Question:

Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.

Response:

Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing?

My 17 yr old dughter uses Medrol. Her Dr. feels it has lesser side effects in long term use.We feel it has contributed to her having multiple fractures(however she is a gymnast). It makes her hungry, and moody as well as cousing some weight gain.

Response:

I have been on prednisone for 19 months now – ranging from 60 mg to 15 mg (can’t get below that).  I have had changes in my eye sight, depression, weight gain (60 lbs) and moonface.  Personally if I had a choice I wouldn’t use it any longer than I had to. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.

Response:

Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? My 17 yr old dughter uses Medrol. Her Dr. feels it has lesser side effects in long term use.We feel it has contributed to her having multiple fractures(however she is a gymnast). It makes her hungry, and moody as well as cousing some weight gain.

The fractures suggests osteoporosis. Has she had a test? DEXA scan or ultrasound. If she has osteoporosis is she taking calcium supplements and/or Fosomax plus vitamin D? Links on osteoporosis: http://odp.od.nih.gov/consensus/cons/111/111_statement.htm 111. Osteoporosis Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy    National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference Statement    March 27-29, 2000 http://www.vh.org/Providers/ClinRef/FPHandbook/Chapter07/14-7.html Gynecology: Osteoporosis http://www.osteo.org/ http://www.springnet.com/ce/p803b.htm Administering Steroids Successfully More info on osteoporosis searching google.com also try the NG sci.med.diseases.osteoporosis Ellis Ellis

Response:

Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.

Hiya – I have been taking daily Prednisone for the last three years.  I have taken a max of 90mg (when I had pneumonia) to my lowest at 20mg.  (I actually went lower than that once taking a hopefully-coming-out-soon inhaler called mometasone, but that doesnt really count). The main side effects I have, is hunger, major weight gain, a bit of adult acne and hair thinning.   My hair hasnt fallen out in clumps but there are some sorta bare spots. I cant tell you what you should do, but in my case I really had no choice.  I was going to the ER at least twice a week and wasn’t getting any better.  Im still on disability for the asthma, and I also take, daily, proventil neb, atrovent neb, claritin d, prilosec, flovent 220 x2 and serevent x2.  For me, the choice was steroids or breathing. I hope this has helped you.  If you have any questions please feel free to ask, or email me. Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

I’ve been on prednisone now for 12 years continuously, at varying dosages most of them above 50 mg a day. I have basically had no side effects, I don’t get depression, mood swings or any other of the emotional effects. I haven’t developed diabetes or cataracts. I have slight osteoporosis but this has not got any worse in the last 6 years since I’ve been taking calcium and calcitriol. I know I’m one of the lucky ones who hasn’t had any major problems but there must be more of us around. Hope this helps a little Renae

Response:

: Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you : post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list : of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using : Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B. If you can make a decision you should probably decide not to take it. Most of us take it when there is nothing left to stop the asthma. If you can find some other way to control your astma take it. That said the side effects vary from almost none to perforated ulcers and bowels, physocotic mood swings, mania, depression, weight gain, bone loss, and the list goes on. You can end up with adreanl shut down and not be able to get off it at all.  When it is the choice of predizone and breathing I choose breathing. — Gordon    W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger :

Response:

Hello: I Thank all who responded and those who gave specific personal information a special Thank You. Take Care. B. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.

Response:

I was on prednisone for almost two years straight, doses ranging from 110 mg/day to 10-15 mg/day. I had most of the side effects mentioned above plus I had weird skin discolorations in the places that I tended to gain the most weight. Now that I have been off of prednisone for several years now I still have to get bone density tests and cateract/glacoma tested every few years. If I had the choice to take it or not I can’t say that I’d go back to that again, but if it’s the choice between breathing and not I’d take it hands down. -M Hello: For those who are using Prednisone on a long term basis, can you post the actual side effects you are experiencing? I have read the list of possible side effects. Reason: I need to make a decision on using Prednisone for the long term. Thank You. Take Care. B.

Submitted via WebNewsReader of http://www.interbulletin.com

Response:

With me it has always been an easy choice- I want to live and therefore breath- inhaled steroids work up to a point and then I need heavy duty/short duration of prednisone. I would talk to Dr. and see what they think about high dose for short time rather then low dose for long time.  If  Dr. still thinks long term get on the lowest dose you can to maintain. Pam

Response:

I forgot to list the side effects that I have when on prednisone.  The worst for me to deal with is the emotional roll-a-coaster, and the "foggy" dull feeling that I am missing out on things that I should have gotten.  The next is the continuos head ache and stomach problems.  then the weight gain (because this lasts even after I am off) and the long term side effects that I have are cataracts and osteoporosis (I have bones of and 80 year old and I am in my 40’s).  I have had several "stress fractures".  so again if you can avoid it don’t use it.   Pam

Response:

Question:

Selling collection of approximately 3,000 to 3,500 vinyl 12" records. There is a mixture of Rap/Hip Hop, Dance, R&B, Soul, Techno, and Funk from the 80’s and 90’s.   Most are 12" singles, some full albums. Some have picture sleeves, some have generic or label covers. Conditions are mixed, most are in Near Mint condition.  There is no list, sorry.  $1500 bid + shipping.

Response:

Here’s the link: http://page.auctions.yahoo.com/auction/43211597 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Selling collection of approximately 3,000 to 3,500 vinyl 12" records. There is a mixture of Rap/Hip Hop, Dance, R&B, Soul, Techno, and Funk from the 80’s and 90’s.   Most are 12" singles, some full albums. Some have picture sleeves, some have generic or label covers. Conditions are mixed, most are in Near Mint condition.  There is no list, sorry.  $1500 bid + shipping.

Response:

Question:

In article <CBCDB80EF44270BC.26D7666505F55084.E728EE952AB90…@lp.airnews.net

, "Mark

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -and Kristy" <mearn…@airmail.net

wrote: Hey!  I’m new here, have schizophrenia, and I guess the reason I sought it out is cause I’m having negative symptoms for the first time.  I guess I thought it was related to the quitting smoking, but this may be the price I pay to live. This morning, and for the past four mornings, I didn’t get out of bed.  I missed school and three scheduled interviews.  Could this be seasonal, cyclical or something?  It is really the first time this has ever happened to me.  I was thinking about the word, "apathy."  But, I don’t think that’s it.  I still feel and care.  I just don’t have much energy.  I’m also paranoid about school right now.  I feel like they are telling me lies. I wonder if Y’all know what I mean?  Sounds like it.  I’ve never been in a support group for schizophrenics.  I’ve read books.  Blechy!  They make it sound worse than what I have experienced. . . . So, do you think I’m having negative symptoms?  Sure have had a lot of positive ones.  Voices and what not. Well, sorry to ramble on this way. Yours Truly, Kristy

My problem with not smoking is that I start to get TOO energized. I smoke a Cig and I feel (like crap) back to normal. I want to quit soon. Maybe for my birthday. sp

Response:

Risperdal also badly effects my respiratory system. The main reason I won’t take it. No point in being free of sz symptoms if you are dead. <chuckle

You had this too? when i told my doc that i found it hard to breathe, he was very dismissive that it was NOT the medication causing that. I was put on risperdal also. My lackage of energy increased on the meds and found myself sleeping way too much. When i was outside, walking up hills became very difficult to do, would quickly get out of breath. Before and after the meds…i am in physically good shape and find no problems walking up the hills.

Response:

Glad to you hear you are doing O.K. without regular medication.  I thought Risperidone caused weight gain but not as severely as some other anti-psychotics. I also tried Seroquel but noticed a return of my positive symptoms and quickly switched back to Risperidone.  I’ve also heard that Seroquel has few side-effects.  Hopefully it will be available in Australia soon and you can give it a try. Frank. Dan Coyote, Jon Steiner, Fritz on the fritz, BWAG!, Morpheus <Manage…@nospam.com

wrote in message

news:oBei4.52$643.2459@nsw.nnrp.telstra.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Frank wrote in message … Well I’ve stopped wearing my engineering ring because it’s simply too

tight

to get on and off without half removing my finger.  I have to get it resized.  I think this is due to weight gain though not drug-related swelling.  I can still get my wedding ring on, thank goodness. The main side-effects I’ve noticed from Risperidone are a slowed-down or sedated feeling, weight gain and a sexual side-effect when I was on

higher

doses.  Yes I realize it is very personal to mention this but I feel

people

should be open and informed about these things.  I think I’ve read that

the

sexual side-effect only occurs in a small number of people (just lucky I guess). Frank. Many people have mentioned a lessening of libido while on medication. It seems many if not most sz meds affect the sex drive. The weight gain problem of Risperdal was one of the reasons which

persuaded

me to stop taking drugs altogether. It is one of the more virulent meds in promoting weight gain, so I have

been

told by many sources. It was more important to loose weight because of the associated health problems than to worry about the problems of sz *in my case*. Risperdal also badly effects my respiratory system. The main reason I

won’t

take it. No point in being free of sz symptoms if you are dead. <chuckle I have stelizine as a back up if I need it but so far so good. If at all possible I will not take stelizine because of the very real dangers of developing TD…more so than with the newer drugs. I’ve been on the stuff for over 17 years, on and off. And as you may know, the longer you take some of the older drugs, the greater the danger of developing TD. The quantity is also a determining factor. I am waiting for seroquol <sp to come onto the Australian market. Many people say there isn’t the weight gain problem. BTW, it would have been "nice" if the initial "psychiatrist" had mentioned the long term dangers of stelizine. But this was way back in a time long ago when sufferers were not treated with respect. Has it really changed that much today, I sometimes wonder. Many, if not most of us, are between a rock and a hard place. Regards, Jon

Response:

Ditto to the Risperdal thing (I prefer to call it Risperidone).  I started on 3 mg./day and am now down to 1 mg./day.  I found it took a long time completely eliminate my positive symptoms so don’t expect any quick miracles. Frank. Mark and Kristy <mearn…@airmail.net

wrote in message

news:737B2E48E2248BD7.7AC8E6653E7646CA.939762A89352B8BB@lp.airnews.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Wow!  This is interesting!  I’m on the risperdal, too.  Could that be related? Your friend, Kristy

Response:

Frank wrote in message …

Well I’ve stopped wearing my engineering ring because it’s simply too tight to get on and off without half removing my finger.  I have to get it resized.  I think this is due to weight gain though not drug-related swelling.  I can still get my wedding ring on, thank goodness. The main side-effects I’ve noticed from Risperidone are a slowed-down or sedated feeling, weight gain and a sexual side-effect when I was on higher doses.  Yes I realize it is very personal to mention this but I feel people should be open and informed about these things.  I think I’ve read that the sexual side-effect only occurs in a small number of people (just lucky I guess). Frank.

Many people have mentioned a lessening of libido while on medication. It seems many if not most sz meds affect the sex drive. The weight gain problem of Risperdal was one of the reasons which persuaded me to stop taking drugs altogether. It is one of the more virulent meds in promoting weight gain, so I have been told by many sources. It was more important to loose weight because of the associated health problems than to worry about the problems of sz *in my case*. Risperdal also badly effects my respiratory system. The main reason I won’t take it. No point in being free of sz symptoms if you are dead. <chuckle

I have stelizine as a back up if I need it but so far so good. If at all possible I will not take stelizine because of the very real dangers of developing TD…more so than with the newer drugs. I’ve been on the stuff for over 17 years, on and off. And as you may know, the longer you take some of the older drugs, the greater the danger of developing TD. The quantity is also a determining factor. I am waiting for seroquol <sp

to come onto the Australian market. Many

people say there isn’t the weight gain problem. BTW, it would have been "nice" if the initial "psychiatrist" had mentioned the long term dangers of stelizine. But this was way back in a time long ago when sufferers were not treated with respect. Has it really changed that much today, I sometimes wonder. Many, if not most of us, are between a rock and a hard place. Regards, Jon

Response:

Wow, 400 hours of sick time.  You win this contest hands down.  You must have a very understanding employer, like me.  Do you find you are able to distinguish between the negative symptoms of your illness and the sedative effect of Risperidone?  I am never quite sure which one is causing my "negative-like" symptoms, especially when I was on a higher dose of Risperidone. Hang in there. Frank. pete_l <pete_lNOpeS…@altavista.com.invalid

wrote in message

news:37fa504d.1655f846@usw-ex0106-046.remarq.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hi Frank! I had 400 hours off sick last year.  I turned in at 8:30am and worked 9 hours straight today.  I take 4mg/risperidone day.  If you get a heavy negative period it stays around for weeks.  It is not just one day now and then.  Plus I found If I am getting pissed off and leaned on at work the negatives are harder to work through.  If that happens to you , kick someone. Regards, Peter * 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:

Well I’ve stopped wearing my engineering ring because it’s simply too tight to get on and off without half removing my finger.  I have to get it resized.  I think this is due to weight gain though not drug-related swelling.  I can still get my wedding ring on, thank goodness. The main side-effects I’ve noticed from Risperidone are a slowed-down or sedated feeling, weight gain and a sexual side-effect when I was on higher doses.  Yes I realize it is very personal to mention this but I feel people should be open and informed about these things.  I think I’ve read that the sexual side-effect only occurs in a small number of people (just lucky I guess). Frank. Dan Coyote, Jon Steiner, Fritz on the fritz, BWAG!, Morpheus <Manage…@nospam.com

wrote in message

news:wZPh4.165$%J2.8086@nsw.nnrp.telstra.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

<enter Jon Frank wrote in message … In my case I’m only on 1 mg./day of Risperidone so I would think any negative symptoms I feel are from my illness and not the medication. Side-effects should be pretty minimal at this dose. Have you ever experienced swelling of the limbs etc as a result of taking Risperadal? Jon

Response:

Yes I found that once a lot of supports were in place and I was on the risperadol I could wake up on time a lot more.  I don’t spend so much time in bed.  I am way more active now. Frank Levy <frank…@netcom.ca

wrote in message

news:Snmh4.205249$5r2.561603@tor-nn1.netcom.ca… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Has anyone found anything that helps with negative symptoms?  I am on Risperidone (1 mg./day) and in the package liner information it claims to help with negative symptoms but I don’t see much evidence of that.  It has my positive symptoms under control though so that’s something to be

thankful

for.  My negative symptoms have diminished somewhat over the past year or so.  I wonder if I can expect them to continue to diminish?

Response:

Frank, It is early days, but it seems to be doing the trick for me.  I hope it works for you too – good luck! Tony http://come.to/theloonybin "Frank" <frank…@netcom.ca

wrote in message

news:PgOh4.206678$5r2.563431@tor-nn1.netcom.ca… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

So you find Seroquel works for negative symptoms as well as positive?  I tried Seroquel when I was recovering from my psychosis and my psychotic symptoms returned so I quickly switched back to Risperidone.  Maybe I’ll

ask > my psychiatrist about Seroquel for negative symptoms.  Thanks for the tip. > Frank. > Vicky and Tony <vickyandt…@cwcom.net

wrote in message

> news:XCAh4.693$M47.11176@news1-hme0… > > Seroquel seems to be working for me Frank.  It was recommended to me as I

am very intolerant of psychiatric medications and so far I am happy with

it.

No real side effects (which is unusual for me) apart from a dry mouth – but that is easily cured Tony http://come.to/theloonybin

Response:

<enter Jon

Frank wrote in message …

In my case I’m only on 1 mg./day of Risperidone so I would think any negative symptoms I feel are from my illness and not the medication. Side-effects should be pretty minimal at this dose.

Have you ever experienced swelling of the limbs etc as a result of taking Risperadal? Jon

Response:

Hey!  I’m new here, have schizophrenia, and I guess the reason I sought it out is cause I’m having negative symptoms for the first time.  I guess I thought it was related to the quitting smoking, but this may be the price I pay to live. This morning, and for the past four mornings, I didn’t get out of bed.  I missed school and three scheduled interviews.  Could this be seasonal, cyclical or something?  It is really the first time this has ever happened to me.  I was thinking about the word, "apathy."  But, I don’t think that’s it.  I still feel and care.  I just don’t have much energy.  I’m also paranoid about school right now.  I feel like they are telling me lies. I wonder if Y’all know what I mean?  Sounds like it.  I’ve never been in a support group for schizophrenics.  I’ve read books.  Blechy!  They make it sound worse than what I have experienced. . . . So, do you think I’m having negative symptoms?  Sure have had a lot of positive ones.  Voices and what not. Well, sorry to ramble on this way. Yours Truly, Kristy

Response:

Wow!  This is interesting!  I’m on the risperdal, too.  Could that be related? Your friend, Kristy

Response:

Hi Kristy, Welcome to the group.  What you’re describing sounds like negative symptoms to me.  For myself lack of motivation is the biggest problem with a bit of apathy thrown in.  That seems to be what you are describing.  I also have trouble getting up at a specific time (especially early in the morning).  I usually am able to pull it off for something important like a meeting at work or a meeting with a client, something like that.  Where I have difficulty is on those regular everyday work days when nothing special is planned.  I find it really tough to get going on those days.  I used to find it hard to get ready to go out with friends or family as well but that seems to have diminished.  It’s mainly work related now. If your positive symptoms are disappearing I wouldn’t be surprised if the negatives are rolling on in.  I haven’t really found anything that helps although Tony has reported that Seroquel is doing the job for him (he just started on it recently).  Drinking coffee seems to help a little.  Of course you have to be out of bed to do that. Hope you feel better, Frank. Mark and Kristy <mearn…@airmail.net

wrote in message

news:CBCDB80EF44270BC.26D7666505F55084.E728EE952AB90237@lp.airnews.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hey!  I’m new here, have schizophrenia, and I guess the reason I sought it out is cause I’m having negative symptoms for the first time.  I guess I thought it was related to the quitting smoking, but this may be the price

I

pay to live. This morning, and for the past four mornings, I didn’t get out of bed.  I missed school and three scheduled interviews.  Could this be seasonal, cyclical or something?  It is really the first time this has ever happened to me.  I was thinking about the word, "apathy."  But, I don’t think

that’s

it.  I still feel and care.  I just don’t have much energy.  I’m also paranoid about school right now.  I feel like they are telling me lies. I wonder if Y’all know what I mean?  Sounds like it.  I’ve never been in a support group for schizophrenics.  I’ve read books.  Blechy!  They make it sound worse than what I have experienced. . . . So, do you think I’m

having

negative symptoms?  Sure have had a lot of positive ones.  Voices and what not. Well, sorry to ramble on this way. Yours Truly, Kristy

Response:

Well here I am again.  Home from work on a sick day.  I couldn’t get out of bed until 11:30 due to negative symptoms.  The only thing that finally got me out was to see what was new on the newsgroup.  Still I’m not doing too badly.  This is the first sick day I’ve taken in 2000.  Although I have taken a couple of vacation days.  I had over 200 hours of sick time last year.  For that I feel really guilty.  I’m hoping to do much better this year.  Sometimes I think I’m just lazy but I don’t really think that can be the case.  I very rarely missed any sick time before my sz. Has anyone found anything that helps with negative symptoms?  I am on Risperidone (1 mg./day) and in the package liner information it claims to help with negative symptoms but I don’t see much evidence of that.  It has my positive symptoms under control though so that’s something to be thankful for.  My negative symptoms have diminished somewhat over the past year or so.  I wonder if I can expect them to continue to diminish? I’m sure glad to have this computer.  It’s given me hours of enjoyment and allowed me to access this newsgroup. Frank.

Response:

In article <Snmh4.205249$5r2.561…@tor-nn1.netcom.ca

,

  "Frank Levy" <frank…@netcom.ca

wrote:

  I wonder if I can expect them to continue to diminish?

I’m sure glad to have this computer.  It’s given me hours of enjoyment and allowed me to access this newsgroup. Frank.

— It is not laziness but more like a vacuum or a rut, being in a rut was described as a grave with both ends kicked out, but I know how hard it is to get it in gear and doing simple things like keeping a room clean or maintaining things, I think we just quit like many who get into those depression ruts and stay there as a result of trauma or some other cause, but I have often wished that someone would kick me in the rear to get started again, since it can be tough to get motivated and the batteries recharged. I also think we lose focus or direction and things being difficult that use to come easy in decision making or thinking with common sense, knowing I was an accident just waiting to happen or a walking disaster and lost that capacity to care about people and understanding things for what they are and only seeing what we imagine things to be, reading more between the lines than what is black and white and often misunderstand motives etc., but for a year or so i just wanted to find a cave and stay there in just losing that will to keep going, having no feeling for anything or anybody, just got to roll the stone away and come out of the tomb which is a process and not a project, little by little and one day at a time in changing the direction of things. Crazy Lou http://www.grizzadam.com/ Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Response:

I know where you are coming from when you speak of reading (too much) between the lines and misinterpreting motives, etc.  This was one of my main problems when I was psychotic.  I thought everything someone said had an alternate meaning (something rude or negative) when it wasn’t intended that way at all.  I’m much better at this now. Frank. Grizz <loco…@worldnet.att.net

wrote in message

news:8655fs$l08$1@nnrp1.deja.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

In article <Snmh4.205249$5r2.561…@tor-nn1.netcom.ca,   "Frank Levy" <frank…@netcom.ca wrote:   I wonder if I can expect them to continue to diminish? I’m sure glad to have this computer.  It’s given me hours of enjoyment

and

allowed me to access this newsgroup. Frank. — It is not laziness but more like a vacuum or a rut, being in a rut was described as a grave with both ends kicked out, but I know how hard it is to get it in gear and doing simple things like keeping a room clean or maintaining things, I think we just quit like many who get into those depression ruts and stay there as a result of trauma or some other cause, but I have often wished that someone would kick me in the rear to get started again, since it can be tough to get motivated and the batteries recharged. I also think we lose focus or direction and things being difficult that use to come easy in decision making or thinking with common sense, knowing I was an accident just waiting to happen or a walking disaster and lost that capacity to care about people and understanding things for what they are and only seeing what we imagine things to be, reading more between the lines than what is black and white and often misunderstand motives etc., but for a year or so i just wanted to find a cave and stay there in just losing that will to keep going, having no feeling for anything or anybody, just got to roll the stone away and come out of the tomb which is a process and not a project, little by little and one day at a time in changing the direction of things. Crazy Lou http://www.grizzadam.com/ Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Response:

Seroquel seems to be working for me Frank.  It was recommended to me as I am very intolerant of psychiatric medications and so far I am happy with it. No real side effects (which is unusual for me) apart from a dry mouth – but that is easily cured Tony http://come.to/theloonybin

Response:

In article <Snmh4.205249$5r2.561…@tor-nn1.netcom.ca

, "Frank Levy"

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -<frank…@netcom.ca

wrote: Well here I am again.  Home from work on a sick day.  I couldn’t get out of bed until 11:30 due to negative symptoms.  The only thing that finally got me out was to see what was new on the newsgroup.  Still I’m not doing too badly.  This is the first sick day I’ve taken in 2000.  Although I have taken a couple of vacation days.  I had over 200 hours of sick time last year.  For that I feel really guilty.  I’m hoping to do much better this year.  Sometimes I think I’m just lazy but I don’t really think that can be the case.  I very rarely missed any sick time before my sz. Has anyone found anything that helps with negative symptoms?  I am on Risperidone (1 mg./day) and in the package liner information it claims to help with negative symptoms but I don’t see much evidence of that.  It has my positive symptoms under control though so that’s something to be thankful for.  My negative symptoms have diminished somewhat over the past year or so.  I wonder if I can expect them to continue to diminish? I’m sure glad to have this computer.  It’s given me hours of enjoyment and allowed me to access this newsgroup. Frank.

I’ve missed allot of work this last year because of Neg symptoms. I’ve been diagnosed with SZ for 20 years, but I’ve never had Neg symptoms before, so this is new to me. I’ve basically been in bed for a year. I drag myself to work, then come home and get in bed. I don’t go out, or do anything. Like you the one thing I do get out of bed for is to get on this newsgroup. Actually I think the meds are what’s causing the "lethargy" Neg symptoms. It’s gotten a little better lately, but still pretty bad. If you figure out an answer, tell me too. SP

Response:

It sure helps to reduce the isolation when you can’t get out!  And it’s something to look forward to! I think that it would be interesting to study the effect of the internet newsgroups and chat rooms on the psychiatric client community.  I imagine it’s opened up communication for a lot of people who previously could only ‘open up’ on the p-doc’s couch. Even a group as socially hidden as the schizophrenic community now finds itself able to share, communicate, and offer support.  What a difference! The ‘Global Village’ idiots rise up, band together,  and discover that they are people, too!  (I mean that in a nice way!  ;-)   ) Love, Strength, and Courage. Frank Levy <frank…@netcom.ca

wrote in message

news:Snmh4.205249$5r2.561603@tor-nn1.netcom.ca… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Well here I am again.  Home from work on a sick day.  I couldn’t get out

of

bed until 11:30 due to negative symptoms.  The only thing that finally got me out was to see what was new on the newsgroup.  Still I’m not doing too badly.  This is the first sick day I’ve taken in 2000.  Although I have taken a couple of vacation days.  I had over 200 hours of sick time last year.  For that I feel really guilty.  I’m hoping to do much better this year.  Sometimes I think I’m just lazy but I don’t really think that can

be

the case.  I very rarely missed any sick time before my sz. Has anyone found anything that helps with negative symptoms?  I am on Risperidone (1 mg./day) and in the package liner information it claims to help with negative symptoms but I don’t see much evidence of that.  It has my positive symptoms under control though so that’s something to be

thankful

for.  My negative symptoms have diminished somewhat over the past year or so.  I wonder if I can expect them to continue to diminish? I’m sure glad to have this computer.  It’s given me hours of enjoyment and allowed me to access this newsgroup. Frank.

Response:

Hi Frank! I had 400 hours off sick last year.  I turned in at 8:30am and worked 9 hours straight today.  I take 4mg/risperidone day.  If you get a heavy negative period it stays around for weeks.  It is not just one day now and then.  Plus I found If I am getting pissed off and leaned on at work the negatives are harder to work through.  If that happens to you , kick someone. Regards, Peter * 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:

So you find Seroquel works for negative symptoms as well as positive?  I tried Seroquel when I was recovering from my psychosis and my psychotic symptoms returned so I quickly switched back to Risperidone.  Maybe I’ll ask my psychiatrist about Seroquel for negative symptoms.  Thanks for the tip. Frank. Vicky and Tony <vickyandt…@cwcom.net

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Seroquel seems to be working for me Frank.  It was recommended to me as I

am

very intolerant of psychiatric medications and so far I am happy with it. No real side effects (which is unusual for me) apart from a dry mouth –

but

that is easily cured Tony http://come.to/theloonybin

Response:

Yea, the meds can definitely cause negative-like symptoms as well. Sometimes it’s hard to know which symptoms are from the illness and which are from the meds.  I’ve asked my psychiatrist how you can tell whether your "negative-like" symptoms are caused by the illness or the meds and she always says "I don’t know". In my case I’m only on 1 mg./day of Risperidone so I would think any negative symptoms I feel are from my illness and not the medication. Side-effects should be pretty minimal at this dose. Anyway, hang in there and I hope you feel better.  At least we still make it to work most of the time, right.  There’s something positive there! Frank. Spiritus <spiri…@sanctus.org

wrote in message

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In article <Snmh4.205249$5r2.561…@tor-nn1.netcom.ca, "Frank Levy" <frank…@netcom.ca wrote: Well here I am again.  Home from work on a sick day.  I couldn’t get out

of

bed until 11:30 due to negative symptoms.  The only thing that finally

got

me out was to see what was new on the newsgroup.  Still I’m not doing

too

badly.  This is the first sick day I’ve taken in 2000.  Although I have taken a couple of vacation days.  I had over 200 hours of sick time last year.  For that I feel really guilty.  I’m hoping to do much better this year.  Sometimes I think I’m just lazy but I don’t really think that can

be

the case.  I very rarely missed any sick time before my sz. Has anyone found anything that helps with negative symptoms?  I am on Risperidone (1 mg./day) and in the package liner information it claims

to

help with negative symptoms but I don’t see much evidence of that.  It

has

my positive symptoms under control though so that’s something to be

thankful

for.  My negative symptoms have diminished somewhat over the past year

or

so.  I wonder if I can expect them to continue to diminish? I’m sure glad to have this computer.  It’s given me hours of enjoyment

and

allowed me to access this newsgroup. Frank. I’ve missed allot of work this last year because of Neg symptoms. I’ve

been

diagnosed with SZ for 20 years, but I’ve never had Neg symptoms before, so this is new to me. I’ve basically been in bed for a year. I drag myself to work, then come home and get in bed. I don’t go out, or do anything. Like you the one thing I do get out of bed for is to get on this newsgroup. Actually I think the meds are what’s causing the "lethargy" Neg symptoms. It’s gotten a little better lately, but still pretty bad. If you figure

out

an answer, tell me too. SP

Response:

My negative symptoms went away for a day.  I got lots of laundry done.  I felt energized and motivated. The only recent change, that might be a cause, is that I have been taking a Probiotic called Culturelle for three days. It is much too soon to draw any conclusions. Nothing I have ever previously done has helped with negative symptoms, so this effect is a surprise.

Response:

newer meds helped me get more work done less sleeping all day — Peter Timusk B.Math Just trying to stay linear www3.sympatico.ca/ptimusk www.webpagex.org "Cubit" <n…@no.not

wrote in message

news:E8sUb.20467$yD.4227@newssvr27.news.prodigy.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

My negative symptoms went away for a day.  I got lots of laundry done.  I felt energized and motivated. The only recent change, that might be a cause, is that I have been taking

a

Probiotic called Culturelle for three days. It is much too soon to draw any conclusions. Nothing I have ever previously done has helped with negative symptoms, so this effect is a surprise.

Response:

Question:

My jogging results decreased considarably when using an antidepressant. (Forgot the name, started with an i )

Imipramine? Besides that, I slept poor, had problems with shitting (sorry, don’t know a good english phrase), dizzyness when standing up and more.

Yup.  That sounds like imipramine. Imipramine’s common side effects include   sedation   dry mouth   blurred vision   urinary retention   constipation   orthostatic hypotension (dizzyness when standing up)   weight gain (moderate)   myoclonus (involuntary muscle jerks, especially at night)   lowered blood pressure   increased heart rate In my own experience, imipramine puts me to sleep very effectively, but I often wake up after two or three hours, and sometimes have trouble getting back to sleep afterwards. I haven’t heard of any special problems with running, although sedation could be the problem, I suppose. Anyway, if you can’t tolerate the side effects, there are many other antidepressants that don’t have these particular ones.  You should mention the problems to your doctor and ask whether it would be advisable to change drugs. S. suricata

Response:

Hello folks– I’ve been prescribed Effexor XR for just over a month for moderate depression. I started at the lower doses of 37.5 and 75 mg. for two weeks, and I’ve been on the 150 mg. dose (once a day) for nearly 3 weeks.  I’ve had very few of the *customary* side effects and I’m tolerating the 150 mg. dose well, and the medication is really working well at alleviating my depression. However, I think the medication is negatively affecting my harder runs–specifically my recent 5K to 5 mile races, and my tempo/interval workout on Wednesday evenings.  For example, I’ve slowed down about 1:30 for my 5K time (29:15 in mid-November to 30:45 on New Year’s Day), and I’m considerably slower running my interval workout when I take my pill the morning of the workout.  Yesterday I experimented by skipping my pill, and ran my workout great–like before I started on the medication.  However, last nite I had very vivid dreams while sleeping (the second time this has happened), and felt groggy when getting up–which passed after I took my pill after eating breakfast this morning. Does anyone here on the newsgroups know specifically about the cardiovascular effects of anti-depressants?  Will my running/training be compromised for as long as I’m on the medication?  I’ll be mentioning this to my psychiatrist when I see her soon, but I thought I’d ask about it here first.  Since she told me that I could expect to be on medication this time for over a year (this is my 3rd recurrence of depression in 16 years), I’d really like to get this little *wrinkle* straightened out sooner instead of later! Thanks in advance– Jean Barto Newport News, VA — "If you are going through hell, keep going." Winston Churchill

Response:

Venlafaxine (Effexor) has a minor CNS depressant effect that in theory *could* have affected your performance. In general, sports and meds should be kept separate if possible. M99

Response:

My jogging results decreased considarably when using an antidepressant. (Forgot the name, started with an i ) Besides that, I slept poor, had problems with shitting (sorry, don’t know a good english phrase), dizzyness when standing up and more.

Response:

Question:

Well, I just had a Dr appt. today and she gave me zoloft. I have also been on xanax for 3 weeks. What will zoloft do for me? side effects? I have panic attacks and depression but they want to work on the panic first. If both drugs are for panic, why do i need both? How will zoloft make me feel? Will i tell a difference?

Zoloft is a SSRI-type antidepressant often prescribed for panic/anxiety (PAD). As PAD and depression are chemical cousins most antidepressants are effectively used for PAD as well. So if you take Zoloft it’s for depression as well as for PAD. Xanax is a benzodazepine (*benzo*, minor tranquillizer) which as a rule works very well for PAD. In the beginning you may experience some drowsiness but that usually subsides. Zoloft, like all AD’s can worsen your symptoms at the beginning when your body is adjusting to it. This is why it’s important to start on a low dose, slowly raise it and have a benzo like Xanax on the side to avoid too much trouble with initial side effects. You don’t say on what dose of Zoloft and Xanax you are now. You should give Zoloft some weeks to kick in. For a trial about eight weeks are necessary. The idea is that you will feel *normal* after some time which may be an enormous relief. A common side effect with Zoloft and other AD’s from the SSRI-group is sexual dysfunction. If you experience that there are some reasonable band-aid solutions for that apart from changing meds of course. Zoloft and Xanax make a good combo, give it enough time, I’d say and have some patience (I *hate* having patience…) Also, I do not work b/c of my panic attacks. I have not worked in 6yrs b/c i had a child and stayed home with him and since Aug 97 my attacks are so bad i CANNOT work. I have no insurance & do not qualify for state & fed. help because I live with my fiance. He makes little so we cannot afford ins. Someone told me to try ssi. Would they help? I have only been on meds for 3 weeks.

Not being from the US I can’t comment on that but others will. Philip

Response:

<snipped The worst side effect a the high dose limits was first a difficulty in achieving orgasm and then over time the inability to have any orgasms at all. I did not have the nausea and headaches that some people experience, even starting at the 50mg and quickly going to 100mg. I’m just giving my experiences. You can expect any of what I and the other posters may experience. We all differ; the side effects differ. JaneG

Hi Jane, I was also on Zoloft for a time, and had the very same S/E. Needless to say, I tossed them out the door. When I asked my Doc about the loss of sexual interest, she kinda laughed and asked me didin’t I know? I told her hell no! So we went on to a new med.Zoloft was the only AD that made me feel this way. Thanks for posting! Stephanie  :-)

Response:

Well, I just had a Dr appt. today and she gave me zoloft. I have also been onxanax for 3 weeks. What will zoloft do for me? side effects? I have panic attacks and depression but they want to work on the panic first. If both drugs are for panic, why do i need both? How will zoloft make me feel? Will i tell a difference? Also, I do not work b/c of my panic attacks. I have not worked in 6yrs b/c i had a child and stayed home with him and since Aug 97 my attacks are so bad i CANNOT work. I have no insurance & do not qualify for state & fed. help because I live with my fiance. He makes little so we cannot afford ins. Someone told me to try ssi. Would they help? I have only been on meds for 3 weeks.

Welcome to ASD I see that others have responded to the differences between the benzos and AD’s, so I’ll share what I can on my personal use of Zoloft. My pdoc started me on 50mg Zoloft gradually increasing to 100 mg in two weeks. That may seem fast to some people here, but I have been on many SSRI’s over the past years, and it seemed about right for me. I had no side effects initially, as some people have mentioned, starting out and then increasing the dose. That is just me though. During the 7 months on Zoloft, I lost 60 pounds, ( I gained 90 on the others, so this was a god send for me). Again, some will expereince weight loss, some no changes, and some of us gain weight on Zoloft. This was the second best SSRI that I have been on in terms of treating the depression, with few side effects, and going beyond by actually making me feel better than "not depressed"; I actually felt "good". Other side effects, were at higher doses, ie. at 200mg and 250mg. They included the inability to cry. No way, just couldn’t do it, even with a death in the family; I appeared stoic. The worst side effect a the high dose limits was first a difficulty in achieving orgasm and then over time the inability to have any orgasms at all. I did not have the nausea and headaches that some people experience, even starting at the 50mg and quickly going to 100mg. I’m just giving my experiences. You can expect any of what I and the other posters may experience. We all differ; the side effects differ. JaneG

Response:

MandMandM3 wrote . What will zoloft do for me? side effects? I’ve Been on 200 mg. of Zoloft of 6 years. My doc started me off slowly, 50mg. increase every 2 weeks.  I didn’t notice any side effects, except a slight losted interest in sex.  It did do wonders for the depression.  The main thing I noticed is that I feed like the same person without the intense depression. Hope it helps you Fred

Response:

<snipped for space Someone told me to try ssi. Would they help? I have only been on meds for 3 weeks.

SSI is a supplemental security program for low income households, you may qualify for this.  SSD is disability and Panic and anxiety both qualify as a disability for this benefit. Call 800-772-1213 and ask about both benefits, you can apply over the phone and when it comes time for the doctors exam one can be sent to your home. Cathy

Response:

Well, I just had a Dr appt. today and she gave me zoloft. I have also been onxanax for 3 weeks. What will zoloft do for me? side effects? I have panic attacks and depression but they want to work on the panic first. If both drugs are for panic, why do i need both? How will zoloft make me feel? Will i tell a difference? Also, I do not work b/c of my panic attacks. I have not worked in 6yrs b/c i had a child and stayed home with him and since Aug 97 my attacks are so bad i CANNOT work. I have no insurance & do not qualify for state & fed. help because I live with my fiance. He makes little so we cannot afford ins. Someone told me to try ssi. Would they help? I have only been on meds for 3 weeks.

Hi and welcome to ASAP, Zoloft is a SSRI antidepressant, whereas Xanax is a benzodiazepine, the same medication family as Valium. So Zoloft should treat both your anxiety and depression. There are several reasons why your doc is suggesting Zoloft instead of Xanax, but the main one is undoubtedly that many doctors (wrongly) treat benzodiazepines with great suspicion. Antidepressants (ADs) do have the advantage that they actually create often long-lasting changes within the brain. It is thought that the reason some of us develop anxiety/panic and/or depression is that our brains fail to correctly adapt to stress. ADs force the required adaption. A couple of things that you should know. First, most doctors suggest a starting dose that is too high for those of us with anx/pan. As a guide, a starting dose of about 1/4 of the smallest tab size is about right for most. In the case of Zoloft thats 1/4 of 50mg. The tabs are already scored to make it easier to divide in half, a pill cutter [from the pharmacy] will make it easier to cut them again.) NOTE: discuss this with your doctor **FIRST** please, **NEVER** make changes without his/her knowledge. ADs, unlike benzos, do not have an immediate effect, the physical changes take time to occur. It can take up to 8 weeks for ADs to ‘kick-in,’ but the average would be 2 to 4 weeks. Many ADs will make the anxiety worse initially, which is one reason that a low initial dose and slow increases are advisable. Having the support of Xanax during this period will make things a lot easier. My last point is that none of these meds are magic bullets. They will help you to stabilise your life and ease your recovery, but you will need to put a lot of effort into this too. Once you are feeling less anxious, talk to your doctor about doing a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) course. An explanation of what CBT is all about can be found at:       www.cognitivetherapy.com/fuller.htm Your doctor will be able to recommend a therapist in your area. Good luck Ian

Response:

Well, I just had a Dr appt. today and she gave me zoloft. I have also been on xanax for 3 weeks. What will zoloft do for me? side effects? I have panic attacks and depression but they want to work on the panic first. If both drugs are for panic, why do i need both? How will zoloft make me feel? Will i tell a difference? Also, I do not work b/c of my panic attacks. I have not worked in 6yrs b/c i had a child and stayed home with him and since Aug 97 my attacks are so bad i CANNOT work. I have no insurance & do not qualify for state & fed. help because I live with my fiance. He makes little so we cannot afford ins. Someone told me to try ssi. Would they help? I have only been on meds for 3 weeks.

Response:

I am on xanax & zoloft already. Today my Dr also gave me risperdal. She almost went with lithium. Does anyone know anything about risperdal?

Risperdal is a rather new *antipsychotic*. I feel that anipsychotics have no place in the treatment of anxiety disorders unless at a low dose as an adjunct med for mood swings. Is this why it was prescribed to you? Philip

Response:

Risperdal is a rather new *antipsychotic*. I feel that anipsychotics have no place in the treatment of anxiety disorders unless at a low dose as an adjunct med for mood swings. Is this why it was prescribed to you?

Actually, they can be good for very severe insomnia or agitation…. -elizabeth

Response:

Risperdal is a rather new *antipsychotic*. I feel that anipsychotics have no place in the treatment of anxiety disorders unless at a low dose as an adjunct med for mood swings. Is this why it was prescribed to you? Actually, they can be good for very severe insomnia or agitation…. -elizabeth

As adjunct meds. It is preferable not to address each symptom with a different med. The art of treating PD with meds consists of finding the *right* med and if that’s not possible with *one* med, to proceed from there. Some people seem to be resistant to anti-anxiety meds – a question mark here considering the question whether the diagnosis was right – and that’s where other meds – like antipsychotics – may have to come in but it’s not a first choice by any stretch of the imagination (I recently learned this expression and now I want to use it too;)) Philip

Response:

As adjunct meds. It is preferable not to address each symptom with a different med. The art of treating PD with meds consists of finding the *right* med and if that’s not possible with *one* med, to proceed from there. Some people seem to be resistant to anti-anxiety meds – a question mark here considering the question whether the diagnosis was right – and that’s where other meds – like antipsychotics – may have to come in but it’s not a first choice by any stretch of the imagination (I recently learned this expression and now I want to use

it too;)) Well used You’re right, they’re not first-choice for anxiety, and I don’t know whether there’s any evidence that they will help with "pure" panic. On the other hand, some people who have insomnia that doesn’t go away when the anxiety or mood disorder is treated find that antipsychotics help them sleep and don’t lose effectiveness with time. (I should note that this was not my experience with them, though.) Similarly, some people find that antipsychotics are uniquely efficacious for their particular anxiety. ("Anxiety" being a pretty broad term.) Also bear in mind that PD isn’t the only type of anxiety disorder, and that other anxiety disorders often are responsive to meds that don’t work for PD. (One word: BuSpar.) Since anxiety disorders and other things – depression, bipolar II, personality disorders, etc. – occur together so often, a lot of people do need to use unusual med combinations. -elizabeth

Response:

I am on xanax & zoloft already. Today my Dr also gave me risperdal. She almost went with lithium. Does anyone know anything about risperdal?

Response:

Question:

dear jm, one more thing the zolof ( not sure of the spelling, )  but it kept me awake also.  But imipramine which is for depression  didnt.  It took about a week for my mind to shut off at night and now i sleep real well most of the time only once in a while i wake with the rapid heart beat of anxiety.  

Response:

– I am a 33 year old married mother of 3. And I have anxiety attacks and depression, I also suffer from migraines that leave me sick for days. Sometimes I don:t want to face the world, This is hard for my husband to understand, And even harded on the kids.

I sympathize with you completely….did you ever snap at your family because they bothered you in the middle of an attack?  I have (not meaning to of course).  My husband just barely understands my problem…..but I don’t he really gets the full picture of it. I take medication Zoloft.Xanax andAlprazolam Plus St. John Wort. Hopeing something will help. Everytime I have a pain I think I am dieing. I can"t sleep at night. And I am up all alone, which makes it worst. I want to be happy and enjoy life.

Usually I prefer to be alone when my attacks happen because I feel no one has to see me go looney (I’ve caught my daughter watch me once and I think it kinda scared her).  My doctor (family) tells me I am to young for the other medications. But I need help. I can"t go on like this. I would like a piece of mind. And maybe for someone to understand want I am going though. Does anyone have any answers? I guess it"s been harder because both of my brothers have pass away. and I only have my husband,kids and my mother. People think you can just jump up and be happy. But it doesn"t work that way for me. help.

It’s funny, my father has this condition and now that he’s on Paxil and feeling better, he’s less sympathic with me (although in some cases, he understands). I definitely feel the same way you do, and I’m glad you came out with your feelings.  It’s good to know someone else out there feels the same way. Believe me, you are not alone.  I just discovered that now when I found this group. Thank you guys for being here.  Now I don’t feel so isolated. ANDI http://www.geocities.com/TelevisionCity/6104/index.html (The Monkees Pics N Stuff Webpage) "And in the end, the love you take,  is equal to the love you make." – Lennon/McCartney

Response:

my attacks seemed to stem rom an obsession with my heart rate. my doctor gave me a beta bloacker, inderal, which took care of this. it did wonders. talk that over with your doc. once i got rid of the heart rate thing i could deal with the attacks much more effectively. "funny thing i learned about food, the more you eat…the more you NEW BOLLARD WEB PAGE…. http://members.aol.com/papilln/index.html                           cider,lost love and road trips.    

Response:

Usually I prefer to be alone when my attacks happen because I feel no one has

to see me go looney< Touche Andrea, I can’t stand to have anyone around. It is not *normal* to crawl around on all fours like an animal that’s wounded.  To have someone watching me makes it worse. On the bright side, I haven’t had a P/A in 4 months and consider myself lucky that I have triggers and could easily eliminate them. Kathi Kathi

Response:

hi – we all know what you are going through in this group.  It is very hard for families to understand this illness – everyone is always telling us to "snap out of it" and "if you make up your mind to do something, you can do it".  If they had to live with this for only one day, I think they might be more sympathetic.  I am 48 and have 2 children.  They do understand to a point and my 19 year old is a big help to me, as is my husband – but only when it is convenient for them.  Otherwise, I get  that disgusted look people are so quick to give.  I take Xanax when I feel I need it.  That alprazolam is just a generic form of Xanax – you don’t need both.  I never took my Zoloft or Paxil long enough for it to do me any good – I have a thing about being dependent on pills.  How long have you taken this stuff?  It takes at least a month to "kick in".  And how long have you been suffering with the attacks?  I believe the depression comes from having them.  For you to have migraines as well must be very debilitating.  I had agoraphobic and attacks in my 20’s; then for some mysterious reason I was well for 18 years.  That first time, I had horrible headaches (migraines?), too.  But it was from the stress, I think.  Maybe it is with you, too, and as you start feeling better they will lessen.  I can relate to everything you said.  Now that I’m sick again, worse than ever, I can sympathize.  Just try to take it one day at a time.  Try to keep busy – I find when I get involved with something – housework or reading, whatever, I don’t think about every little thing that is going on with my body.  We anxious people have a tendency to feel too much of what is going on and get that "feel like we’re going to die" feeling a lot.  If you feel like talking to me and it AOL.com  -  stay calm Cheryl

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -hi – we all know what you are going through in this group.  It is very hard for families to understand this illness – everyone is always telling us to "snap out of it" and "if you make up your mind to do something, you can do it". If they had to live with this for only one day, I think they might be more sympathetic.  I am 48 and have 2 children.  They do understand to a point and my 19 year old is a big help to me, as is my husband – but only when it is convenient for them.  Otherwise, I get  that disgusted look people are so quick to give.  I take Xanax when I feel I need it.  That alprazolam is just a generic form of Xanax – you don’t need both.  I never took my Zoloft or Paxil long enough for it to do me any good – I have a thing about being dependent on pills.  How long have you taken this stuff?  It takes at least a month to "kick in".  And how long have you been suffering with the attacks?  I believe the depression comes from having them.  For you to have migraines as well must be very debilitating.  I had agoraphobic and attacks in my 20’s; then for some mysterious reason I was well for 18 years.  That first time, I had horrible headaches (migraines?), too.  But it was from the stress, I think.  Maybe it is with you, too, and as you start feeling better they will lessen.  I can relate to everything you said.  Now that I’m sick again, worse than ever, I can sympathize.  Just try to take it one day at a time.  Try to keep busy – I find when I get involved with something – housework or reading, whatever, I don’t think about every little thing that is going on with my body.  We anxious people have a tendency to feel too much of what is going on and get that "feel like we’re going to die" feeling a lot.  If you feel like talking to me and it AOL.com  -  stay calm Cheryl

Thank you for understanding (sorry if I’m being redundant) and I appreciate the support you and the rest of the newsgroup is giving me.  I could sure use the helping hand.  ANDI http://www.geocities.com/TelevisionCity/6104/index.html (The Monkees Pics N Stuff Webpage) "And in the end, the love you take,  is equal to the love you make." – Lennon/McCartney

Response:

Andi – I am sorry that you are going threw this type of thing. No one will ever really understand unless they have lived threw it. I know this may sound mean, but I have been so mad at one point at my co workers and family – that I have WISHED this on them – just for 2 days and 2 nights at it’s WORST. I hope that doesn’t make me an evil person. I think that if they did experience some of what you are going threw – then they’d understand. At least there is this newsgroup so you can relate to  others dealing with the same types of things. Take care. – Spoon.

Response:

Frombufalo schreef: Usually I prefer to be alone when my attacks happen because I feel no one has to see me go looney< Touche Andrea, I can’t stand to have anyone around. It is not *normal* to crawl around on all fours like an animal that’s wounded.  To have someone watching me makes it worse. On the bright side, I haven’t had a P/A in 4 months and consider myself lucky that I have triggers and could easily eliminate them. Kathi Kathi

Hey Kath! There’s two of you now? Philip

Response:

Usually I prefer to be alone when my attacks happen because I feel no one has to see me go looney<

I find that, if someone else is around and I share what I’m going through, it only makes them nervous as there’s nothing they can do and usually they are afraid of doing something wrong. OTOH, it’s sometimes scary to be alone inthe middle of a real PA. I guess I just like to have my close persons know I’m having a problem and there’s nothing for them to do, so they won’t wonder why I can’t concentrate, etc., and try to help with no results or negative results. Gordon Held

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Andi – I am sorry that you are going threw this type of thing. No one will ever really understand unless they have lived threw it. I know this may sound mean, but I have been so mad at one point at my co workers and family – that I have WISHED this on them – just for 2 days and 2 nights at it’s WORST. I hope that doesn’t make me an evil person. I think that if they did experience some of what you are going threw – then they’d understand. At least there is this newsgroup so you can relate to  others dealing with the same types of things. Take care. – Spoon.

You are not mean…..I’ve wished this on a person or two, just so they could see that I’m not trying to make excuses for not going places or doing things.  I especially wish it on them 2 fold, when they made stupid remarks like "get over it" or "you just don’t want to deal with (a particular situation)", or my favorite "not that excuse again!"  ANDI http://www.geocities.com/TelevisionCity/6104/index.html (The Monkees Pics N Stuff Webpage) "And in the end, the love you take,  is equal to the love you make." – Lennon/McCartney

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Dear Andi5555   I am so sorry to hear that you feel the way I do.  The headaches get so bad that I spend 2 or 3  days in the bed. No one understands., they think it"s a small headache. I have to be in a dark room with no sound. I can"t eat and I don"t feel like moving. And when they do go away, I feel week for acouple of days. My 2 older kids 16 & 14 get by o.k. But it is hard on the 3 year old. I just hope that as I get older they will go away. People have tolded me that sometimes they do. I just pray and ask God to help me get though it.  This is alot of help to talk to other people who feel the same way. Have a Happy New Years and here"s  to a new year without PAD &

Response:

Dear Andi5555   I am so sorry to hear that you feel the way I do.  The headaches get so bad that I spend 2 or 3  days in the bed. No one understands., they think it"s a small headache. I have to be in a dark room with no sound. I can"t eat and I don"t feel like moving. And when they do go away, I feel week for acouple of days. My 2 older kids 16 & 14 get by o.k. But it is hard on the 3 year old. I just hope that as I get older they will go away. People have tolded me that sometimes they do. I just pray and ask God to help me get though it.  This is alot of help to talk to other people who feel the same way. Have a Happy New Years and here"s  to a new year without PAD &

Hi Mechelle, I was reading your post and your description of your headaches caught my attention. Have you been to the doctor and explained how bad your suffering with these headaches??  This IMO,  is  more than a tension or stress related headache……sounds like a migraine. I suffer from migraines, my last one lasted two or three days, I get incredibly nauseous and can`t eat or drink, I need quiet( a joke with a 4 year old) and no lights. I can`t concentrate and it hurts to talk, can`t drive either, and I usually end up anxious because the pain is so intense. There are many new meds for migraines, you should really press your doctor on this issue, tylenol or aspirin doesn`t cut it with migraines…. I white-knuckle my pain, because I am a med-phobic, strangely enough, since being on Paxil I have been having them much less……which makes me quite happy!!  Hope you are feeling better soon, and remember there is no reason to suffer with these headaches!! Jackie ) Love is as much of an object as an obsession, everybody wants it, everybody seeks it, but few ever achieve it, those who do will cherish it, be lost in it, and among all.. never…never forget it.

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I suffer from migraines, my last one lasted two or three days, snipped I white-knuckle my pain, because I am a med-phobic, strangely enough, since being on Paxil I have been having them much less……which makes me quite happy!!   Jackie )

Nothing strange about that Jackie. The newer migraine meds affect the brain’s serotonin pathways, although in a slightly different way to SSRIs. Ian

Response:

My wife also suffers from severe migraines and has tried dozens of meds with little or no success, except for one. Amitriptyline is the only thing that has ever worked for her, but it takes weeks to kick in and stop the migraines. YMMV but have watched her suffer for years and have never seen her feeling so good – she takes only 25 mg/day. Also it was prescriber by a neurologist who has seen more success with this than any of the new "wonder" drugs for migraines. I wish you lots of luck in finding a remedy. Purple Panic – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dear Andi5555   I am so sorry to hear that you feel the way I do.  The headaches get so bad that I spend 2 or 3  days in the bed. No one understands., they think it"s a small headache. I have to be in a dark room with no sound. I can"t eat and I don"t feel like moving. And when they do go away, I feel week for acouple of days. My 2 older kids 16 & 14 get by o.k. But it is hard on the 3 year old. I just hope that as I get older they will go away. People have tolded me that sometimes they do. I just pray and ask God to help me get though it.  This is alot of help to talk to other people who feel the same way. Have a Happy New Years and here"s  to a new year without PAD & Hi Mechelle, I was reading your post and your description of your headaches caught my attention. Have you been to the doctor and explained how bad your suffering with these headaches??  This IMO,  is  more than a tension or stress related headache……sounds like a migraine. I suffer from migraines, my last one lasted two or three days, I get incredibly nauseous and can`t eat or drink, I need quiet( a joke with a 4 year old) and no lights. I can`t concentrate and it hurts to talk, can`t drive either, and I usually end up anxious because the pain is so intense. There are many new meds for migraines, you should really press your doctor on this issue, tylenol or aspirin doesn`t cut it with migraines…. I white-knuckle my pain, because I am a med-phobic, strangely enough, since being on Paxil I have been having them much less……which makes me quite happy!!  Hope you are feeling better soon, and remember there is no reason to suffer with these headaches!! Jackie ) Love is as much of an object as an obsession, everybody wants it, everybody seeks it, but few ever achieve it, those who do will cherish it, be lost in it, and among all.. never…never forget it.

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I know exactly what you are going through. I also have three children and anxiety is ruining my life.  I haven’t been to work in three weeks because it has gotten so bad. The bills are mounting and I still don’t feel up to going back.  I can’t even get through the grocery store yet      I just want to feel normal again.  I’m learning to deal with the attacks right when they start..but sometimes they are much stronger than me.  Those are the ones that worry me as far as returning to work goes.      I want my kids to enjoy their lives and I want to be a part of that. There are times I just feel like giving up, but I can’t because of them.  They want to go to movies and I always have to make some excuse up because I don’t want them to know that their mother can’t stand to venture too far from home. The worst part is that home is starting to make me crazy because I really need to get out more…….but my anxiety doesn’t allow that all too often.      All I can do is just pray this thing will go away and I can get my life back.  I’m going to fight to get my life back…it may be the hardest thing I’ll ever have to do…..but what other choice do I have???.

Response:

I understand, and i am sorry to see you go through this too.  I am also a mother of two with my boyfriend of 10 years.  I have had anxieties for the 10years accompanied with panic attacks just recently in the past month.  I am agoraphobic and can’t drive at the time, but will again, soon i am hoping.  I am depressed alot too, but i think of my kids and that is why i am here for them.  If it means dealing with anxiety daily i will do it for them and for me to get better soon.  You must trust in the Lord and look for strength and guidance and direction, you will find it and you will be happy again, you must believe that.

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I feel for you. My daughter has panic attacks. It started when she was ten. She didnt want to go to school. It got so bad she dint want to go anywhere.  She had to be with me at all times. Shes been on Zoloft. Shes happy back at school.  She still has episodes. Shell make plans to go to the mall and then cancel at the last minute.Sometimes shell go and sometimes she wont.

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I am a 33 year old married mother of 3. And I have anxiety attacks and depression, I also suffer from migraines that leave me sick for days. Sometimes I don:t want to face the world, This is hard for my husband to understand, And even harded on the kids. I take medication Zoloft.Xanax andAlprazolam Plus St. John Wort. Hopeing something will help. Everytime I have a pain I think I am dieing. I can"t sleep at night. And I am up all alone, which makes it worst. I want to be happy and enjoy life. My doctor (family) tells me I am to young for the other medications. But I need help. I can"t go on like this. I would like a piece of mind. And maybe for someone to understand want I am going though. Does anyone have any answers? I guess it"s been harder because both of my brothers have pass away. and I only have my husband,kids and my mother. People think you can just jump up and be happy. But it doesn"t work that way for me. help.

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Dear Jm,     I too am a mother of 4 boys and I started having anxiety in august while driving my kids to our local rec. center.  Since then i went to my family doctor for a number of test because i thought i was having a heart problem.  we could never find anything and her dignoses was panic/anxiety.  she gave me pills that made me hyper and i thought i was going to loose my mind.  so my husband found a pysc. to help me he put me on xanax and imipramine to help control this.  i still have these rapid heart beats and wake in the middle of the night and still cant accept that it is anxiety.  but i am trying.  My pill are lessening the symptoms and making the attacks much less, but it was 3:00am when i woke with this heart racing.  maybe you just need an other type of med to help you.  I hate to have to rely on meds, but i couldnt leave my house and still cant drive very far.  crazy I know.  I hope you know you are not a lone there are a lot of us out there.  Even if this didnt help which i hope it did .

Response:

Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The feedback here is that it works for some people, doesn’t work for a lot of others. As I understand it, Meridia is not at all chemically similar to phen/fen and does not work on the system in a similar manner — the only similarity is that it is prescribed for the same condition, obesity. As for so-called "dangerous side effects," that should be "the suspicion that there might be dangerous side effects," not so far proven in any of the studies, but still generating enormous lawsuits. What there are already lawsuits going after Meridia, too? Tell me you’re kidding, please…

When the ambulance chasers salivating with greed invaded this newsgroup right after the recall, they were looking for people to join class actions for either of the two drugs. Inasmuch as I know someone who joined such a suit "just in case" — even though she had experienced no harm from the phen/fen — I can only assume that they got some Redux users, as well. I don’t know that any suits have been filed, but I know they were trying to get them started. — Truly Donovan reply to truly at lunemere dot com

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The feedback here is that it works for some people, doesn’t work for a lot of others. As I understand it, Meridia is not at all chemically similar to phen/fen and does not work on the system in a similar manner — the only similarity is that it is prescribed for the same condition, obesity. As for so-called "dangerous side effects," that should be "the suspicion that there might be dangerous side effects," not so far proven in any of the studies, but still generating enormous lawsuits. What there are already lawsuits going after Meridia, too? Tell me you’re kidding, please… When the ambulance chasers salivating with greed invaded this newsgroup right after the recall, they were looking for people to join class actions for either of the two drugs. Inasmuch as I know someone who joined such a suit "just in case" — even though she had experienced no harm from the phen/fen — I can only assume that they got some Redux users, as well. I don’t know that any suits have been filed, but I know they were trying to get them started.

Oh, so when you were talking about "dangerous side effects" and "enormous lawsuits" above you were talking about fen/Redux, and not Meridia, right? That wasn’t clear to me. As far as I know, the statute of limitations for filing class action suits on behalf of fen/phen "victims" has expired and I know of none that have been filed on time. As to invididual suits, none of them came out in favor of the so-called "victim". To email me, remove the X

Response:

My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.  It is similar to Phen-Fen but without the dangerous side effects.  It works at stabilizing metabolism and reducing hunger.  His current users lose an average of 4 to 10 lbs. per month depending on if they exercise and diet in addtion to the pills.

I was on it for 6 weeks.  Didn’t work worth a damn–in fact, I think I gained a few pounds. My doctor switched me to phentermine, and I’ve been losing approx 10 pounds/month–35 now since May 1. — Steve Dyer

Response:

My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.

My doctor put me on Meridia 4 weeks ago and so far so good!  I’ve lost 15 pounds and found that I feel full without a lot of cravings.  I’m also on  1000 calorie diet and trying to exercise on my treadmill 3-4 times a week.   I’ve been on 10mg but I’ve been feeling hungry and cravings the last few days so they’ve upped my prescription to 15mg which I’ll fill tomorrow. My major side effect was dry mouth, which has abated somewhat.  I had a killer headache on the second day but none since.  My blood pressure and heart rate are monitored regularly and haven’t shown any change, but I have always had low blood pressure so I wasn’t too worried about that possibility.  I was never on Fen/Phen so I can’t compare Meridia to it.  It is definitely nice to feel full without overeating for a change!! Kim 245/230/135 ComputerSmiths Consulting, Inc.                www.compusmiths.com   — Crafting Solutions for Computers

Response:

If you give Meridia a try, I recommend having a complete physical before starting and then monitoring your blood pressure and heart rate carefully – perhaps even daily at first! While individual responses vary, mine was not so good. It suppressed my appetite to almost zero (positive!) but heart rate and blood pressure went up a lot. I felt great for the first two days. Then on day three of taking the medication I became so nauseous and light-headed I almost passed out at work and required medical attention. I was taking the recommended starting dose of 10 mg/day. It took three days for my heart rate to return to normal. The effect on my appetite was so dramatic that I am considering trying again at 5 mg dosage or taking 10 mg only every other day or two. — Katie– I never believe anything until it’s been officially denied. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.  It is similar to Phen-Fen but without the dangerous side effects.  It works at stabilizing metabolism and reducing hunger.  His current users lose an average of 4 to 10 lbs. per month depending on if they exercise and diet in addtion to the pills.

Response:

My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.  It is similar to Phen-Fen but without the dangerous side effects.  It works at stabilizing metabolism and reducing hunger.  His current users lose an average of 4 to 10 lbs. per month depending on if they exercise and diet in addtion to the pills.

The feedback here is that it works for some people, doesn’t work for a lot of others. As I understand it, Meridia is not at all chemically similar to phen/fen and does not work on the system in a similar manner — the only similarity is that it is prescribed for the same condition, obesity. As for so-called "dangerous side effects," that should be "the suspicion that there might be dangerous side effects," not so far proven in any of the studies, but still generating enormous lawsuits. — Truly Donovan reply to truly at lunemere dot com

Response:

The feedback here is that it works for some people, doesn’t work for a lot of others. As I understand it, Meridia is not at all chemically similar to phen/fen and does not work on the system in a similar manner — the only similarity is that it is prescribed for the same condition, obesity. As for so-called "dangerous side effects," that should be "the suspicion that there might be dangerous side effects," not so far proven in any of the studies, but still generating enormous lawsuits.

What there are already lawsuits going after Meridia, too? Tell me you’re kidding, please…

Response:

My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.  It is similar to Phen-Fen but without the dangerous side effects.  It works at stabilizing metabolism and reducing hunger.  His current users lose an average of 4 to 10 lbs. per month depending on if they exercise and diet in addtion to the pills.

I just went off Meridia after two non-effective months.  I had killer PMS while on it too– carbo/salt cravings you wouldn’t believe. My dr attributes this to the weight I already lost– says that my hormones are just working much better now. Well gee thanks hormones. I’ve gained back 7 since they took away the Fen…. and somedays I feel like I’m tottering on the edge of gaining it all back – M.

Response:

My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.  It is similar to Phen-Fen but without the dangerous side effects.  It works at stabilizing metabolism and reducing hunger.  His current users lose an average of 4 to 10 lbs. per month depending on if they exercise and diet in addtion to the pills.

Response:

  As I understand it, Meridia is not at all chemically similar to   phen/fen and does not work on the system in a similar manner Meridia (sibutramine) is a chemically a phenethylamine, just like Dexedrine, phentermine, fenfluramine, and Redux.  Pharmacologically, it does not work the same way as those drugs; it’s mechanism is almost identical to that of the antidepressant drug Effexor (venlafaxine).  Effexor is useless for weight loss (except as an unwanted side effect in a small number of people) and so is Meridia.

Response:

  My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.  It is similar to   Phen-Fen but without the dangerous side effects. There’s one other difference between Meridia and phen/fen: phen/fen worked, and Meridia doesn’t. Meridia wins on one count, however: it’s more expensive than phen/fen was. I predict that Meridia will be gone within a year, not because of some terrible side effect that’s discovered, but because it simply won’t sell. It doesn’t work any better than placebo.

Response:

Meridia (sibutramine) is a chemically a phenethylamine, just like Dexedrine, phentermine, fenfluramine, and Redux.  Pharmacologically, it does not work the same way as those drugs; it’s mechanism is almost identical to that of the antidepressant drug Effexor (venlafaxine).  Effexor is useless for weight loss (except as an unwanted side effect in a small number of people) and so is Meridia.

Although I experienced a minor decrease in appetite while taking prozac, from what I understand more people gain weight on it than actually lose weight.  Do you know whether Effexor has the same reputation for causing weight gain?  If not, perhaps it would be worth a try to see if I’m one of that small number who loses. AB

Response:

I’ve never heard of weight gain with Effexor.  A certain percentage of people experience weight loss with it, but the weight loss isn’t very significant.  I’ve been wondering lately whether Effexor combined with phentermine might be useful.  You could end up with overstimulation, at least theoretically, but it seems like they would potentiate one another. A few years ago, Lilly was going to try to get Prozac indicated for obesity. It does seem to suppress appetite in some people, but the effect is inconsistent, and even when it works, it’s not very dramatic. The world is still waiting for a really effective pharmacotherapy for obesity.  Phen/fen really seemed to have been it for a certain number of people, but I wasn’t one of them. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Meridia (sibutramine) is a chemically a phenethylamine, just like Dexedrine, phentermine, fenfluramine, and Redux.  Pharmacologically, it does not work the same way as those drugs; it’s mechanism is almost identical to that of the antidepressant drug Effexor (venlafaxine).  Effexor is useless for weight loss (except as an unwanted side effect in a small number of people) and so is Meridia. Although I experienced a minor decrease in appetite while taking prozac, from what I understand more people gain weight on it than actually lose weight.  Do you know whether Effexor has the same reputation for causing weight gain?  If not, perhaps it would be worth a try to see if I’m one of that small number who loses. AB

Response:

:   I’ve just begun doing web searches for info on Effexor.  Having found :   anything addressing the combination of the Effexor and Phen yet.  Anyone :   have any info/ideas? : I haven’t found anything anywhere specifically addressing the combination. : A good place to look for information on stuff like this is MedLine, which : you can get to at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed/ Okay, thanks. : The chemical name of Effexor is venlafaxine (MedLine refers to drugs by : their chemical names). : I’ve been searching for information on the combination of venlafaxine and : phentermine lately.  If I find anything, I’ll be sure to post it. : One possible concern about this combo would definitely be blood pressure. : Effexor, like Meridia (they’re very similar drugs) can cause a sustained : increase in blood pressure.  Phentermine can increase blood pressure too, : and should be used with caution where there’s already high blood pressure. : Of course, obesity has its own health risks, and on the balance, the risks : of the drug-induced hypertension may be offset by the benefits of weight : loss.  At least, this was the argument that Knoll (makers of Meridia) made : to get their product on the market. Yes, I’m a little worried about this doctor’s attention to health-related side effects – I realized after I left his office that he hadn’t even taken my blood pressure!  I’ve been having my blood pressure read every month or so throughout all med changes (phen/fen, phen/pro, etc.), and it’s always been around 110/70, so I’m not terribly worried, but obviously I’m going to have to be the one staying on top of what side effects to be worried about. It’s hard finding a doc who is informed about the brain/body aspects of obesity, knows the meds, the possible side effects, is open-minded (doesn’t prescribe diet/exercise exclusively), knows how to listen, and is a good overall doctor…  I just recently got med insurance after doing without (stupid, I know; I kept _meaning_ to get an individual plan, but the cost was offputting) for almost 2 years.  So I’m shopping. Julie

Response:

My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.  It is similar to Phen-Fen but without the dangerous side effects. There’s one other difference between Meridia and phen/fen: phen/fen worked, and Meridia doesn’t. Meridia wins on one count, however: it’s more expensive than phen/fen was. I predict that Meridia will be gone within a year, not because of some terrible side effect that’s discovered, but because it simply won’t sell. It doesn’t work any better than placebo.

Placebos work for some people; so does Meridia. If it has to be expensive to have that effect, so be it. — Truly Donovan reply to truly at lunemere dot com

Response:

  I’ve just begun doing web searches for info on Effexor.  Having found   anything addressing the combination of the Effexor and Phen yet.  Anyone   have any info/ideas? I haven’t found anything anywhere specifically addressing the combination. A good place to look for information on stuff like this is MedLine, which you can get to at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed/ The chemical name of Effexor is venlafaxine (MedLine refers to drugs by their chemical names). I’ve been searching for information on the combination of venlafaxine and phentermine lately.  If I find anything, I’ll be sure to post it. One possible concern about this combo would definitely be blood pressure. Effexor, like Meridia (they’re very similar drugs) can cause a sustained increase in blood pressure.  Phentermine can increase blood pressure too, and should be used with caution where there’s already high blood pressure. Of course, obesity has its own health risks, and on the balance, the risks of the drug-induced hypertension may be offset by the benefits of weight loss.  At least, this was the argument that Knoll (makers of Meridia) made to get their product on the market.

Response:

: I’ve never heard of weight gain with Effexor.  A certain percentage of : people experience weight loss with it, but the weight loss isn’t very : significant.  I’ve been wondering lately whether Effexor combined with : phentermine might be useful.  You could end up with overstimulation, at : least theoretically, but it seems like they would potentiate one another. Funny you should mention this.  Just yesterday I saw a new doctor, who seems to be developing a subspecialty in treating weight.  I told him my history – success with phen/fen, no success with Meridia or phen/pro or phen/wellbutrin, maintaining with difficulty on phen and 5-HTP.  He said that the only combo he’s been having success with has been phentermine and Effexor, so I’m starting that today.  Currently 30 mgs phentermine, 37.5 Effexor.   I’ve just begun doing web searches for info on Effexor.  Having found anything addressing the combination of the Effexor and Phen yet.  Anyone have any info/ideas? Julie

Response:

I have been getting killer headaches when I take 15 mg, but not when I take 10 mg.  It’s happening consistantly enough that I think it’s related to the dosage.  Otherwise, I’ve been really happy with it. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia. My doctor put me on Meridia 4 weeks ago and so far so good!  I’ve lost 15 pounds and found that I feel full without a lot of cravings.  I’m also on  1000 calorie diet and trying to exercise on my treadmill 3-4 times a week.   I’ve been on 10mg but I’ve been feeling hungry and cravings the last few days so they’ve upped my prescription to 15mg which I’ll fill tomorrow. My major side effect was dry mouth, which has abated somewhat.  I had a killer headache on the second day but none since.  My blood pressure and heart rate are monitored regularly and haven’t shown any change, but I have always had low blood pressure so I wasn’t too worried about that possibility.  I was never on Fen/Phen so I can’t compare Meridia to it.  It is definitely nice to feel full without overeating for a change!! Kim 245/230/135 ComputerSmiths Consulting, Inc.                www.compusmiths.com   — Crafting Solutions for Computers

Response:

Do you know whether Effexor has the same reputation for causing weight gain?  If not, perhaps it would be worth a try to see if I’m one of that small number who loses. AB

I gained weiht on both drugs, not as much on Prozac, but quite a bit on Effexor, say 20 pounds over a 6 month period. JaneG

Response:

My doctor has suggested I try the prescription Meridia.  It is similar to Phen-Fen but without the dangerous side effects.  It works at stabilizing metabolism and reducing hunger.  His current users lose an average of 4 to 10 lbs. per month depending on if they exercise and diet in addtion to the pills.

If they exercise and diet WITHOUT the pills they’ll lose 4 lbs a month.  It doesn’t sound like it’s worth it.

Response:

Question:

I started trying to get pregnant.  This is my first cycle without the Zoloft and I am due for AF any day now and I am soooooooo cranky and most of all sooooooooo sad all the time.  Does anyone have any suggestions on how to deal with this?  Today is so bad that I had to take my 2 yr old daughter over to my mom’s house because she doesn’t understand why I cry so much and it makes her so sad to see my crying.  I feel like a total failure because I can’t even take care of the daughter I do have when I am like this.         Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. KD Pearce remove the 4 before replying

Response:

Hi- It sounds as though maybe you are having zoloft withdrawal.  Do you know a lot about this med?  Did your doctor explain to you that zoloft is a strong anti depressant?  Maybe you could benefit by taking something milder.  Good luck to you.

Response:

as soon as I started trying (seriouly) to get pregnant 1.5 years ago my dr. took me off all meds. even the one for pms and it has been a huge ajustment and my poor husband and 4 year old are always the butt end of all my anger and sadness! My only suggestion is to ask your husband to help more. And ask your Re if you can take an over the counter drug for pms. they told me I could , but so far I have’nt. good luckMissy

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WebfootVA schreef: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – BTW, though you said you take it at night.  Do you eat dinner late or do you take it with a snack?  If I started to eat my dinner at 9pm I would not only have bad indigestion, I’d probably weigh about 10 pounds more than I do now! Hi Iris, I do both.  I used to eat late dinners when I worked until 9pm so I could eat with my husband in the past.  For me, this was never a big deal.  I either eat a very light dinner at 5pm with my kids and a big snack later on, or I just have a late dinner, but I always eat before the meds. I also work out 5-6 times a week in the mornings at the gym as I’ve tended to gain weight with any of the meds in the past and I didn’t want to go that route again.  It also helps a lot with the everyday stress and gives me exposure to the rapid heart rate….rapid breathing symptoms, which I’m hoping will eventually help me prevent relapse once this goes into remission again. take care, Lene Well, I’ll probably have to take it in the morning then, or at least with my dinner around 7pm.  If I eat much later, I feel queasy when I go to bed. I need to start working out again.  I don’t have a weight problem but I am noticing a growing flab problem!  Exercise was my salvation when I had PA’s 10 years ago, but now I’ve developed a bit of a phobia–also, I suspect tied to the rapid heart rate, sweating, etc. BTW, the doc wants me to start out on 25 mg for a week then increase to 50mg where I’ll stay if the drug is successful.  Is 25 mg a low enough dose to start? Should I ask him for a lower dose?  I only weigh about 112, although I have a friend who doesn’t even tip the scales at 100 lbs and she started at 50 mg with no problem. Ever more questions. Iris —

  Iris, I feel your doctor knows about your fear of meds (which I recognize completely) and therefore starts your medication on a very low dose indeed. You should have no problems taking this at any time of the day. And: the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Try it and do it asap because you’ve been torturing yourself for too long now. Just do it! You’ll survive. Just as I did, so many times now (and still fraking out over every new med but having learnt to take it. If I can do it, you certainly can! I wish you knew me better to discover how true this is… Philip Peters

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – WebfootVA schreef: BTW, though you said you take it at night.  Do you eat dinner late or do you take it with a snack?  If I started to eat my dinner at 9pm I would not only have bad indigestion, I’d probably weigh about 10 pounds more than I do now! Hi Iris, I do both.  I used to eat late dinners when I worked until 9pm so I could eat with my husband in the past.  For me, this was never a big deal.  I either eat a very light dinner at 5pm with my kids and a big snack later on, or I just have a late dinner, but I always eat before the meds. I also work out 5-6 times a week in the mornings at the gym as I’ve tended to gain weight with any of the meds in the past and I didn’t want to go that route again.  It also helps a lot with the everyday stress and gives me exposure to the rapid heart rate….rapid breathing symptoms, which I’m hoping will eventually help me prevent relapse once this goes into remission again. take care, Lene Well, I’ll probably have to take it in the morning then, or at least with my dinner around 7pm.  If I eat much later, I feel queasy when I go to bed. I need to start working out again.  I don’t have a weight problem but I am noticing a growing flab problem!  Exercise was my salvation when I had PA’s 10 years ago, but now I’ve developed a bit of a phobia–also, I suspect tied to the rapid heart rate, sweating, etc. BTW, the doc wants me to start out on 25 mg for a week then increase to 50mg where I’ll stay if the drug is successful.  Is 25 mg a low enough dose to start? Should I ask him for a lower dose?  I only weigh about 112, although I have a friend who doesn’t even tip the scales at 100 lbs and she started at 50 mg with no problem. Ever more questions. Iris —   Iris, I feel your doctor knows about your fear of meds (which I recognize completely) and therefore starts your medication on a very low dose indeed. You should have no problems taking this at any time of the day. And: the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Try it and do it asap because you’ve been torturing yourself for too long now. Just do it! You’ll survive. Just as I did, so many times now (and still fraking out over every new med but having learnt to take it. If I can do it, you certainly can! I wish you knew me better to discover how true this is… Philip Peters

Philip: What a nice reply!  I’m going to print it out and tape it to the mirror, ’cause I’ve decided I’m going to start tonight! Iris (hoping to be successful…) —

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – BTW, though you said you take it at night.  Do you eat dinner late or do you take it with a snack?  If I started to eat my dinner at 9pm I would not only have bad indigestion, I’d probably weigh about 10 pounds more than I do now! Hi Iris, I do both.  I used to eat late dinners when I worked until 9pm so I could eat with my husband in the past.  For me, this was never a big deal.  I either eat a very light dinner at 5pm with my kids and a big snack later on, or I just have a late dinner, but I always eat before the meds. I also work out 5-6 times a week in the mornings at the gym as I’ve tended to gain weight with any of the meds in the past and I didn’t want to go that route again.  It also helps a lot with the everyday stress and gives me exposure to the rapid heart rate….rapid breathing symptoms, which I’m hoping will eventually help me prevent relapse once this goes into remission again. take care, Lene

Well, I’ll probably have to take it in the morning then, or at least with my dinner around 7pm.  If I eat much later, I feel queasy when I go to bed. I need to start working out again.  I don’t have a weight problem but I am noticing a growing flab problem!  Exercise was my salvation when I had PA’s 10 years ago, but now I’ve developed a bit of a phobia–also, I suspect tied to the rapid heart rate, sweating, etc. BTW, the doc wants me to start out on 25 mg for a week then increase to 50mg where I’ll stay if the drug is successful.  Is 25 mg a low enough dose to start? Should I ask him for a lower dose?  I only weigh about 112, although I have a friend who doesn’t even tip the scales at 100 lbs and she started at 50 mg with no problem. Ever more questions. Iris —

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BTW, though you said you take it at night.  Do you eat dinner late or do you take it with a snack?  If I started to eat my dinner at 9pm I would not only have bad indigestion, I’d probably weigh about 10 pounds more than I do now! Hi Iris,

I do both.  I used to eat late dinners when I worked until 9pm so I could eat with my husband in the past.  For me, this was never a big deal.  I either eat a very light dinner at 5pm with my kids and a big snack later on, or I just have a late dinner, but I always eat before the meds. I also work out 5-6 times a week in the mornings at the gym as I’ve tended to gain weight with any of the meds in the past and I didn’t want to go that route again.  It also helps a lot with the everyday stress and gives me exposure to the rapid heart rate….rapid breathing symptoms, which I’m hoping will eventually help me prevent relapse once this goes into remission again. take care, Lene – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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Okay, after taking Zoloft for the first time last night, I felt so wired up today. How long are the side effects going to take? Why do some people have more side effects at first than others? PS make sure you eat with it.  I noticed a BIG difference in severity of side effects depending on whether I had a full stomache or not.

Good advice Lene.  I’m still working on starting my Zoloft (sigh…) and the reason I was leaning toward taking it at breakfast was to lessen the side effect possibility.  I’ve had this reaction with several other drugs. If I take them with food (if it’s an option), I always tolerate them better.  I’m not a scientist, but I think food slows the absorbtion rate, so your body can better adjust. BTW, though you said you take it at night.  Do you eat dinner late or do you take it with a snack?  If I started to eat my dinner at 9pm I would not only have bad indigestion, I’d probably weigh about 10 pounds more than I do now! Iris —

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Okay, after taking Zoloft for the first time last night, I felt so wired up today. How long are the side effects going to take?

<snipped for space I’m not a doctor but I do believe that, while there is a possibility that you are experiencing a reaction to Zoloft, it’s an infinitessimal one. Most likely you have hyped yourself up over it with anticipation. ISTM a little too early for any reaction at all, good or bad… Sad to say, we anxiety types do this all too easily — Gary Cooper

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Okay, after taking Zoloft for the first time last night, I felt so wired up today. How long are the side effects going to take? Why do some people have more side effects at first than others?

Side effects with zoloft at first are extremely common.  I’ve been on it for 10 weeks, My side effects lasted about four weeks.  However, my husband who is also on zoloft for chronic pain management had few side effects and none of the ones that I did.    I found that I had to work a bit with the time I took it, to manage the side effects better at first. Some people are just more sensitive to meds.  Myself included.  I usually have side effects to everything.  Try and keep in mind that that the side effects are a temporary situation and well worth getting through in order to give it a chance and see if this is the answer for you. PS make sure you eat with it.  I noticed a BIG difference in severity of side effects depending on whether I had a full stomache or not. take care Lene – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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Okay, after taking Zoloft for the first time last night, I felt so wired up today. How long are the side effects going to take? Why do some people have more side effects at first than others? Is it kind of a Riddlin effect.  Kids who take it and don’t need it tend to react to it differently and get hyped up.  and whereas kids who need the medication the most feel the effect immediately.    mmm.  in that case  is it true that if you’re feeling overanxious when initially using Zoloft   that you’re closer to healthy than you are sick?    just a hopeful thought

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Newsgroups: alt.support.anxiety-panic X-Newsreader: NEWTNews & Chameleon — TCP/IP for MS Windows from NetManage MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII I have suffered from a condition which makes my hands tremble. When ever I am with someone and I have to sign or pick somethig delicate or valuable up If I think they are looking at me I will start trembling. It also occurs when in a shop and I pick up some china etc and my hands start shaking because someone Mally has suggested you have a tremor problem in addition to your anxiety. If this is the case than medication to control the tremor might be helpful. If however the tremor only occurs in social situations the liklyhood is that it is anxiety related. If this is the case the treatment of you phobia via cognative behavioral therapy would be an option. Jim Claiborn Ph.D.

Just to keep the record straight I didn’t suggest that the poster had a tremor problem – I said they *may* have one and also stated that it was entirely possible that it was an anxiety/PD problem as other’s have experienced this. Last thing I want to do is tell people what they’ve got or what treatment they should use!  Er……guess I don’t mind saying what "treatments" I think *nobody* should use!  <g Mally  :)

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(dennis goos) writes: Just to keep the record straight I didn’t suggest that the poster had a tremor problem – I said they *may* have one and also stated that it was entirely possible that it was an anxiety/PD problem as other’s have experienced this. Last thing I want to do is tell people what they’ve got or what treatment they should use!  Er……guess I don’t mind saying what "treatments" I think *nobody* should use!  <g Mally  :)

I was just going to write a response to that about how you said *may* have a tremor problem when I decided to read on and found your response.  You and Dr. Clairborn sure have different opinions….which of course is great, its good to hear both sides….but have you two *agreed to disagree*? <g Cyndie

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(dennis goos) writes: As you and I well know Cyndie, a movement disorder of any kind should be thoroughly investigated by a movement disorder specialist.  I find it quite amazing and shocking that CT therapy is being used to treat movement disorders.  I think it is indefensible that Jim would suggest CT as a treatment – much as I realize that he’s convinced that it cures everything from warts to premature baldness!  <g

Yeah, I could just imagine me taking Jeremy to therepy for dystonia! <g Cyndie

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Newsgroups: alt.support.anxiety-panic X-Newsreader: NEWTNews & Chameleon — TCP/IP for MS Windows from NetManage MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII I have suffered from a condition which makes my hands tremble. When ever I am with someone and I have to sign or pick somethig delicate or valuable up If I think they are looking at me I will start trembling. It also occurs when in a shop and I pick up some china etc and my hands start shaking because someone could be watching me and I may drop it. These symptoms seem to go around in never larger circles as the more I think about it the more I shake. This has been with me since I was 15 and now I am 28. In everyday life I try to avoid signing in public and so I avoid paying on credit card as I might shake as I know people are looking for your signature. Talking to the cashier helps but not enough. If anyone else suffers from a similar condition please let me know also as i am from england does anybody know of any books or anyone that can help me with this condition. Am I alone? Mark

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Newsgroups: alt.support.anxiety-panic X-Newsreader: NEWTNews & Chameleon — TCP/IP for MS Windows from NetManage MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII I have suffered from a condition which makes my hands tremble. When ever I am with someone and I have to sign or pick somethig delicate or valuable up If I think they are looking at me I will start trembling. It also occurs when in a shop and I pick up some china etc and my hands start shaking because someone could be watching me and I may drop it. These symptoms seem to go around in never larger circles as the more I think about it the more I shake. This has been with me since I was 15 and now I am 28. In everyday life I try to avoid signing in public and so I avoid paying on credit card as I might shake as I know people are looking for your signature. Talking to the cashier helps but not enough. If anyone else suffers from a similar condition please let me know also as i am from england does anybody know of any books or anyone that can help me with this condition. Am I alone? Mark

Hi Mark: I have Essential Tremor as well as PD.  This makes my hands shake a lot – stress can make it worse, as does carrying anything heavy, etc.  When I’m nervous, stressed or have been doing something physical I can shake/tremble all over.  I like to think of myself as a mover and a shaker!  :)   Has your doctor checked Essential Tremor out for you?  A neurologist would be able to tell you whether there is any indication of this. There have been others on this group who have posted with similar problems also, so it is possible that it is a PD symptom. Feel free to email me if you have more questions. Mally  

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Newsgroups: alt.support.anxiety-panic X-Newsreader: NEWTNews & Chameleon — TCP/IP for MS Windows from NetManage MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII I have suffered from a condition which makes my hands tremble. When ever I am with someone and I have to sign or pick somethig delicate or valuable up If I think they are looking at me I will start trembling. It also occurs when in a shop and I pick up some china etc and my hands start shaking because someone could be watching me and I may drop it.

<snip that can help me with this condition. Am I alone? Mark

Hi Mark, I’ve experienced the same problem. I used to work in a restaurant, and I would shake or worry about shaking when I was carrying things to a table. Also, I have difficulty signing in public – my signature looks worse than usual because I shake. A method I use to alleviate this is replace the "what if" (as in what if I shake) with "so what". This sometimes helps with other "what if" situations. Hope this helps. Or at least maybe it’ll help to know that you’re not the only one who has experienced this. Peace, Don Ganton

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