be helpful, but it may depend on the patient and situation.  Making broad claims can sometimes be misleading.  Good luck with that and with your son’s problem — that one sounds scary. Is the Geisinger Medical Center in Pennsylvania?  Northeastern part? If so, my parents have used it, too.  It has a big name in that region.

Response:

I take both Flovent and Singulair, and both have helped immensely, especially with exercise.  But I still do have to take at least one puff of my Albuterol before exercise, but I don’t have any problems after that.  It used to be that I had to take 2 puffs before, during, and after.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been reading here about Singulair and Accolate (sp?).  My doctor and I figured out I had asthma only about 18 months ago as turned 45 years old, and it’s been an ongoing process of education for me so far. My asthma is bearable without any medication under most circumstances save exercise, and I’m an avid exerciser.  Since I discovered Claritin (I’m allergic to just about everything environmental – dust, mold, pollen, etc.) and an Alburterol inhaler, the quality of my life has improved immensely.  But I’ve found that I really need to take two puff of my inhaler before any exercise (I do go at it hard) and that means taking two puffs of the inhaler once a day for the rest of my life.  For the last 18 months I’ve saved using the inhaler for only my hard exercise effort or really humid weather but I’ve found, as I become more sensitive to how things work in my body, my breathing is impaired during any exercise, even easy exercise – the tightening in my chest begins after 10-15 minutes if I’m only going at it easily. Should I ask my doctor about a pill instead of an inhaler?  Right now, I use the inhaler before I go out running or cycling and it makes all the difference in the world – I can finish at the pace at which I started and it’s my legs, and not my lungs, that limit what I can do. Many thanks in advance. -S-

Response:

That is where the Geisinger is. It is HUGE.

Response:

I just realized I was having vivid dreams — probably caused by Advair. Thanks for mentioning this, because I hadn’t made the connection before. I was mini-golfing outside in the very cool air today and didn’t cough or feel short of breath even once, so Advair is certainly working for me. –Jane – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been reading here about Singulair and Accolate (sp?).  My doctor and I figured out I had asthma only about 18 months ago as turned 45 years old, and it’s been an ongoing process of education for me so far. My asthma is bearable without any medication under most circumstances save exercise, and I’m an avid exerciser.  Since I discovered Claritin (I’m allergic to just about everything environmental – dust, mold, pollen, etc.) and an Alburterol inhaler, the quality of my life has improved immensely.  But I’ve found that I really need to take two puff of my inhaler before any exercise (I do go at it hard) and that means taking two puffs of the inhaler once a day for the rest of my life.  For the last 18 months I’ve saved using the inhaler for only my hard exercise effort or really humid weather but I’ve found, as I become more sensitive to how things work in my body, my breathing is impaired during any exercise, even easy exercise – the tightening in my chest begins after 10-15 minutes if I’m only going at it easily. Should I ask my doctor about a pill instead of an inhaler?  Right now, I use the inhaler before I go out running or cycling and it makes all the difference in the world – I can finish at the pace at which I started and it’s my legs, and not my lungs, that limit what I can do. Many thanks in advance. -S- I tried only the inhaler when exercising, but I had to keep using more and more.  Dangerous and not recommended. I complained to my allergist and he had me try Singulair.  I’m in the 2/3 group for which Singulair is effective.  I am very lucky.  I can now run, often without using an inhaler before.  A miracle for me. I recommend trying Singulair or Accolate.  If they work (and there is no guarantee), they will really make your life better and exercise more fun.  Singulair has no side effects in me.  Some people have reported vivid dreaming and some other symptoms. Talk to your doctor.

Response:

   You won’t know ’til you try it, will you?

Response:

Since then I’ve been mountain biking at much higher speeds and I rarely touch my Albuterol anymore. It for all practical purposes eliminates the exercise induced component of my Asthma. It makes you hyper at first, but that diminishes over time. I also take Claritin. Caritin has been a break-through medication for me and I’d put Serevent in that category too. At least so far. Al

Advair diskus contains both flovent and serevent(in a powdered form which is inhaled.)  Severent inhalors gave me bad headaches. But your right, it doesn’t make you gittery. kurt

Response:

I’ve been on it for a week now and have not noticed any significant results. Like you, I’m an avid exerciser. I’ve had Asthma since age 4 and I’m 62. I managed to get by with Albuterol until recently. The stress of mountain biking had me overdosing on the stuff. No bad affects, but I knew I was taking too much. So I did a WEB search and found Serevent. It’s a slow release medication and it acts like Albuterol does. You take 2 puffs in the morning and two in the evening. Since then I’ve been mountain biking at much higher speeds and I rarely touch my Albuterol anymore. It for all practical purposes eliminates the exercise induced component of my Asthma. It makes you hyper at first, but that diminishes over time. My Dr put me on Singulair and Azmacort too as apparently you need to be on anti inflammatory medication as well as the Albuterol and the Serevent. I also take Claritin. Caritin has been a break-through medication for me and I’d put Serevent in that category too. At least so far. Al

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been reading here about Singulair and Accolate (sp?).  My doctor and I figured out I had asthma only about 18 months ago as turned 45 years old, and it’s been an ongoing process of education for me so far. My asthma is bearable without any medication under most circumstances save exercise, and I’m an avid exerciser.  Since I discovered Claritin (I’m allergic to just about everything environmental – dust, mold, pollen, etc.) and an Alburterol inhaler, the quality of my life has improved immensely.  But I’ve found that I really need to take two puff of my inhaler before any exercise (I do go at it hard) and that means taking two puffs of the inhaler once a day for the rest of my life.  For the last 18 months I’ve saved using the inhaler for only my hard exercise effort or really humid weather but I’ve found, as I become more sensitive to how things work in my body, my breathing is impaired during any exercise, even easy exercise – the tightening in my chest begins after 10-15 minutes if I’m only going at it easily. Should I ask my doctor about a pill instead of an inhaler?  Right now, I use the inhaler before I go out running or cycling and it makes all the difference in the world – I can finish at the pace at which I started and it’s my legs, and not my lungs, that limit what I can do. Many thanks in advance. -S-

Response:

I’ve been reading here about Singulair and Accolate (sp?).  My doctor and I figured out I had asthma only about 18 months ago as turned 45 years old, and it’s been an ongoing process of education for me so far. My asthma is bearable without any medication under most circumstances save exercise, and I’m an avid exerciser.  Since I discovered Claritin (I’m allergic to just about everything environmental – dust, mold, pollen, etc.) and an Alburterol inhaler, the quality of my life has improved immensely.  But I’ve found that I really need to take two puff of my inhaler before any exercise (I do go at it hard) and that means taking two puffs of the inhaler once a day for the rest of my life.  For the last 18 months I’ve saved using the inhaler for only my hard exercise effort or really humid weather but I’ve found, as I become more sensitive to how things work in my body, my breathing is impaired during any exercise, even easy exercise – the tightening in my chest begins after 10-15 minutes if I’m only going at it easily. Should I ask my doctor about a pill instead of an inhaler?  Right now, I use the inhaler before I go out running or cycling and it makes all the difference in the world – I can finish at the pace at which I started and it’s my legs, and not my lungs, that limit what I can do. Many thanks in advance. -S-

Response:

If you are allergic to dairy products do not take singulair, it contains lactose. sue – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been reading here about Singulair and Accolate (sp?).  My doctor and I figured out I had asthma only about 18 months ago as turned 45 years old, and it’s been an ongoing process of education for me so far. My asthma is bearable without any medication under most circumstances save exercise, and I’m an avid exerciser.  Since I discovered Claritin (I’m allergic to just about everything environmental – dust, mold, pollen, etc.) and an Alburterol inhaler, the quality of my life has improved immensely.  But I’ve found that I really need to take two puff of my inhaler before any exercise (I do go at it hard) and that means taking two puffs of the inhaler once a day for the rest of my life.  For the last 18 months I’ve saved using the inhaler for only my hard exercise effort or really humid weather but I’ve found, as I become more sensitive to how things work in my body, my breathing is impaired during any exercise, even easy exercise – the tightening in my chest begins after 10-15 minutes if I’m only going at it easily. Should I ask my doctor about a pill instead of an inhaler?  Right now, I use the inhaler before I go out running or cycling and it makes all the difference in the world – I can finish at the pace at which I started and it’s my legs, and not my lungs, that limit what I can do. Many thanks in advance. -S- I tried only the inhaler when exercising, but I had to keep using more and more.  Dangerous and not recommended. I complained to my allergist and he had me try Singulair.  I’m in the 2/3 group for which Singulair is effective.  I am very lucky.  I can now run, often without using an inhaler before.  A miracle for me. I recommend trying Singulair or Accolate.  If they work (and there is no guarantee), they will really make your life better and exercise more fun.  Singulair has no side effects in me.  Some people have reported vivid dreaming and some other symptoms. Talk to your doctor.

Response:

From what my doctor has told me Singulair will not work for Exercise-Induced asthma. Hope this helps! Brandy

Tell your doctor it works for me.  For two years now I run 4 miles in the morning (~ 8 1/2 min/mi).  Before Singulair I couldn’t run that far or that fast with an inhaler.  Sometimes I couldn’t finish the first mile.  Never had that happen after I started Singulair.  I rarely use my inhaler, too.  It can help, but everyone is different.

Response:

From what my doctor has told me Singulair will not work for Exercise-Induced asthma. Hope this helps! Brandy

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been reading here about Singulair and Accolate (sp?).  My doctor and I figured out I had asthma only about 18 months ago as turned 45 years old, and it’s been an ongoing process of education for me so far. My asthma is bearable without any medication under most circumstances save exercise, and I’m an avid exerciser.  Since I discovered Claritin (I’m allergic to just about everything environmental – dust, mold, pollen, etc.) and an Alburterol inhaler, the quality of my life has improved immensely.  But I’ve found that I really need to take two puff of my inhaler before any exercise (I do go at it hard) and that means taking two puffs of the inhaler once a day for the rest of my life.  For the last 18 months I’ve saved using the inhaler for only my hard exercise effort or really humid weather but I’ve found, as I become more sensitive to how things work in my body, my breathing is impaired during any exercise, even easy exercise – the tightening in my chest begins after 10-15 minutes if I’m only going at it easily. Should I ask my doctor about a pill instead of an inhaler?  Right now, I use the inhaler before I go out running or cycling and it makes all the difference in the world – I can finish at the pace at which I started and it’s my legs, and not my lungs, that limit what I can do. Many thanks in advance. -S-

I tried only the inhaler when exercising, but I had to keep using more and more.  Dangerous and not recommended.   I complained to my allergist and he had me try Singulair.  I’m in the 2/3 group for which Singulair is effective.  I am very lucky.  I can now run, often without using an inhaler before.  A miracle for me. I recommend trying Singulair or Accolate.  If they work (and there is no guarantee), they will really make your life better and exercise more fun.  Singulair has no side effects in me.  Some people have reported vivid dreaming and some other symptoms. Talk to your doctor.

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After this I tried Celexa, Effexor and Zoloft.  Each helped for a week or two and then the irritability and aggression began to steadily increase until it became urgent that I stop the drug. Hi Louise, I had feelings and thoughts of aggression for a few weeks after starting to raise the Zoloft dose to high levels. What I did was take a little bit of Benadryl, about a few grains from a broken store-brand capsule, to settle the agitation.  Eventually after a few days of the Benadryl the agitation stopped and never came back again. I also started raising the dose very gradually. I have a family history of bipolar (called manic depressive back then), and my pdoc concluded that I should NEVER take any more SSRIs because I have the biological tendency to become manic from them. Are you sure you are manic on them permanently? Some of us get manic on them for a while, but only for a while. I was euphorically hypomanic from Zoloft for four months, with some jitters thrown in.  Eventually all that left. How long were you on any of the SSRIs? So, does anyone know whether the Klonopin would prevent the irritable, agitated and aggressive symptoms that I always get after a few weeks on an SSRI?  Would it be worth trying an SSRI now that I am solidly on Klonopin or is it likely that the same thing will happen? Well, I took Benadryl for a few days to calm down the agitation. It wasn’t much–just a few grains once or twice a day–not enough to make one sleepy. It worked for me.  It is used to help those who go through akathisia/ agressiveness when having starting SSRIs.  It may or may not work for you.

I was never on an SSRI for more than a month or two because my I and my pdoc and my therapist became fearful that my anger and irritation were so intense that I would lose control and they felt I should get off of them. I guess I was wondering whether the Klonopin would be like the Benedryl. Louise — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ::Two people I was very close to have passed away in the last ::6 months and another is moving far away in about 6 weeks. ::The moving has thrown me over the line and I am becoming ::more and chronically depressed, hopeless and it’s getting ::real hard to function in the mornings. <gently snipped Dear Louise, Sorry about all the loss in your life. (((((Louise))))) You seem so sensitive to lots of medication. Have you thought about getting some therapy to help deal with your feelings of loss? It could help you a lot. Healing thoughts being sent your way. Jackie ~*~If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude~*~  ~~ Maya Angelou quote

I’m sorry, I should have said that I am in therapy.  In fact, in January, my therapist of 10 years suddenly had a stroke and died – that is one of the "losses". I have started with someone else….but it’s not the same and I don’t know if it ever will be. Louise — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::I’m sorry, I should have said that I am in therapy.  In ::fact, in January, my therapist of 10 years suddenly had a ::stroke and died – that is one of the "losses". I’m so sorry (((((Louise))))) Jackie ~*~Life is not the way it’s supposed to be. It’s the way it    is. The way you deal with it is what makes the difference~*~   ~~ Virginia Satir   — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Over the last 10+ years, I’ve tried several SSRIs to treat a chronic low level, lifelong depression.  I have also suffered from a lot of anxiety and panic attacks and have usually been thought to have an "agitated depression" when I’ve sought psychiatric help. The only ADs that ever helped were the ones that put me to sleep and made me just able to function, but not "live", because I’d rather be sleeping, almost no matter what.  That was Luvox.  But when the dose of Luvox was raised, I didn’t become more sleepy, I became more agitated, argumentative and intolerably irritable.  I was on the verge of destruction – myself and others. After this I tried Celexa, Effexor and Zoloft.  Each helped for a week or two and then the irritability and aggression began to steadily increase until it became urgent that I stop the drug. I have a family history of bipolar (called manic depressive back then), and my pdoc concluded that I should NEVER take any more SSRIs because I have the biological tendency to become manic from them. I used Lamictal for several years with minimal success.  I need to take lots of benzos to counter the panic attacks and eventually began getting them in a variety of ways because the pdoc didn’t want me to take them every day (ativan mostly). Then I stopped the lamictal and felt better, as I suspected I would.  I was off all medication except for ativan prn for about 8 months. Then, last May (06), there were some serious changes in my life and I became extremely anxious.  I went to see a new pdoc who suggested that we focus on the panic attacks and the anxiety and see what happens.  I am now taking 2mg Klonopin daily and it has definitely helped to level me out and yet, to leave me able to feel and think clearly and have good judgment.  It has provided a lot of relief with minimal side effects.  I don’t really care that it might be addictive. Two people I was very close to have passed away in the last 6 months and another is moving far away in about 6 weeks. The moving has thrown me over the line and I am becoming more and chronically depressed, hopeless and it’s getting real hard to function in the mornings. Seroquel was suggested but I refused it because of its potential to cause diabetes.  This is a disease I dread and I will not take a drug that makes it happen to some people and they don’t know why! So, does anyone know whether the Klonopin would prevent the irritable, agitated and aggressive symptoms that I always get after a few weeks on an SSRI?  Would it be worth trying an SSRI now that I am solidly on Klonopin or is it likely that the same thing will happen? Thanks for reading this long post and for any experiences and/or suggestions you have. Louise — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Over the last 10+ years, I’ve tried several SSRIs to treat a chronic low level, lifelong depression.  I have also suffered from a lot of anxiety and panic attacks and have usually been thought to have an "agitated depression" when I’ve sought psychiatric help. The only ADs that ever helped were the ones that put me to sleep and made me just able to function, but not "live", because I’d rather be sleeping, almost no matter what.  That was Luvox.  But when the dose of Luvox was raised, I didn’t become more sleepy, I became more agitated, argumentative and intolerably irritable.  I was on the verge of destruction – myself and others. After this I tried Celexa, Effexor and Zoloft.  Each helped for a week or two and then the irritability and aggression began to steadily increase until it became urgent that I stop the drug. I have a family history of bipolar (called manic depressive back then), and my pdoc concluded that I should NEVER take any more SSRIs because I have the biological tendency to become manic from them. I used Lamictal for several years with minimal success.  I need to take lots of benzos to counter the panic attacks and eventually began getting them in a variety of ways because the pdoc didn’t want me to take them every day (ativan mostly). Then I stopped the lamictal and felt better, as I suspected I would.  I was off all medication except for ativan prn for about 8 months. Then, last May (06), there were some serious changes in my life and I became extremely anxious.  I went to see a new pdoc who suggested that we focus on the panic attacks and the anxiety and see what happens.  I am now taking 2mg Klonopin daily and it has definitely helped to level me out and yet, to leave me able to feel and think clearly and have good judgment.  It has provided a lot of relief with minimal side effects.  I don’t really care that it might be addictive. Two people I was very close to have passed away in the last 6 months and another is moving far away in about 6 weeks. The moving has thrown me over the line and I am becoming more and chronically depressed, hopeless and it’s getting real hard to function in the mornings. Seroquel was suggested but I refused it because of its potential to cause diabetes.  This is a disease I dread and I will not take a drug that makes it happen to some people and they don’t know why! So, does anyone know whether the Klonopin would prevent the irritable, agitated and aggressive symptoms that I always get after a few weeks on an SSRI?

Klonopin isn’t a mood stabilizer, so my guess is that it wouldn’t prevent a mood swing to hypomania/mania. Our resident psychiatrist Margrove might be able to suggest a good med combo. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is used for depression in bipolars cause it is thought it is less likely than other antidepressants to result in a mood swing . Chip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Two people I was very close to have passed away in the last ::6 months and another is moving far away in about 6 weeks. ::The moving has thrown me over the line and I am becoming ::more and chronically depressed, hopeless and it’s getting ::real hard to function in the mornings. <gently snipped Dear Louise, Sorry about all the loss in your life. (((((Louise))))) You seem so sensitive to lots of medication. Have you thought about getting some therapy to help deal with your feelings of loss? It could help you a lot. Healing thoughts being sent your way. Jackie ~*~If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude~*~  ~~ Maya Angelou quote — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

After this I tried Celexa, Effexor and Zoloft.  Each helped for a week or two and then the irritability and aggression began to steadily increase until it became urgent that I stop the drug.

Hi Louise, I had feelings and thoughts of aggression for a few weeks after starting to raise the Zoloft dose to high levels. What I did was take a little bit of Benadryl, about a few grains from a broken store-brand capsule, to settle the agitation.  Eventually after a few days of the Benadryl the agitation stopped and never came back again. I also started raising the dose very gradually. I have a family history of bipolar (called manic depressive back then), and my pdoc concluded that I should NEVER take any more SSRIs because I have the biological tendency to become manic from them.

Are you sure you are manic on them permanently? Some of us get manic on them for a while, but only for a while. I was euphorically hypomanic from Zoloft for four months, with some jitters thrown in.  Eventually all that left. How long were you on any of the SSRIs? So, does anyone know whether the Klonopin would prevent the irritable, agitated and aggressive symptoms that I always get after a few weeks on an SSRI?  Would it be worth trying an SSRI now that I am solidly on Klonopin or is it likely that the same thing will happen?

Well, I took Benadryl for a few days to calm down the agitation. It wasn’t much–just a few grains once or twice a day–not enough to make one sleepy. It worked for me.  It is used to help those who go through akathisia/ agressiveness when having starting SSRIs.  It may or may not work for you. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Question:

Sound off.

Yep, it still gets noizy. But I’m up for it. Puter

Response:

I’m definitely out of it…  But

truthfully, I’m wondering if it wasn’t more of a function of the Zyban.  (I read a study about that being a new possible use).  But it definitely tapered off when I went off the pills.  *sigh* I was actually thinking last night about going back on them, just for that reason : ) Anyone else experience this? Jo

One of the side effects of Wellbutrin (Zyban) can be increased libido. Sure has those side effects like dry mouth and upset stomach beat all to hell. I was on wellbutrin almost a year before I quit, so I tend not to count it in with my quit method. I know that doc’s who prescribe the SSRI antidepressants like Prozac, Effexor, and Zoloft (all of which can decrease the libido) often prescribe Wellbutrin as well, to counteract the effect. My doc just recently put me back on the Wellbutrin, not for depression, but as part of my treatment for FMS/arthritis. So I’ve been learning of other effects it can have. Vic HOF+

Response:

I love your comics : ) I’m definitely out of it…  But truthfully, I’m wondering if it wasn’t more of a function of the Zyban.  (I read a study about that being a new possible use).  But it definitely tapered off when I went off the pills.  *sigh*  I was actually thinking last night about going back on them, just for that reason : ) Anyone else experience this? Jo One month, three weeks, four days, 17 hours, 10 minutes and 36 seconds spent free. 780 times I didn’t cave, $291.51 not gone up in smoke. Life gratefully saved: 2 days, 17 hours, 0 minutes. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Come on; we talk about everything else here– death, bowel movements, pets, mouth sores, employment, hobbies, child-rearing, smutty jokes, etc.,etc… Sound off. Who’s in it and who’s past it and who’s waiting for it to start? I’m wondering if it ever ends, frankly…. http://www.quitbuddies.org/NewComix.html

Response:

I love your comics : ) I’m definitely out of it…  But truthfully, I’m wondering if it wasn’t more of a function of the Zyban.  (I read a study about that being a new possible use).  But it definitely tapered off when I went off the pills.  *sigh*  I was actually thinking last night about going back on them, just for that reason : ) Anyone else experience this?

Oh, yeah!  But here’s the way mine went:  Wellbutrin (yippee!), off of that & onto Zoloft (droop-no-go), off the Zoloft and after being off of it ALL for 3 or 4 weeks or so now everything is back up to Wellbutrin (Yippee!) level again, only without the Wellbutrin.  However, all of these anti-Ds were for moodiness caused by hormonal fluctuations, so I also started on hormone replacement therapy about 3 weeks ago and the improvement could be due to that.  Whatever, I’m a happy camper (and so is my hubby) again and I’m not having to take any anti-Ds either.  Not too bad for a 45 year ole’ lady, huh? ;^) —    BinnieBee – Proudly Wearing HOF+M Status;^)        %%      (—-)     ( __< )     ^^ ~~ ^^     ~f3as3~  http://www.quitbuddies.org/frogs.html

Response:

Come on; we talk about everything else here– death, bowel movements, pets, mouth sores, employment, hobbies, child-rearing, smutty jokes, etc.,etc… Sound off. Who’s in it and who’s past it and who’s waiting for it to start? I’m wondering if it ever ends, frankly…. http://www.quitbuddies.org/NewComix.html

Response:

Patty’s sleeping already.  Does that answer yer question there, Jef? <vbg Lee — 4w 2d 21h smoke-free, 1,853 cigs not smoked, $277.95 saved. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Come on; we talk about everything else here– death, bowel movements, pets, mouth sores, employment, hobbies, child-rearing, smutty jokes, etc.,etc… Sound off. Who’s in it and who’s past it and who’s waiting for it to start? I’m wondering if it ever ends, frankly…. http://www.quitbuddies.org/NewComix.html

Response:

Come on; we talk about everything else here– death, bowel movements, pets, mouth sores, employment, hobbies, child-rearing, smutty jokes, etc.,etc… Sound off. Who’s in it and who’s past it and who’s waiting for it to start? I’m wondering if it ever ends, frankly…. http://www.quitbuddies.org/NewComix.html

Response:

Patty’s sleeping already.  Does that answer yer question there, Jef? <vbg Lee — 4w 2d 21h smoke-free, 1,853 cigs not smoked, $277.95 saved. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Come on; we talk about everything else here– death, bowel movements, pets, mouth sores, employment, hobbies, child-rearing, smutty jokes, etc.,etc… Sound off. Who’s in it and who’s past it and who’s waiting for it to start? I’m wondering if it ever ends, frankly…. http://www.quitbuddies.org/NewComix.html

Response:

I love your comics : ) I’m definitely out of it…  But truthfully, I’m wondering if it wasn’t more of a function of the Zyban.  (I read a study about that being a new possible use).  But it definitely tapered off when I went off the pills.  *sigh*  I was actually thinking last night about going back on them, just for that reason : ) Anyone else experience this? Jo One month, three weeks, four days, 17 hours, 10 minutes and 36 seconds spent free. 780 times I didn’t cave, $291.51 not gone up in smoke. Life gratefully saved: 2 days, 17 hours, 0 minutes. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Come on; we talk about everything else here– death, bowel movements, pets, mouth sores, employment, hobbies, child-rearing, smutty jokes, etc.,etc… Sound off. Who’s in it and who’s past it and who’s waiting for it to start? I’m wondering if it ever ends, frankly…. http://www.quitbuddies.org/NewComix.html

Response:

I love your comics : ) I’m definitely out of it…  But truthfully, I’m wondering if it wasn’t more of a function of the Zyban.  (I read a study about that being a new possible use).  But it definitely tapered off when I went off the pills.  *sigh*  I was actually thinking last night about going back on them, just for that reason : ) Anyone else experience this?

Oh, yeah!  But here’s the way mine went:  Wellbutrin (yippee!), off of that & onto Zoloft (droop-no-go), off the Zoloft and after being off of it ALL for 3 or 4 weeks or so now everything is back up to Wellbutrin (Yippee!) level again, only without the Wellbutrin.  However, all of these anti-Ds were for moodiness caused by hormonal fluctuations, so I also started on hormone replacement therapy about 3 weeks ago and the improvement could be due to that.  Whatever, I’m a happy camper (and so is my hubby) again and I’m not having to take any anti-Ds either.  Not too bad for a 45 year ole’ lady, huh? ;^) —    BinnieBee – Proudly Wearing HOF+M Status;^)        %%      (—-)     ( __< )     ^^ ~~ ^^     ~f3as3~  http://www.quitbuddies.org/frogs.html

Response:

Sound off.

Yep, it still gets noizy. But I’m up for it. Puter

Response:

I’m definitely out of it…  But

truthfully, I’m wondering if it wasn’t more of a function of the Zyban.  (I read a study about that being a new possible use).  But it definitely tapered off when I went off the pills.  *sigh* I was actually thinking last night about going back on them, just for that reason : ) Anyone else experience this? Jo

One of the side effects of Wellbutrin (Zyban) can be increased libido. Sure has those side effects like dry mouth and upset stomach beat all to hell. I was on wellbutrin almost a year before I quit, so I tend not to count it in with my quit method. I know that doc’s who prescribe the SSRI antidepressants like Prozac, Effexor, and Zoloft (all of which can decrease the libido) often prescribe Wellbutrin as well, to counteract the effect. My doc just recently put me back on the Wellbutrin, not for depression, but as part of my treatment for FMS/arthritis. So I’ve been learning of other effects it can have. Vic HOF+

Response:

Question:

I have been taking zoloft for 2 years now and I have noticed that I do not feel as good as I had. It did stop my head chatters. I think it is an OCD thought pattern but I am becoming more irritable and tired. Also my BP went up after starting zoloft and I have psoriasis and this also worsened. I am down to 25 mg every other day and will stop all next week. I feel better but some of the thought pattern has come back. This is ok I can deal. Has anyone come off and feel they do not need it anylonger. I weened myself off xanex a year ago and have done great without it also. Joan

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I am down to 25 mg every other day and will stop all next week. A daily Zoloft dose would be preferrable to every other day dosing. I realize those 50 mg tabs are hard to cut up with a knife, but I’ve done it. Chip

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Hi,   I have also been on zoloft for 2 yrs.at one point i went off of them and felt great for about 5 months,then slowly but surely the panic attacks and depression came back. its been over a year since i went back on zoloft,ive been doing really well.but i don’t want to take it forever if i don’t have to.i am also  weening off the zoloft.so far i feel good,but have noticed a few things,dizziness,tingleling around my mouth and heart flutters,im not sure if this is from weening off or these herbs that i am trying(5-htp).i called my doc about it and she said i took too high of a dose of the herb,i think it’s a combo of both.if these herbs don’t work i will go back on zoloft and forget about tring other things.my only complaint about zoloft is the weight i’ve gained,other then that it’s been great.also it did seem like lately it wasn’t working as well,so instead of upping my dose i decided to try 5-htp.   hope this helps. ~~~  Your goals,minus your doubts,equal your reality ~~~~                                Julie

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I  have been prescribed zoloft (25mg 1 week then 50) by my Dr. I went to him complaining of very bad irritability. I mean to say I get mad and aggitated very easily. I had PA’s for about 7 years and they went away after stopping my high caffiene intake and depression runs in my family. The DR. thought that my temper problem could be a mild depression and thus the zoloft pescription. I would like to know what side effects I may have and if anyone has had the same thing prescribed for these symptoms. Dan

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I  have been prescribed zoloft (25mg 1 week then 50) by my Dr. I went to him complaining of very bad irritability. I mean to say I get mad and aggitated very easily. I had PA’s for about 7 years and they went away after stopping my high caffiene intake and depression runs in my family. The DR. thought that my temper problem could be a mild depression and thus the zoloft pescription. I would like to know what side effects I may have and if anyone has had the same thing prescribed for these symptoms. Dan Hi Dan,

I have been on Zoloft 25mg for a couple of months.  It wasn’t my first ssri- I started with Paxil and switched to Zoloft – so I missed out on the weaning on process.  The only thing I did/do experience was stomach discomfort(long story) other than that I can relate to your temper and irritability – I still get that way sometimes but It doesn’t CONSUME me.  I can let it go- no problem.  Sucks living without coffee doesn’t it?- I think I’m going through withdrawal – gosh -I could go for cup right now.  No beer, No cigs, No Coffee- Is this hell or what? Just kidding Bonnie Before you buy.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I  have been prescribed zoloft (25mg 1 week then 50) by my Dr. I went to him complaining of very bad irritability. I mean to say I get mad and aggitated very easily. I had PA’s for about 7 years and they went away after stopping my high caffiene intake and depression runs in my family. The DR. thought that my temper problem could be a mild depression and thus the zoloft pescription. I would like to know what side effects I may have and if anyone has had the same thing prescribed for these symptoms. Dan

Hi Dan, Weaning on it you might not get any side effects. The most noticeable for me was upset stomach and dry mouth. Oh yes I also Yawned allot. If you get side effects that bother you talk to your doctor. You can always cut back to a quarter of the 25. I started out at 12.5 and upped it from there. Charla Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

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Ah no, actually it is technically not an MAOI I got that all wrong. I am back to my norminal condition now.

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Apparently according to my doc the smallest dose is 50mg. Mabe the pharmesuitical ( ) companies thing that people in the Uk are harder and can start on 50mg *shrug* I had to stop it I could not work. Instead I am going back on st johns whilst waiting to see if I can see a physchatrist.

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Apparently according to my doc the smallest dose is 50mg. Mabe the pharmesuitical ( ) companies thing that people in the Uk are harder and can start on 50mg *shrug* I had to stop it I could not work. Instead I am going back on st johns whilst waiting to see if I can see a physchatrist.

Jason, they should be available in 25mg tablets.  Even if they’re not, invest in a pill cutter and make them smaller (don’t try to use a knife, you’ll wind up with a bunch of powder). Matt

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And that is the same as Sertraline hydroxide isn’t it? I woudn’t worry but I had bad stuff happening on a dose of 50mg.

No wonder as this is far too high a dose to start on. A good starting dose would be 12.5 mg… Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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Addendum – I had taken an MAOI for ten days previously. St John’s wort. (hypericum)

It is imperative to have at least a two week washing out period between a MAOI and an SSRI. Whether SJW actually *is* a MAOI remains to be seen but it is sometimes said to have MAOI-like properties at higher doses. Philip

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Addendum – I had taken an MAOI for ten days previously. St John’s wort. (hypericum)

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Can’t SJW +MAOIs cause the same sorts of problems SSRIs or TCAs with MAOIs can? I can’t believe that there wasn’t a waiting period with the MAOI.  This should be very disturbing to you Jason, and suggests strongly you seek another p-doc, or a p-doc if you’re with a GP.  (Though it’s such a basic fact about psychotropic drugs, s/he *had* to know about the risk of mixing MAOIs and SSRIs.) If you’re feeling really depressed and can handle some agitation for a few days, you probably could start at 25mg.  I always start off an SSRI at a really low dose (in this case 12.5mg) because of my high level of anxiety. Matt

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And that is the same as Sertraline hydroxide isn’t it? I woudn’t worry but I had bad stuff happening on a dose of 50mg. These were my symptoms: Day 1 Panic, very anxious, high pulse rate, fidgeting, hot/cold, odd sense of smell/taste, Cannot eat much, Talking to myself more than usual, shaky, hypermania, langauge difficulties, Can’t sleep. DAY 2 Spelling difficulties ( I spelt ofcourse as +ACI-obvcourse+ACI-  ), Slight anxiety, sweating lots, got out of bed 3.30am, felt afraid for some reason. – This is when I decided to stop. I have stopped taking them now. And feel much better. I still have some written langauge difficulties, and some hypertension. It is very rare indeed to get all of these symptoms, it’s wasn’t hugely traumatic and a doctor I saw wasn’t worried. ( tried to persuade me to carry on – but I HAVE to work next week )

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I  have been prescribed zoloft (25mg 1 week then 50) by my Dr. I went to him complaining of very bad irritability. I mean to say I get mad and aggitated very easily. I had PA’s for about 7 years and they went away after stopping my high caffiene intake and depression runs in my family. The DR. thought that my temper problem could be a mild depression and thus the zoloft pescription. I would like to know what side effects I may have and if anyone has had the same thing prescribed for these symptoms. Dan

Dan, SSRIs have a tendency to make people less sensitive to events in their life.  Some people even complain of apathy as a result of taking them. I’ve heard of them being used successfully for irritability, or at least having the effect of making people less irritable.  If I recall correctly (it’s been a while), Peter Kramer even notes this in _Listening to Prozac_ (with respect to Prozac). There is some info on SSRIs and apathy at dr-bob.org/tips  search under "apathy" Best, Matt

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Question:

Hi all, My fiance has been put on Zoloft for anxiety.  He’s taking 25 mg daily, which is half of the proscribed dosage, but he feels it’s working well enough to stick with that dosage.  His neuro put him on nortriptyline last week for migraines and said "it tends to work well in conjunction with zoloft."  Problem is the drowsiness it’s causing is leaving him a zombie, and he feels the migraines are better than the drowsiness.  Furthermore, he looked in his drug reference book and, according to that, zoloft and nortriptyline do EXACTLY the same thing in terms of serotonin reuptake. So my questions are: Why would a neuro prescribe nortriptyline and zoloft at the same time?  Do they really do the same thing/is there any benefit to taking them both at the same time?  Is anyone out there taking zoloft and nortriptyline together?  And–probably most important–how long can he expect the drowsiness to last?  He’s already decided to quit the nortriptyline altogether and double the zoloft dose, but we’re both sort of wondering if that’s the right thing to do. — someone

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Okay, let me clarify.  First, he only took nortriptyline for about 4 days, as it was *just* prescribed by his neuro.  So the fact that he quit "cold turkey" isn’t really significant IMO.  The neuro did indeed tell him it would take about 6 weeks for any "noticeable effects," and that the drowsiness would last maybe 2-4 weeks; but he decided that he could not deal with it for that long.  (BTW he was taking it at bedtime and then sleeping for 10+ hours, but was still like a zombie the next day.)  As for the zoloft, that was prescribed by his psychiatrist for anxiety.  He started that in the usual fashion with an extremely small dose and worked up to .25 mg, which is half of the proscribed "full dose."  His shrink had intended for him to advance to the full dose, but he stopped at .25 mg because he felt it was doing a very good job with the anxiety at that level, so taking more was not necessary (he discussed this with his shrink just last week, and even he felt that was pretty sound logic).  Then when he read that zoloft and nortriptyline do the same thing, he decided to drop the nortryptiline and up the zoloft to the originally intended dose. Incidentally, *now* he’s not sure he’s even *having* migraines anymore; he says now that he thinks about it, he can’t remember the last time he had a *real* migraine.  He has some of the symptoms all the time, like flashing lights, etc., but as far as *pain* goes, he’s beginning to think that those are either tension headaches or Excedrin rebound headaches–since they don’t occur just on one side like his usual migraines.  Seems like the *possible* (we hope) disappearance of full-blown migraines correlates pretty well with when he started taking zoloft.  We’ve got our fingers crossed. And here’s an interesting side note: Last October he underwent a sleep study to test for possible sleep apnea.  He has serious problems getting up in the morning, and is physically tired all day regardless of how much sleep he gets.  The study did not turn up any signs of sleep apnea, but did show an early-onset of REM which, according to the neuro, is common in people who suffer from depression (which causes which, nobody knows).  BUT he does not suffer from depression at all, at least no outward signs.  Is it possible to have "clinical depression" without *ever* feeling depressed?  Anyway the neuro said nortryptiline is especially good at treating depression, and "works well in conjunction with zoloft."  Too bad he couldn’t handle the drowsiness. BTW, he is still taking zoloft at bedtime, with xanax to counteract the jitters.  I guess the nortryptiline did *too good* of a job counteracting them. Whew!  So then, you seem to have a certain amount of medical background. What do you think of all this? — Ninerfan (a.k.a. Someone–now posting from her own computer instead of her boyfriend’s)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Zoloft (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, a/k/a SSRI)often causes "jitters," and difficulty in getting to sleep or staying asleep. The sedating tricyclic/heterocyclic(TCAs or HCAs) antidepressants (ADs) cause drowsiness or deep sleep without addiction. (Some drugs in that class aren’t sedating.) Both are useful for migraine prophylaxis (px); ergo, each prescribed together, with extra potential to prevent migraines, increase your actual physical pain tolerance, increase the effectiveness of analgesics and each (with luck) canceling out some of the side effects of each other. This is awfully clever prescribing, actually, and I wish my docs had thought of it! Pamelor (nortriptyline) is a second-generation tricyclic, a direct derivative of Elavil or Tofranil (I forget which)–sort of a pre-digested Elavil/Tofranil. First-generation drugs go through a bunch o’ changes as they’re metabolized. The thinking was that for depression, if you could give patients something which was farther along in the process of conversion to a substance useful to the body, the AD would work faster. This might mean patients wouldn’t have to wait 4-6 weeks to see if the AD would work. Unfortunately, second- and third-generation ADs were no faster at lifting depressions. However, they had fewer serious side effects for many people while still maintaining the effectiveness of the older drugs for many people. Pamelor is generally prescribed before bedtime and Zoloft in the morning. Anxiety disorders generally don’t respond well to the TCAs or HCAs, but many of the SSRIs and the neither/or ADs (Desyrel/trazodone, for instance) are very useful in obsess.-comp. dis., gen’l anx. dis., etc. ABSOLUTELY do not d/c nortriptyline abruptly!!! This is very important. And NEVER double the dosage of a psych medicine on your own. Some cause heart arrythmias, some cause whacko neurological problems, wierd thoughts/behavior, etc. Call the doctor and state the complaint. Hi all, My fiance has been put on Zoloft for anxiety.  He’s taking 25 mg daily, which is half of the proscribed dosage, but he feels it’s working well enough to stick with that dosage.  His neuro put him on nortriptyline last week for migraines and said "it tends to work well in conjunction with zoloft."  Problem is the drowsiness it’s causing is leaving him a zombie, and he feels the migraines are better than the drowsiness.  Furthermore, he looked in his drug reference book and, according to that, zoloft and nortriptyline do EXACTLY the same thing in terms of serotonin reuptake. So my questions are: Why would a neuro prescribe nortriptyline and zoloft at the same time?  Do they really do the same thing/is there any benefit to taking them both at the same time?  Is anyone out there taking zoloft and nortriptyline together?  And–probably most important–how long can he expect the drowsiness to last?  He’s already decided to quit the nortriptyline altogether and double the zoloft dose, but we’re both sort of wondering if that’s the right thing to do. — someone

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Question: *Why* is it a "good idea" to wean yourself off of a medication which is preventing migraines?

My opinion…. A medication takes upwards to 6 weeks at times to fully get into ones system….. stopping a medication quickly can shock ones system and might cause further medical complications… the medications dont know that we are taking them for migraines…… I take a blood pressure medication called Inderal… if I were to stop taking this completely cold turkey, it might shock my pressure and system and cause all sorts of difficulities…… make sense? Kristen Leigh

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Hi Debby, He only took nortriptyline for about 4 days, so we’re not really worried about side effects.  I’m concerned that maybe he didn’t give it long enough, but he’s a big boy, so I can’t really make him take it if he doesn’t want to. Question: *Why* is it a "good idea" to wean yourself off of a medication which is preventing migraines? — Ninerfan – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – and I agree would be a good idea.  Please be very careful—if you are considering changing medication don’t do it suddenly or without consulting your doctor–there can be VERY nasty side effects from sudden withdrawal. Debby

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Zoloft (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, a/k/a SSRI)often causes "jitters," and difficulty in getting to sleep or staying asleep. The sedating tricyclic/heterocyclic(TCAs or HCAs) antidepressants (ADs) cause drowsiness or deep sleep without addiction. (Some drugs in that class aren’t sedating.) Both are useful for migraine prophylaxis (px); ergo, each prescribed together, with extra potential to prevent migraines, increase your actual physical pain tolerance, increase the effectiveness of analgesics and each (with luck) canceling out some of the side effects of each other. This is awfully clever prescribing, actually, and I wish my docs had thought of it! Pamelor (nortriptyline) is a second-generation tricyclic, a direct derivative of Elavil or Tofranil (I forget which)–sort of a pre-digested Elavil/Tofranil. First-generation drugs go through a bunch o’ changes as they’re metabolized. The thinking was that for depression, if you could give patients something which was farther along in the process of conversion to a substance useful to the body, the AD would work faster. This might mean patients wouldn’t have to wait 4-6 weeks to see if the AD would work. Unfortunately, second- and third-generation ADs were no faster at lifting depressions. However, they had fewer serious side effects for many people while still maintaining the effectiveness of the older drugs for many people. Pamelor is generally prescribed before bedtime and Zoloft in the morning. Anxiety disorders generally don’t respond well to the TCAs or HCAs, but many of the SSRIs and the neither/or ADs (Desyrel/trazodone, for instance) are very useful in obsess.-comp. dis., gen’l anx. dis., etc. ABSOLUTELY do not d/c nortriptyline abruptly!!! This is very important. And NEVER double the dosage of a psych medicine on your own. Some cause heart arrythmias, some cause whacko neurological problems, wierd thoughts/behavior, etc. Call the doctor and state the complaint. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, My fiance has been put on Zoloft for anxiety.  He’s taking 25 mg daily, which is half of the proscribed dosage, but he feels it’s working well enough to stick with that dosage.  His neuro put him on nortriptyline last week for migraines and said "it tends to work well in conjunction with zoloft."  Problem is the drowsiness it’s causing is leaving him a zombie, and he feels the migraines are better than the drowsiness.  Furthermore, he looked in his drug reference book and, according to that, zoloft and nortriptyline do EXACTLY the same thing in terms of serotonin reuptake. So my questions are: Why would a neuro prescribe nortriptyline and zoloft at the same time?  Do they really do the same thing/is there any benefit to taking them both at the same time?  Is anyone out there taking zoloft and nortriptyline together?  And–probably most important–how long can he expect the drowsiness to last?  He’s already decided to quit the nortriptyline altogether and double the zoloft dose, but we’re both sort of wondering if that’s the right thing to do. — someone

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I am taking Elavil and Prozac together, and I had the same questions as to why take two antidepressants together.  I’m not sure what the reasoning is behind it, but it’s quite common for migraines.  I take the Elavil at night and it helps me sleep.  The first week or so I was a zombie, but it got better after about 10 days.  Tell him to hang in there, it gets better.

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snip<  i THINK that nortriptyline is amytriptyline (sp?) (elavil)? & is classified as a tricyclic, wheras zoloft is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor).  

Nortriptyline is the generic name for Pamelar and amytriptyline is the generic name for Elavil.  They are similar but not the same.   I’m not sure if they are classified as tricyclics…I never did understand what tricyclics were anyway. if that’s the case, perhaps they work a little differently, albeit both on the serotonin. in any event, my experience with the drowsiness is that it passes after awhile.  it was the dry mouth (from elavil; i haven’t been on zoloft) that bummed me out.

I’ve been on nortriptyline for 5 years.  My dosage has ranged from 50 to 100 mgs.  I barely notice the side effects.  I keep trying to find a less stressful time so that I can start to wean myself which my doctor and I agree would be a good idea.  Please be very careful—if you are considering changing medication don’t do it suddenly or without consulting your doctor–there can be VERY nasty side effects from sudden withdrawal. Debby

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: , he : looked in his drug reference book and, according to that, zoloft and : nortriptyline do EXACTLY the same thing in terms of serotonin reuptake. :  i THINK that nortriptyline is amytriptyline (sp?) (elavil)? & is classified : as a tricyclic, wheras zoloft is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake : inhibitor).   if that’s the case, perhaps they work a little differently, : albeit both on the serotonin. in any event, my experience with the : drowsiness is that it passes after awhile.  it was the dry mouth (from : elavil; i haven’t been on zoloft) that bummed me out. I believe nortriptyline is *related* to amitriptyline (none of this spelling looks right to me), not the same thing. Many of these antidepressants do *roughly* the same thing, but in slightly different ways.  This is why they may have different side effects and may work better in combination than alone. I’m switching off of Zoloft, and am trying Wellbutrin.  (Actually I’m on both now, as the Wellbutrin settles in, so I don’t get left with a period with no antidepressant — I have clinical depression.)  I may, however, end up taking two different antidepressants, taking one which has sleepiness side effects in the evening and Wellbutrin, which has energizing side effects, earlier in the day.  Lots of folks do it that way.  The sedative effect of the med taken in the evening helps one sleep. Years ago I was on amitryptaline to see if it would help my migraines, and I discovered that I could count on falling asleep almost exactly 30 minutes after I took my dose.  Which was great, because I often have trouble falling asleep. Priscilla

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, he looked in his drug reference book and, according to that, zoloft and nortriptyline do EXACTLY the same thing in terms of serotonin reuptake.

 i THINK that nortriptyline is amytriptyline (sp?) (elavil)? & is classified as a tricyclic, wheras zoloft is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor).   if that’s the case, perhaps they work a little differently, albeit both on the serotonin. in any event, my experience with the drowsiness is that it passes after awhile.  it was the dry mouth (from elavil; i haven’t been on zoloft) that bummed me out.

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You miss the point.  Why stop at all, if that medication is preventing the migraines?  Isn’t this sort of telling the patient that the migraine is all in your head and you just have to deal with it?  As if you have agoraphobia or something that you just have to "get over"?  To put it another way, if you were taking insulin shots for diabetes, would your doctor attempt to "wean" you off of insulin?

No, I dont think it is the same thing and I dont think that the doctors are saying that it is all in our heads.. at least the good ones…… what I do think is that… as I posted earlier….. I was told that it is possible that the migraine is cyclic… meaning that they come in cycles and if that cycle is broken, it is possible to be without the medications for a while…. I am not a doctor, nor do I pretend to be one.. all I know is what I have been told and learned myself….. and that is that I see two possibilities for weaning off a medication… one the med isnt working and one is at a dosage that is too high just to stop cold turkey and switch….. as is the case I have with the inderal I am on… or two….. that the doctor wants to see if the patient is able to survive off the medications without getting the migraines back again…… if I had the possibility of breaking a cycle of migraines and living life with one or two a year and NOT being on medications….. well, it would be a dream come true….. I would think that it would be worth a shot at least to find out….. from a laymans point of view……unlike a diabetic….. blood sugar levels are able to be tested where as migraines (at least most from what I gather) cannot be found on any one test…. this leaves open a lot of room for opinion and differences  in treatments……. if a diabetic’s system were to improve then this person would need less and less insulin…. possibly even get to a point where they dont need it….. as has happened with juvinile diabetis… sooooooo  lets get hypothetical for a moment….. if there WERE a test for migraines.. and a patients system were to show that they are needing less and less of a medication… wouldnt it make sense for them to take the lesser dosage necessary?  so in that respect… since there ISNT a test to tell this…. one must try it and see…. as with us trying different medications and different courses of treatment.. each is different… each doctor is different.. each migraine is different… all one can do is experiment and try to get to the as I said, this is just my opinion and what I have been told….. Again, I am not a doctor and cannot speak for why individuals are weaned off meds or not, it is just a theory which in my laypersons opinion.. think is a valid one that if I were to get to the point that I  did not have a migraine in lets say  a year …. I would certaintly want to TRY and see if I were able to survive without all these drugs…. I hate taking them at all times and even now dream for the day to live life without them…… it is a constant fight going on within… why at 25 do I have to take all this junk…… what did I ever do… I might never have that answer…. who knows? Kristen Leigh

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You miss the point.  Why stop at all, if that medication is preventing the migraines?  Isn’t this sort of telling the patient that the migraine is all in your head and you just have to deal with it?  As if you have agoraphobia or something that you just have to "get over"?  To put it another way, if you were taking insulin shots for diabetes, would your doctor attempt to "wean" you off of insulin? — Ninerfan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Question: *Why* is it a "good idea" to wean yourself off of a medication which is preventing migraines? My opinion…. A medication takes upwards to 6 weeks at times to fully get into ones system….. stopping a medication quickly can shock ones system and might cause further medical complications… the medications dont know that we are taking them for migraines…… I take a blood pressure medication called Inderal… if I were to stop taking this completely cold turkey, it might shock my pressure and system and cause all sorts of difficulities…… make sense? Kristen Leigh

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: Question: *Why* is it a "good idea" to wean yourself off of a medication : which is preventing migraines? Because stopping *any* medication too suddenly can shock the body and produce unpleasant effects. Priscilla

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Hi Debby, snip< Question: *Why* is it a "good idea" to wean yourself off of a medication which is preventing migraines? — Ninerfan

Hi Ninerfan, Sorry it has taken me so long to reply to your question. I’ve been taking nortriptyline in varying dosages for about six years. In the meantime, I have also taken various other combinations of medicine to prevent my migraines and to treat my chronic daily headaches.  In addition to the nortriptyline, I also take Verapamil (calan){as a preventative} which is a calcium-channel blocker usually prescribed for high blood pressure.  When I began taking the Verapamil several years ago, my chronic daily headaches disappeared almost immediately.  Unless I am extremely stressed, my migraines (with aura) are pretty infrequent and they respond well to a combination of midrin and compazine or to DHE. I started taking nortriptyline when I was first being treated for rebound headaches from taking too much tylenol.  At that time I was having headaches every day and migraines, as often as 2 – 3 times a week.  Since my headaches seem to be much less of a problem, it seems like a good idea to try to eliminate one of the medicines I take every day.  I expect to take Verapamil or other blood pressure medicines for quite some time since I am also taking them because I have moderately elevated blood pressure.  We’re trying to determine if I still need to take the nortriptyline anymore. I’m not a doctor nor do I play one on this newsgroup but I hope that this explanantion is helpful. Debby

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Question:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gee, that sounds even more fun!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PTSD                        1       What is that?          

PTSD=Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

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

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PTSD                    1       What is that?

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

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

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

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Question:

I have never had a problem with trembling, even at the height of panic…Since I started on Zoloft, I am definitly doing better with the panic, but notice I have a slight tremor in my left arm/hand..sometimes I feel as if my legs are shaking too..Is this a possible side effect of Zoloft? Thanks Laura

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Laura, yes zoloft can cause tremors but there is nothing to get worried about it is a possible side effect. If would ease your anxiety talk to your Dr. about it.

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