Question:

Does Flovent cause mouth thrush or yeast infections? I am just starting using it. Is there any way to avoid it past washing your mouth out? Should I gargle lysterine or something to slear all the meds out?

Response:

Someone recommended eating 1/2 cup yogurt daily.  I also rinse with perioxide which seems to help.  niasha – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does Flovent cause mouth thrush or yeast infections? I am just starting using it. Is there any way to avoid it past washing your mouth out? Should I gargle lysterine or something to slear all the meds out?

Response:

I just brush my teeth and rinse really well after I take my meds, including flovent.  I haven’t had any problems yet.

Response:

Hi James, Does Flovent cause mouth thrush or yeast infections? I am just starting using it. Is there any way to avoid it past washing your mouth out? Should I gargle lysterine or something to slear all the meds out?

The best thing you can do to avoid thrush from steroid inhalers is to  use a spacer device like the Aerochamber.  It breaks the medication down a bit and stops the medication from hitting the back of your mouth. You might notice that when you use a steroid inhaler, you get a nasty taste in your mouth – this usually means that most of the medication has hit the back of your mouth and that you did not inhale deeply enough to get it into your lungs. I would strongly recommend: Getting a spacer Asking your doctor, pharmacist or a Respiratory Therapist to demonstrate the correct use of a spacer Rinsing your mouth out everytime you use the medication (even with the spacer). You do not really need listerine….just rinsing with water has always done the trick for me.  Of course, after you have thrush, you probably do need to use Listerine or Scope.

Response:

People get thrush when they don’t rinse because the medicine is intended for the lungs not the mouth.  In the mouth it breaks down the immune system and throws off the natural balance allowing an opportunity for the yeast (which is normal to be there) to take over and become over abundant. If you rinse with listerine you further break down the natural defenses and allow the yeast an even greater opportunity. Joann RT – Ft. Lauderdale, FL

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi James, Does Flovent cause mouth thrush or yeast infections? I am just starting using it. Is there any way to avoid it past washing your mouth out? Should I gargle lysterine or something to slear all the meds out? The best thing you can do to avoid thrush from steroid inhalers is to  use a spacer device like the Aerochamber.  It breaks the medication down a bit and stops the medication from hitting the back of your mouth. You might notice that when you use a steroid inhaler, you get a nasty taste in your mouth – this usually means that most of the medication has hit the back of your mouth and that you did not inhale deeply enough to get it into your lungs. I would strongly recommend: Getting a spacer Asking your doctor, pharmacist or a Respiratory Therapist to demonstrate the correct use of a spacer Rinsing your mouth out everytime you use the medication (even with the spacer). You do not really need listerine….just rinsing with water has always done the trick for me.  Of course, after you have thrush, you probably do need to use Listerine or Scope.

Response:

Question:

This ties in very nicely with Buteyko’s chronic hyperventilation theory on asthma.   It follows quite logically from the initial premise that asthmatics just breathe too much,  that all the body’s biochemical processes, including the production of Cortisol, are impaired by the low levels of Carbon Dioxide resulting from chronic over-breathing.

Which makes no damned sense since it has been shown that asthmatics actually have *high* levels of Carbon Dioxide during an attack.   Loki

Response:

Does anyone have any information on Flovent and adrenal suppression? I’m hoping that’s not it, but it’s possible my adrenals are a bit suppressed.  It’s more likely the prednisone I was on but I’m just curious about Flovent.   Thanks, Loki

Response:

Does anyone have any information on Flovent and adrenal suppression? I’m hoping that’s not it, but it’s possible my adrenals are a bit suppressed.  It’s more likely the prednisone I was on but I’m just curious about Flovent. Thanks, Loki

Adrenal suppression is most likely from long term usage of oral steroids. Could also start to have an effect at very high doses of inhaled steroids, like Flovent, more likely with Flovent 220 than the lower strength versions. The body needs the equivalent of about 5 mg of prednisone/day; if it can’t produce it, it needs to be supplied orally. The typical inhaled steroid dose is 30 times lower than typical oral steroids, which is why inhaled steroids are the treatment of choice. (Inhaled steroids go directly to lungs, thus don’t affect the whole body). After a burst dose of prednisone of a few days, it takes a while for the body to get back to normal. Somtimes special techniques are used to wean off the oral steroids, such as tapering the dose and alternate day dosing. Ellis

Response:

It’s just interesting to note that my doctor told me that the Flovent puffs 2x a day is =to 5 mg f prednisone Smile…and have a nice day!!

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have any information on Flovent and adrenal suppression? I’m hoping that’s not it, but it’s possible my adrenals are a bit suppressed.  It’s more likely the prednisone I was on but I’m just curious about Flovent. Thanks, Loki Adrenal suppression is most likely from long term usage of oral steroids. Could also start to have an effect at very high doses of inhaled steroids, like Flovent, more likely with Flovent 220 than the lower strength versions. The body needs the equivalent of about 5 mg of prednisone/day; if it can’t produce it, it needs to be supplied orally. The typical inhaled steroid dose is 30 times lower than typical oral steroids, which is why inhaled steroids are the treatment of choice. (Inhaled steroids go directly to lungs, thus don’t affect the whole body).

True to a point. But even when properly used, there is some aspiration of inhaled seroids. Thus there is sytemic delivery and suppression of adrenal steroids. Moreover,there can be absorption through the airway into the bloodstream.  So while inhaled steroids are safer than pills, they are not free of adverse effects. After a burst dose of prednisone of a few days, it takes a while for the body to get back to normal. Somtimes special techniques are used to wean off the oral steroids, such as tapering the dose and alternate day dosing.

A while can be a LONG while – months to the better part of a year.

Response:

Loki, how are you doing? Has the disorientation passed? If not, I have info that may help you — contact me. Just wanted to add the comment here that my endocrinologist thinks that ALL people with allergies have weak adrenal function. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Does anyone have any information on Flovent and adrenal suppression? I’m hoping that’s not it, but it’s possible my adrenals are a bit suppressed.  It’s more likely the prednisone I was on but I’m just curious about Flovent.   Thanks, Loki

Response:

Please allow me to add my 2 cents here and say that, IMHO, the notion that topical steroids "do not affect the whole body" is the biggest con job ever pulled over on patients. Ask anyone who has suffered systemic side effects from these "minute" dosages! On the plus side, since I have started Vancenase, my skin has never been so soft. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have any information on Flovent and adrenal suppression? I’m hoping that’s not it, but it’s possible my adrenals are a bit suppressed.  It’s more likely the prednisone I was on but I’m just curious about Flovent. Thanks, Loki Adrenal suppression is most likely from long term usage of oral steroids. Could also start to have an effect at very high doses of inhaled steroids, like Flovent, more likely with Flovent 220 than the lower strength versions. The body needs the equivalent of about 5 mg of prednisone/day; if it can’t produce it, it needs to be supplied orally. The typical inhaled steroid dose is 30 times lower than typical oral steroids, which is why inhaled steroids are the treatment of choice. (Inhaled steroids go directly to lungs, thus don’t affect the whole body). After a burst dose of prednisone of a few days, it takes a while for the body to get back to normal. Somtimes special techniques are used to wean off the oral steroids, such as tapering the dose and alternate day dosing. Ellis

Response:

Just wanted to add the comment here that my endocrinologist thinks that ALL people with allergies have weak adrenal function.

That is also my understanding. Maybe your doctor knows the work of John Tintera. I have been told  that most endocrinologists today don’t  have the knowledge of this that they once had.

Response:

Does anyone have any information on Flovent and adrenal suppression? I’m hoping that’s not it, but it’s possible my adrenals are a bit suppressed.  It’s more likely the prednisone I was on but I’m just curious about Flovent.  

It’s also possible it’s an "interaction" between the two…the Flovent making preg. side effects worse and vice-versa.  Getting tested might be a good idea, esp. if you can get insurance to pay for it. Scott T.

Response:

Just wanted to add the comment here that my endocrinologist thinks that ALL people with allergies have weak adrenal function. That is also my understanding. Maybe your doctor knows the work of John Tintera. I have been told  that most endocrinologists today don’t  have the knowledge of this that they once had.

This ties in very nicely with Buteyko’s chronic hyperventilation theory on asthma.   It follows quite logically from the initial premise that asthmatics just breathe too much,  that all the body’s biochemical processes, including the production of Cortisol, are impaired by the low levels of Carbon Dioxide resulting from chronic over-breathing. For details see Kazarinov’s paper:        http://www.wt.com.au/~pkolb/biochem.htm Peter  Kolb FREE INFORMATION ON BUTEYKO’S CURE FOR ASTHMA PROVIDED BY GRATEFUL EX-ASTHMATICS:   http://www.wt.com.au/~pkolb/buteyko.htm

Response:

Question:

I don’t know if it is because of Advair or not, but my father went into V-Fib 1 month after taking advair. He was very happy with the way he felt being on Advair, but never mentioned anything about the warnings. I just noticed that the warnings say that Advair can change heart rhythm.  That is exactly what happened to my father.  He never had heart problems before, in fact, his Dr has commented before that he has a very strong heart. I’m not sure where to go with this.  I just want to make sure that everyone takes these warnings seriously. Please be careful.  Having this happen to my father has been very difficult. Dave

Response:

It may have been a cumulative effect was he taking something else before Advair. Many asthma sufferers take a form of steroids and albuterol and heart problems are frequent. My best wishes to you and your family and thanks for a difficult reminder. Lane

Response:

Your comments can be true.  However, since being on Advair, he hasn’t used his inhaler, and he hasn’t taken prednisone for quite some time. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It may have been a cumulative effect was he taking something else before Advair. Many asthma sufferers take a form of steroids and albuterol and heart problems are frequent. My best wishes to you and your family and thanks for a difficult reminder. Lane

Response:

It is always difficult to know if a drug side effect is responsible or not. The PDR lists the same 101 side effects for every drug. While I was takng "anyoldmycin" my stocks plunged, my car wouldn’t start and I cut myself shaving. Was all this caused by "anyoldmycin"? Unfortunately it takes a very long time to decide which – if any – ofthe 101 side effects are "real" and requires withdrawal of a medication. The ingredients in Advair are quite common ones and seem to help many persons. Murray Grossan, M.D. http://www.ent-consult.com http://www.TinnitusRelief.net http://www.emedicine.com/ent/topic516.htm

Response:

Many people find Advair and Flovent disagreeable immedeiately.  So they switch to Pulmicort, which, conversely, is not for everyone.  These two are both powerful and effective steroids. Address:http://www.consumerlawpage.com/article/asthma.shtml Changed:9:56 PM on Friday, November 8, 2002

Response:

Question:

 This is a re-post from a while ago. I think it answers your question. PEF = Peak expiratory flow; this is the fastest speed you can get air moving out of your lungs if you blow real hard. Back in the old days they used to have "the match test." The doctor would hold a lit match several inches in front of your face (I forget how many – we have PF’s now) and ask you to blow with your mouth open. If you couldn’t blow it out they knew you were in trouble. They could also quantitate things somewhat by describing how close they had to hold the match before you could blow it out. This test was more convenient back when everyone smoked. Somewhere along the line, someone decided to make a device that gave a number. There are several different brands out there. The numbers don’t compare exactly between different models and even between the same model in different conditions. It is the trend, and your own history that counts, so the differences don’t mean all that much. Basically, it is cheap and easy to use. It can give the doctor a number to follow, which is always helpful. You can say "250" rather than "pretty bad." It does have several limitations. The first is that everyone should establish their own "normal." In most ER’s they will have tables that tell them what "normal" for you should be. Trouble is that it varies greatly and these charts are worthless (IMO). Most of the people here probably never get anywhere near "normal." On a good day the chart would have you near death. Some, like myself, can do much more than "normal" and so if they believe the chart, and not me, they will miss a serious decrease in function. The second limitation is that it does not measure precisely the right thing. The PEF generally measures the airflow coming out of the large airways, such as the trachea and first few branches of the Bronchi. Asthma usually is more of a disease of small airways. That is why they make you blow into the PFT machine until you want to pass out. That last little bit of air is coming from the small airways. Usually the PEF correlates with disease severity in asthma, but you have to keep in mind that the PFM (Peak flow meter) is not measuring exactly the right thing and may read normal during a severe attack. The information it gives can be misleading. If you have one at home and use it regularly you will get to know what your best is, and at what levels you tend to get into trouble. This information, derived from your experience, and not a chart can be helpful. It allows you to have a precise way of communicating to your doctor how severe your attack is. The trend now is to develop an "action plan." The PF readings are usually divided up into three zones; green, yellow, and red. The green zone means continue as usual, or possibly taper meds down, depending on what you are doing. Yellow usually calls for some increase in therapy and possibly a call to the doctor. Red usually means call the doctor or 911. — Good Luck, CBI, M.D. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can someone explain to me how one can have normal peak flow readings (over 100%) and still be short of breath.  Could there be a respiratory infection? Niasha

Response:

Hello! I really understand how frustrated you must be!  My peak flow is generally fairly constant, even if I feel tight in my chest.  My doc said he has some patients showing a high peak flow reading yet are sick enough to go to the ER!!  The only time my peak flow dips is when I am really, really sick. I’ve just had to learn through experience and calls to my doctor how to gauge my symptoms and the need for any additional meds.  I was relying heavily on my Pf readings but learned to listen to my body, also. Best of luck, Patrice – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – _That_ explains a few things!  I’d been wondering myself how I could still be having symptoms when my peak flow readings were so high… hmmmm some of this is beginning to make sense to me……Every summer I have the same problems, chest tightness, shortness of breath, panic and chest pain…and every summer i start on the same regime of drugs….ventolin and pulmicort and every summer I never feel any better than the last.  I am beginning to get very frustrated and I am beginning to doubt myself and wonder if it is all in my head. This summer my doctor asked me to start recording peak flow information.  I have been doing it for just over two weeks now (which I hear is a good preliminary period) but i feel just as confused as every.  My symptoms seem consistent with asthma, but not the peak flows.  My levels are high in the morning, dip in the afternoon and evening.  After taking ventolin my personal best is 525.  most days i come in around 425.  but some days at 425 i feel ok and other days i feel like I am suffocating.  and the difference between 450 and 425 feels like the difference between 450 and 200. i thought that this was supposed to take the guess work out of this whole mess and give me some "ammunition" when I go to my doctor? but i am still confused, frustrated and on the verge of a nervous breakdown and I fear that my doctor thinks I am nuts. ter Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

A peak flow meter only measures the condition of the large airways. You could be having problems with the small airways causing such symptoms.

_That_ explains a few things!  I’d been wondering myself how I could still be having symptoms when my peak flow readings were so high…

Response:

_That_ explains a few things!  I’d been wondering myself how I could still be having symptoms when my peak flow readings were so high…

hmmmm some of this is beginning to make sense to me……Every summer I have the same problems, chest tightness, shortness of breath, panic and chest pain…and every summer i start on the same regime of drugs….ventolin and pulmicort and every summer I never feel any better than the last.  I am beginning to get very frustrated and I am beginning to doubt myself and wonder if it is all in my head. This summer my doctor asked me to start recording peak flow information.  I have been doing it for just over two weeks now (which I hear is a good preliminary period) but i feel just as confused as every.  My symptoms seem consistent with asthma, but not the peak flows.  My levels are high in the morning, dip in the afternoon and evening.  After taking ventolin my personal best is 525.  most days i come in around 425.  but some days at 425 i feel ok and other days i feel like I am suffocating.  and the difference between 450 and 425 feels like the difference between 450 and 200. i thought that this was supposed to take the guess work out of this whole mess and give me some "ammunition" when I go to my doctor? but i am still confused, frustrated and on the verge of a nervous breakdown and I fear that my doctor thinks I am nuts. ter Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Oh, oh!  Thanks.  Niasha – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you are having trouble breathing, but your PFs are stable, then it is probably an infection.  If the PFs are dropping, but improve with albuterol, that is asthma. Chris Owens Earlier this month I was hospitalized for a week with pneumonia. During all that time, my peak flows were at 100%. Emily M.

Response:

Can someone explain to me how one can have normal peak flow readings (over 100%) and still be short of breath.  Could there be a respiratory infection? Niasha

A peak flow meter only measures the condition of the large airways. You could be having problems with the small airways causing such symptoms. It could be a respiratory infection; often a virus where antibiotics would probably not be prescribed. Usually an Action Plan calls for increasing meds when either Peak Flow drops into Yellow zone, OR symptoms increase. [eg double inhaled steroid, use Ventolin as needed] Ellis

Response:

Ellis you are tooo clever.  That’s what my doctor said on Friday.  She explained the difference and procedures for a viral vs a bacterial infection (which requires an anitbiotic).   I am on nebulizer treatments and increase steriods.  This is Sunday morning and I feel better already.  Thanks, Niasha Ellis  wrote…A peak flow meter only measures the condition of the large

airways. You could be having problems with the small airways causing such symptoms.  It could be a respiratory infection; often

a virus where  antibiotics would probably not be prescribed.  Usually an Action Plan calls for increasing meds when either Peak Flow drops into Yellow zone, OR symptoms increase.  [eg double inhaled steroid, use Ventolin as needed]

Response:

If you are having trouble breathing, but your PFs are stable, then it is probably an infection.  If the PFs are dropping, but improve with albuterol, that is asthma. Chris Owens

Earlier this month I was hospitalized for a week with pneumonia. During all that time, my peak flows were at 100%. Emily M.

Response:

Fooey, hooey!  Txs Niasha Can someone explain to me how one can have normal peak flow readings (over 100%) and still be short of breath.  Could there be a respiratory

infection? chris responded…Not only could there be, it’s very likely.  Doctor time.

Response:

PFR are accurate.  I put my average high (700) to be on the safe side.   I can usually go up to 850 at least once and an average bet.  650 and 750 2 out of 3 times.  I guess my question is more about when do you know it’s an asthma attack Vs a respiratory infection.  For asthma I go to the specialist and for infections to my GP (who, by the way, is extremely knowledgeable).

If you are having trouble breathing, but your PFs are stable, then it is probably an infection.  If the PFs are dropping, but improve with albuterol, that is asthma. Chris Owens

Response:

PFR are accurate.  I put my average high (700) to be on the safe side.   I can usually go up to 850 at least once and an average bet.  650 and 750 2 out of 3 times.  I guess my question is more about when do you know it’s an asthma attack Vs a respiratory infection.  For asthma I go to the specialist and for infections to my GP (who, by the way, is extremely knowledgeable). – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -nancy wrote… I would suggest going to your pulmonologist and making sure that your numbers are correct.  Are you sure that your "normal" zone isnt too high?  We had a bit of trouble pinpointing my correct range, but once we did, my numbers/breathing were right on the money.

Response:

Can someone explain to me how one can have normal peak flow readings (over 100%) and still be short of breath.  Could there be a respiratory infection? Niasha

Response:

Can someone explain to me how one can have normal peak flow readings (over 100%) and still be short of breath.  Could there be a respiratory infection?

Not only could there be, it’s very likely.  Doctor time. Chris Owens

Response:

Can someone explain to me how one can have normal peak flow readings (over 100%) and still be short of breath.  Could there be a respiratory infection? Niasha

I would suggest going to your pulmonologist and making sure that your numbers are correct.  Are you sure that your "normal" zone isnt too high?  We had a bit of trouble pinpointing my correct range, but once we did, my numbers/breathing were right on the money. Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

Question:

 Hi, I have been on zoloft for about a year now. It has absolutely erased my anxiety. I am on 25 mgs a day, which I know is low, but it seems to work for me. I have not slept well in months now, which I know is a side effect. At the same time, I am scared to try and come off this. The zoloft has zapped my depression and anxiety, yet who can go without good sleep? I know I have to call my doc, but I wanted to start with you guys first. chaz — The charter is available at:

Question:

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

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

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

Response:

Question:

Thanks.  Sorry about the repost that appears as gibberish.  I had previously used an anonymous posting service but thought it did not work since I got no response for hours.  I also did not know the posting service posted everything in html. Yes, that is correct.  when off zoloft I get impulsive and aggresive. I will agree the Zoloft is helping but I do not want to take it forever.  It has many side effects as you probably know.  I actually liked the feeling of being ‘high’ when being off the zoloft.  I had forgotten what it was like. I only restarted to take it to see if I went back to my previous socially more likeable state.  I also started back to calm down a bit and make sure I did not do or say anything impulsive that might cause problems at work. My goal is to find out what is causing the non-zoloft feelings and behaviors.  I am beginning to think definetely a physiological basis but sometimes I wonder if it is some sort of personality problem. This is the first medicine I have taken my whole life that has made a difference but I would like to see if there is another way to get cured.  Maybe its a sugar problem, hormonal problem, etc and the zoloft just softens the blow of the physiological imbalance. bg – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello, and welcome to ASD ) Do you mean that you’ve had the impulsive, aggresive, feelings only when not taking ‘Zoloft’?  If that is so then perhaps the ‘Zoloft’ is helping you.  If you find that you still get episodes of the feelings you don’t want, even while taking the ‘Zoloft’, then you need to tell your doctor so that other treatments can be considered.

Response:

Can you try sending this message again, but in ‘plain text’?  The format isn’t recognised by any of my software.  Sorry ((

You too, eh? I wonder what software was used to compose it. — Compute Free: <http://debian.org <http://freedos.org <http://openbsd.org Help People:  <http://rawa.org <http://tibet.org <http://gadenrelief.org Do Something: <http://www.msf.org <http://www.icrc.org/ <http://icbl.org Now: <http://www.foei.org <http://www.greenpeace.org <http://activist.ca

Response:

<html<div style=’background-color:’<DIV <DIV <DIV <DIVHello.</DIV <DIV&nbsp;</DIV

snip Can you try sending this message again, but in ‘plain text’?  The format isn’t recognised by any of my software.  Sorry (( — —  Whiskers

Response:

<html<div style=’background-color:’<DIV

Your message body is not in news format nor proper HTML. It is very difficult to read. We’re mostly a bunch of depressoids who have enough trouble even doing simple things. Could you post again in plain text? — Compute Free: <http://debian.org <http://freedos.org <http://openbsd.org Help People:  <http://rawa.org <http://tibet.org <http://gadenrelief.org Do Something: <http://www.msf.org <http://www.icrc.org/ <http://icbl.org Now: <http://www.foei.org <http://www.greenpeace.org <http://activist.ca

Response:

<html<div style=’background-color:’<DIV <DIV <DIV <DIVHello.</DIV <DIV&nbsp;</DIV <DIVBrief Summary:</DIV <DIV <DIVMy age is 34 and gender is male.&nbsp; </DIV</DIV <DIVBeen a sufferer of anxiety/depression for 20 years.&nbsp; </DIV <DIVAbout 2 years ago started taking zoloft for anxiety attacks that were the largest ever in my adult life.&nbsp; </DIV <DIV <DIV2 years ago I was also diagnosed with hypo-thyroid.&nbsp; My hypo is no longer a problem due to synthroid.</DIV <DIVStarted taking zoloft and synthroid at the same time. </DIV</DIV <DIVThe zoloft helped the anxiety and also helped with social anxiety.&nbsp; Never felt better in my whole life.</DIV <DIV&nbsp;</DIV <DIVAbout 1 month ago, I stopped zoloft cold turkey.&nbsp; Had some physical reactions to stopping but those</DIV <DIVcleared after about 2 weeks.&nbsp; However I became hyper, gained a big ego, became aggressive, some impulse</DIV <DIVproblems, felt kind of on the edge of losing control with anger and with happiness,&nbsp;more energetic, and </DIV <DIVthe mind kept racing.</DIV <DIV&nbsp;</DIV <DIVAfter seeing my doctor (Psychiatrist) he asked if I wanted to go back on the zoloft to see if the problems</DIV <DIVwent away. I started taking 50 mg and within 3 days I was back to how I was before the Zoloft.&nbsp; This appearance</DIV <DIVand disappearance does not seem to fit the pattern for bi-polar. Since zoloft is not for bi-polar and second</DIV <DIVthe opposite if anything would have happened.&nbsp; eg, hyper on zoloft, not hyper off it.</DIV <DIV&nbsp;</DIV <DIVI do not think these feelings and behaviors were due to stopping the zoloft.&nbsp; I have had many of these</DIV <DIVsymptoms before taking zoloft off and on for years.&nbsp; </DIV <DIV&nbsp;</DIV <DIVSo my question is what might my problem be?&nbsp; Yes, this is a bit vague question and also given my tiny bio</DIV <DIVseems an absurd question.&nbsp; I am wondering if anyone has had this sort of situation before and if so what</DIV <DIVit was.&nbsp; Or maybe there is someone out there who knows of a physiological basis for this.</DIV <DIV&nbsp;</DIV <DIVThanks a bunch.</DIV</DIV</DIV</DIV</div<br clear=all<hrChat with friends online, try MSN Messenger: <a href=’http://g.msn.com/1HM1ENUS/c144??PS=47575′Click Here</a<br</html — For info about this service, see http://anon.twwells.com/help/ or e-mail:

Response:

snip I do not think these feelings and behaviors were due to stopping the zoloft.  I have had many of these symptoms before taking zoloft off and on for years.

snip Hello, and welcome to ASD ) Do you mean that you’ve had the impulsive, aggresive, feelings only when not taking ‘Zoloft’?  If that is so then perhaps the ‘Zoloft’ is helping you.  If you find that you still get episodes of the feelings you don’t want, even while taking the ‘Zoloft’, then you need to tell your doctor so that other treatments can be considered. — —  Whiskers

Response:

Hello. Brief Summary: My age is 34 and gender is male.   Been a sufferer of anxiety/depression for 20 years.   About 2 years ago started taking zoloft for anxiety attacks that were the largest ever in my adult life. 2 years ago I was also diagnosed with hypo-thyroid.  My hypo is no longer a problem due to synthroid. Started taking zoloft and synthroid at the same time. The zoloft helped the anxiety and also helped with social anxiety. Never felt better in my whole life. About 1 month ago, I stopped zoloft cold turkey.  Had some physical reactions to stopping but those cleared after about 2 weeks.  However I became hyper, gained a big ego, became aggressive, some impulse problems, felt kind of on the edge of losing control with anger and with happiness, more energetic, and the mind kept racing. After seeing my doctor (Psychiatrist) he asked if I wanted to go back on the zoloft to see if the problems went away. I started taking 50 mg and within 3 days I was back to how I was before the Zoloft.  This appearance and disappearance does not seem to fit the pattern for bi-polar. Since zoloft is not for bi-polar and second the opposite if anything would have happened.  eg, hyper on zoloft, not hyper off it. I do not think these feelings and behaviors were due to stopping the zoloft.  I have had many of these symptoms before taking zoloft off and on for years. So my question is what might my problem be?  Yes, this is a bit vague question and also given my tiny bio seems an absurd question.  I am wondering if anyone has had this sort of situation before and if so what it was.  Or maybe there is someone out there who knows of a physiological basis for this. Thanks a bunch.

Response:

Yes, that is correct.  when off zoloft I get impulsive and aggresive.

Have you ever had a head injury? even an untreated one? My goal is to find out what is causing the non-zoloft feelings and behaviors.  I am beginning to think definetely a physiological basis but sometimes I wonder if it is some sort of personality problem.

They are both horrible quagmires. This is the first medicine I have taken my whole life that has made a difference but I would like to see if there is another way to get cured.  Maybe its a sugar problem, hormonal problem, etc and the zoloft just softens the blow of the physiological imbalance.

There can be lots of things like that. Be careful though, it’s hard to assess from within and as lay people, we can easily get the wrong conclusions and ideas about things. — Compute Free: <http://debian.org <http://freedos.org <http://openbsd.org Help People:  <http://rawa.org <http://tibet.org <http://gadenrelief.org Do Something: <http://www.msf.org <http://www.icrc.org/ <http://icbl.org Now: <http://www.foei.org <http://www.greenpeace.org <http://activist.ca

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Thanks.  Sorry about the repost that appears as gibberish.  I had previously used an anonymous posting service but thought it did not work since I got no response for hours.  I also did not know the posting service posted everything in html.

I think twwells does put a bit of a delay in getting messages out, but others in ASD do use it.  I think your news-reader program (Outlook Express?) may be set to use ‘Rich text’ or HTML – if you try twwells again with your software set to use ‘plain text’ things might work better, and I’m sure it’s more convenient than posting via Google. [benefits of treatment] Yes, that is correct.  when off zoloft I get impulsive and aggresive. I will agree the Zoloft is helping but I do not want to take it forever.  It has many side effects as you probably know.  I actually liked the feeling of being ‘high’ when being off the zoloft.  I had forgotten what it was like. I only restarted to take it to see if I went back to my previous socially more likeable state.  I also started back to calm down a bit and make sure I did not do or say anything impulsive that might cause problems at work. My goal is to find out what is causing the non-zoloft feelings and behaviors.  

Talking therapy helps many people work out stuff like that.  Zoloft (sertraline) is an anti-depressant, so if it helps then Depression might well be at least part of the problem.  There are many other anti-depressants if there are side-effects of sertraline that you can’t accept – a doctor would be able to advise. I am beginning to think definetely a physiological basis but sometimes I wonder if it is some sort of personality problem.

Depression /is/ physical – chemical neuro-transmitters get out of balance, and anti-depressants work by doing various things to adjust the balance.  How things get out of balance in the first place, is not yet worked out; there may be several causes.  As far as I know, personality disorders are best diagnosed by a psychiatrist or psychologist; your doctor could probably tell you more about that and possibly arrange a referral. This is the first medicine I have taken my whole life that has made a difference but I would like to see if there is another way to get cured.  Maybe its a sugar problem, hormonal problem, etc and the zoloft just softens the blow of the physiological imbalance. bg

There are standard tests for things like thyroid, liver, or kidney problems, or diabetes, and its certainly worth getting a doctor to arrange such tests for you. — —  Whiskers

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Can you try sending this message again, but in ‘plain text’?  The format isn’t recognised by any of my software.  Sorry (( You too, eh? I wonder what software was used to compose it.

‘twwells’ has stripped the headers, but I’d guess Outlook Express; in stripping the headers twwells has also removed the encoding information and possibly scrambled some of the HTML. — —  Whiskers

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‘twwells’ has stripped the headers, but I’d guess Outlook Express;

I never knew exactly what the problem was with Microsoft and Apple business practices until I started using open source software. — Compute Free: <http://debian.org <http://freedos.org <http://openbsd.org Help People:  <http://rawa.org <http://tibet.org <http://gadenrelief.org Do Something: <http://www.msf.org <http://www.icrc.org/ <http://icbl.org Now: <http://www.foei.org <http://www.greenpeace.org <http://activist.ca

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Question:

I am on celexa, and for me the sexual side effects are the same, very low desire.  Best of luck to you! Chad Love is true when you can’t see eye to eye, but can still walk hand in hand.

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:Hi, i have been on  zoloft(50mgs) with .25 xanax(as needed) for about a :year now. i have not had a panic attack since but feel i could panic at :times. i am a compulsive thinker and usually have the "anxiety" feeling :in my stomach(knots or whatever). i think i want to try celexa but dont :want to screw up my progress i have with zoloft but zoloft seems to make :me numb and dumb. i use to be very sexual but now i can care less about :sex. before when i saw arousing things(naked women) my heart would pound :and i would get that "aroused" feeling. now i could look at nudity and :get the same effect as a gardening magazine:((  i heard celexa has less :sexual side effects so this is why i am considering switching meds. my :sexual side effect from zoloft is not impotence but very low desire and :ejaculation takes very very long. any ideas on celexa for me? :experiences? anything?

Celexa may have less effect on your libido, or it may be worse. The only way to find out is to try it. In most cases you can switch between SSRIs (and SSRIs to TCAs, SSNRIs) overnight. But there are other things you could try first.  Do a search of ASAP’s archives at Deja (or whatever they are now called) for " sexual dysfunction ". Best wishes Ian

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Hi, i have been on  zoloft(50mgs) with .25 xanax(as needed) for about a year now. i have not had a panic attack since but feel i could panic at times. i am a compulsive thinker and usually have the "anxiety" feeling in my stomach(knots or whatever). i think i want to try celexa but dont want to screw up my progress i have with zoloft but zoloft seems to make me numb and dumb. i use to be very sexual but now i can care less about sex. before when i saw arousing things(naked women) my heart would pound and i would get that "aroused" feeling. now i could look at nudity and get the same effect as a gardening magazine:((  i heard celexa has less sexual side effects so this is why i am considering switching meds. my sexual side effect from zoloft is not impotence but very low desire and ejaculation takes very very long. any ideas on celexa for me? experiences? anything?

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Question:

Hello,     Went to the doctor’s and he has increased my dosage of Paxil from 20 mg to 40 mg. I did not realize there was going to be a yoyo effect from not taking amitriptilene. I am looking forward to a normal night’s sleep (for me 6 or 7 hours) whenever that will occur, I cannot say, but I am trying to optimistic. Many thanks to all for the moral support.

Dear Mike, Please don`t increase your Paxil dose by 20 mgs, that is a huge increase at one time and there is a chance you will experience really uncomfortable side-effects. People with anxiety disorders need to start at a low dose and wean slowly. It is best to increase your dose in 5mg increments. It took me 6 weeks to go from 5 mgs to 20 mgs on Paxil, I can`t imagine a 20mg increase at one time Take care!! Jackie

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello,     Went to the doctor’s and he has increased my dosage of Paxil from 20 mg to 40 mg. I did not realize there was going to be a yoyo effect from not taking amitriptilene. I am looking forward to a normal night’s sleep (for me 6 or 7 hours) whenever that will occur, I cannot say, but I am trying to optimistic. Many thanks to all for the moral support. Dear Mike, Please don`t increase your Paxil dose by 20 mgs, that is a huge increase at one time and there is a chance you will experience really uncomfortable side-effects. People with anxiety disorders need to start at a low dose and wean slowly. It is best to increase your dose in 5mg increments. It took me 6 weeks to go from 5 mgs to 20 mgs on Paxil, I can`t imagine a 20mg increase at one time Take care!! Jackie

Jackie, as usual, is quite right here! Philip

Response:

Mike, I agree with the other replies, don’t initially take the full 20 mgs.  If nothing else, at least cut it in half.  I hope you are able to get some sleep… smiles, elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello,     Went to the doctor’s and he has increased my dosage of Paxil from 20 mg to 40 mg. I did not realize there was going to be a yoyo effect from not taking amitriptilene. I am looking forward to a normal night’s sleep (for me 6 or 7 hours) whenever that will occur, I cannot say, but I am trying to optimistic. Many thanks to all for the moral support. Cheers, Mike Mike, Hope your appt goes well and do let us know how it goes… smiles, elise     Many thanks for the info. I am going to the doctor today. For reasons which I cannot relate here I am not able to take benzos. I feel so tightly wound up, that I cannot relax at all. I have become so jumpy, too. I do not dare drink any coffee, for obvious reasons. When the doctor said that it was all right to just stop taking amitriptilene, I had no idea that I would feel this badly. I have always been tightly wound up, even as a child. It was nice while I did not feel so wound up, until recently. All of this anxiety is making it impossible for me to exercise, (I usually ride a bicycle to and from work) I live in Brooklyn, and I normally ride into Manhattan every day. But, the last 5 months of all this anxiety has made it impossible. I used to ride 30 miles a day. I try to take a walk every evening, just a few miles, to help burn off my nervous energy. I will let you know how I make out at the doctors, and my thanks to those who answered my query, and to those who have had good thoughts for me. Cheers, Mike one supposed to feel like shit, a week and half after not taking Amitriptilene? yes if you abruptly stopped-it takes a week to leave your system -taking both paxil and amitriptyline together is bad medicine imo-they compete quite viruntly for specific receptor sites there are other tca ssri combos that are safer-so you now are feeling the full brunt of the paxil and the abrupt ceasation of the ami-get another doc-btw paxil is less effective in treating ibs then the sedating tca’s even though it may be the most sedating ssri and certainly the most anticholinergic it still doesn’t equate to ami your ami dose was low and buttricing it with a benzo may have provided better relief even now a benzo would do wonders LM

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Hi All,     I have been taking Paxil for about a month and a half, and have a good started taking Paxil, I was taking 75mg of Amitriptilene for a number of months before I started taking Paxil. I was taking Amitriptilene for IBS, but my symptoms had gotten so bad, that the doctor put me on Paxil, and a few weeks later told me it was all right to stop taking the Amitriptilene. There was no tapering down, or anything. Last week, I started waking at night for no reason, and then the symptoms got so bad. I now have a feeling of "impending doom" and I am so fatigued, irritable, etc. Is this normal? Is one supposed to feel like shit, a week and half after not taking Amitriptilene? I would expect some minor discomfort, for a few days, and that is a maybe, but these feelings are horrible. Any ideas? Should I wait a few more days, before caling the doctor? Many thanks in advance. Cheers, Mike

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi All,     I have been taking Paxil for about a month and a half, and have a good started taking Paxil, I was taking 75mg of Amitriptilene for a number of months before I started taking Paxil. I was taking Amitriptilene for IBS, but my symptoms had gotten so bad, that the doctor put me on Paxil, and a few weeks later told me it was all right to stop taking the Amitriptilene. There was no tapering down, or anything. Last week, I started waking at night for no reason, and then the symptoms got so bad. I now have a feeling of "impending doom" and I am so fatigued, irritable, etc. Is this normal? Is one supposed to feel like shit, a week and half after not taking Amitriptilene? I would expect some minor discomfort, for a few days, and that is a maybe, but these feelings are horrible. Any ideas? Should I wait a few more days, before caling the doctor? Many thanks in advance. Cheers, Mike

I’d call your doc today, and try to get some relief. Chip

Response:

one supposed to feel like shit, a week and half after not taking Amitriptilene?

yes if you abruptly stopped-it takes a week to leave your system -taking both paxil and amitriptyline together is bad medicine imo-they compete quite viruntly for specific receptor sites there are other tca ssri combos that are safer-so you now are feeling the full brunt of the paxil and the abrupt ceasation of the ami-get another doc-btw paxil is less effective in treating ibs then the sedating tca’s even though it may be the most sedating ssri and certainly the most anticholinergic it still doesn’t equate to ami your ami dose was low and buttricing it with a benzo may have provided better relief even now a benzo would do wonders LM

Response:

    Many thanks for the info. I am going to the doctor today. For reasons which I cannot relate here I am not able to take benzos. I feel so tightly wound up, that I cannot relax at all. I have become so jumpy, too. I do not dare drink any coffee, for obvious reasons. When the doctor said that it was all right to just stop taking amitriptilene, I had no idea that I would feel this badly. I have always been tightly wound up, even as a child. It was nice while I did not feel so wound up, until recently. All of this anxiety is making it impossible for me to exercise, (I usually ride a bicycle to and from work) I live in Brooklyn, and I normally ride into Manhattan every day. But, the last 5 months of all this anxiety has made it impossible. I used to ride 30 miles a day. I try to take a walk every evening, just a few miles, to help burn off my nervous energy. I will let you know how I make out at the doctors, and my thanks to those who answered my query, and to those who have had good thoughts for me. Cheers, Mike

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – one supposed to feel like shit, a week and half after not taking Amitriptilene? yes if you abruptly stopped-it takes a week to leave your system -taking both paxil and amitriptyline together is bad medicine imo-they compete quite viruntly for specific receptor sites there are other tca ssri combos that are safer-so you now are feeling the full brunt of the paxil and the abrupt ceasation of the ami-get another doc-btw paxil is less effective in treating ibs then the sedating tca’s even though it may be the most sedating ssri and certainly the most anticholinergic it still doesn’t equate to ami your ami dose was low and buttricing it with a benzo may have provided better relief even now a benzo would do wonders LM

Response:

Mike, Hope your appt goes well and do let us know how it goes… smiles, elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –     Many thanks for the info. I am going to the doctor today. For reasons which I cannot relate here I am not able to take benzos. I feel so tightly wound up, that I cannot relax at all. I have become so jumpy, too. I do not dare drink any coffee, for obvious reasons. When the doctor said that it was all right to just stop taking amitriptilene, I had no idea that I would feel this badly. I have always been tightly wound up, even as a child. It was nice while I did not feel so wound up, until recently. All of this anxiety is making it impossible for me to exercise, (I usually ride a bicycle to and from work) I live in Brooklyn, and I normally ride into Manhattan every day. But, the last 5 months of all this anxiety has made it impossible. I used to ride 30 miles a day. I try to take a walk every evening, just a few miles, to help burn off my nervous energy. I will let you know how I make out at the doctors, and my thanks to those who answered my query, and to those who have had good thoughts for me. Cheers, Mike one supposed to feel like shit, a week and half after not taking Amitriptilene? yes if you abruptly stopped-it takes a week to leave your system -taking both paxil and amitriptyline together is bad medicine imo-they compete quite viruntly for specific receptor sites there are other tca ssri combos that are safer-so you now are feeling the full brunt of the paxil and the abrupt ceasation of the ami-get another doc-btw paxil is less effective in treating ibs then the sedating tca’s even though it may be the most sedating ssri and certainly the most anticholinergic it still doesn’t equate to ami your ami dose was low and buttricing it with a benzo may have provided better relief even now a benzo would do wonders LM

Response:

Hello,     Went to the doctor’s and he has increased my dosage of Paxil from 20 mg to 40 mg. I did not realize there was going to be a yoyo effect from not taking amitriptilene. I am looking forward to a normal night’s sleep (for me 6 or 7 hours) whenever that will occur, I cannot say, but I am trying to optimistic. Many thanks to all for the moral support. Cheers, Mike

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Mike, Hope your appt goes well and do let us know how it goes… smiles, elise     Many thanks for the info. I am going to the doctor today. For reasons which I cannot relate here I am not able to take benzos. I feel so tightly wound up, that I cannot relax at all. I have become so jumpy, too. I do not dare drink any coffee, for obvious reasons. When the doctor said that it was all right to just stop taking amitriptilene, I had no idea that I would feel this badly. I have always been tightly wound up, even as a child. It was nice while I did not feel so wound up, until recently. All of this anxiety is making it impossible for me to exercise, (I usually ride a bicycle to and from work) I live in Brooklyn, and I normally ride into Manhattan every day. But, the last 5 months of all this anxiety has made it impossible. I used to ride 30 miles a day. I try to take a walk every evening, just a few miles, to help burn off my nervous energy. I will let you know how I make out at the doctors, and my thanks to those who answered my query, and to those who have had good thoughts for me. Cheers, Mike one supposed to feel like shit, a week and half after not taking Amitriptilene? yes if you abruptly stopped-it takes a week to leave your system -taking both paxil and amitriptyline together is bad medicine imo-they compete quite viruntly for specific receptor sites there are other tca ssri combos that are safer-so you now are feeling the full brunt of the paxil and the abrupt ceasation of the ami-get another doc-btw paxil is less effective in treating ibs then the sedating tca’s even though it may be the most sedating ssri and certainly the most anticholinergic it still doesn’t equate to ami your ami dose was low and buttricing it with a benzo may have provided better relief even now a benzo would do wonders LM

Response:

For reasons which I cannot relate here I am not able to take benzos.

Mike, you already do.  Diazepam (Valium) and other benzodiazepine type chemicals are in every mouthful of food you eat. Ian

Response:

I took Zoloft for 2 days, I had very little sleep and completely horrifying dreams when I did get to sleep. I felt really shaky and nervous as well. I thought I would be nuts in a week if I would have stayed on. It affects people very differently!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone.I’m on my 2nd dose of Zoloft,25 mgs,my first day I had extreme nausea.On the 2nd day my husband took me to the hospital.I completely zoned out.It was very scary.I plan on completing my treatment because over-coming this awful way of life is important to me.What I’m asking is,was this normal? Should I just lower my dosage?Thanks in advance. Hi Julie! I wish I could help you with the Zoloft question.  I just wanted to welcome you to a very caring group!!! Hugs, Di

Response:

Hi everyone.I’m on my 2nd dose of Zoloft,25 mgs,my first day I had extreme nausea.On the 2nd day my husband took me to the hospital.I completely zoned out.It was very scary.I plan on completing my treatment because over-coming this awful way of life is important to me.What I’m asking is,was this normal? Should I just lower my dosage?Thanks in advance. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

HI Julie, Call your prescribing doctor but I don’t see what it would hurt weaning on at say 12.5 for a few days then upping the dose. Sometimes the side effects are just increased anxiety over taking the med. What do you mean by Zoned out? Hope you are feeling better. Hugs Charla —

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone.I’m on my 2nd dose of Zoloft,25 mgs,my first day I had extreme nausea.On the 2nd day my husband took me to the hospital.I completely zoned out.It was very scary.I plan on completing my treatment because over-coming this awful way of life is important to me.What I’m asking is,was this normal? Should I just lower my dosage?Thanks in advance. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

Hi everyone.I’m on my 2nd dose of Zoloft,25 mgs,my first day I had extreme nausea.On the 2nd day my husband took me to the hospital.I completely zoned out.It was very scary.I plan on completing my treatment because over-coming this awful way of life is important to me.What I’m asking is,was this normal? Should I just lower my dosage?Thanks in advance.

It’s best to start at 12.5mg with Z if you have anxiety problems.  It’s difficult to know what to say about your side effects, though.  It can cause nausea, but I’m not sure what you mean by "zoned out" though it must have been serious to go to the hospital.  Make sure you describe in detail what happened to your psychiatrist.  If you give the ng better details on the side effects you may get better advice. Best of luck to you, Matt

Response:

Thanks!It really helps to know there are people here who can relate to how I feel.Well after only 3 days my dr. took me off Zoloft.My body couldn’t handle the side-effects.I feel really disappointed because I’ve heard others have good results from this.He said we would try something different in about a week.Any ideas on something that may be better for me? Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

Thanks!It really helps to know there are people here who can relate to how I feel.Well after only 3 days my dr. took me off Zoloft.My body couldn’t handle the side-effects.I feel really disappointed because I’ve heard others have good results from this.He said we would try something different in about a week.Any ideas on something that may be better for me?

There are lots of possibilities. Another SSRI like Celexa would be a possibility. If one SSRI doesn’t work another might. It may be augmented by a benzo like (preferably IMO) Xanax. But if you try Celexa start at *5 mg* and no more. I am not totally convinced that you wouldn’t be able to benefit from Zoloft if it had been administered in the right low dose but Celexa works as well and supposedly has a lower side effect profile. There are many other possibilites: a TCA like imipramine, desipramine etc. preferably in a combo with a benzo, or newer AD’s like especially Effexor. Etc.etc. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

Hi everyone.I’m on my 2nd dose of Zoloft,25 mgs,my first day I had extreme nausea.On the 2nd day my husband took me to the hospital.I completely zoned out.It was very scary.I plan on completing my treatment because over-coming this awful way of life is important to me.What I’m asking is,was this normal? Should I just lower my dosage?Thanks in advance.

Hi Julie! I wish I could help you with the Zoloft question.  I just wanted to welcome you to a very caring group!!! Hugs, Di

Response:

You shouldn’t take Zoloft on an empty stomach.  Actually you shouldn’t take an pills (e.g. vitamins) on an empty stomach unless the pharmacist tells you to do so.

Actually since taking Z (though Z is somewhat unique in this) on a full stomach increases absorption of the med, if she wanted an even smaller effect than 12.5 mg would give her she could try it on an empty stomach. Matt

Response:

In the UK, my doctor said that there is no dosage less than 50mg. And so I had bad stuff hapening to me. Which included nausea, I assume you were not sick tho. I would have carried on but I had to work and so I stopped after two days, the side effects are ment to go away.

In the US we have scored 25mg tablets.  You could get a pill cutter which would would take the 50mg, if scored, down to 12.5mg.  (But I suppose this is a little after the fact.) Matt

Response:

After what I experienced I would be terrified to take 50mgs! I’m hoping to do better on a low dosage. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

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In the UK, my doctor said that there is no dosage less than 50mg. And so I had bad stuff hapening to me. Which included nausea, I assume you were not sick tho. I would have carried on but I had to work and so I stopped after two days, the side effects are ment to go away. — If I could start again. A million milles away I would keep myself. I would find a way. It’s a damn mad world. And It will get madder before it ends. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone.I’m on my 2nd dose of Zoloft,25 mgs,my first day I had extreme nausea.On the 2nd day my husband took me to the hospital.I completely zoned out.It was very scary.I plan on completing my treatment because over-coming this awful way of life is important to me.What I’m asking is,was this normal? Should I just lower my dosage?Thanks in advance. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

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Thanks everyone for the advice.This was really a scary reaction I had.It’s hard to explain what happened.I’m seeing my dr. tomorrow.The hospital gave me benadryl for the reaction,it helped.I’m thinking maybe I started at too high a dose,my body wasn’t ready.I intend to continue my treatment.I will be 40 this month,it seems like I’ve lived most of my life in fear. Maybe with the help of my dr. and people who understand what this is like,I will find a successful treatment.Thanks All! Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

Hi everyone.I’m on my 2nd dose of Zoloft,25 mgs,my first day I had extreme nausea.On the 2nd day my husband took me to the hospital.I completely zoned out.It was very scary.I plan on completing my treatment because over-coming this awful way of life is important to me.What I’m asking is,was this normal? Should I just lower my dosage?Thanks in advance.

Nausea and feeling zoned out are common initial side effects of Zoloft but it seems you had a really bad reaction. It is advisable IMO to start Zoloft at 12,5 mgs, stay there for a week and then raise the dose in increments of 12,5 mgs every week or at whatever pace is comfortable for you. *Starting low & going slow* will minimize the initial side effects. Moreover this could be helped by taking a benzo like Xanax on the side *as needed*, at least during the time you are weaning on Zoloft. You should give Zoloft a 6-8 week trial to be able to properly assess its effect but it’s likely that you will feel better much earlier. What does your doctor say? Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

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Julie, Sorry I can’t help you with the zoloft question because I don’t take that, but just wanted to say I hope everything goes well for you and you can get back to a more normal life. smiles, elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone.I’m on my 2nd dose of Zoloft,25 mgs,my first day I had extreme nausea.On the 2nd day my husband took me to the hospital.I completely zoned out.It was very scary.I plan on completing my treatment because over-coming this awful way of life is important to me.What I’m asking is,was this normal? Should I just lower my dosage?Thanks in advance. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

I don’t know where you live but do you think that it ia normal, to give somebody shock treatment for anxiety and panic??

NO! It is something like a last resort for depression but there is no evidence AFAIK that it works for PAD. No ECT! I don’t think so, maybe for people who  have only depression. but that I am depri is because of the fakt that I have try’d now so many med; and the only one who helpt me was Remeron. But the side effect where so bad that I had to stop.

But we know now that those side effects were from the fillers. You found that out yourself! And soon Remeron will be available in loquid form and your troubles may be over…. they may be over earlier when the Dutonin (Serzone) will start to work…. I am optimistic…. love Diana.

Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is it normal that I feel very depri? When I was in Ireland I had not a very good time, I had than for med; selexa and clonazepam. I felt very depri. Now I am back for 14 days and I have other med; Dutonin( serzone) but I feel more and more depri. I know the new med need it’s time. But this is something that  is for me well known. I had this feeling before and it’s make’s me afraid, not for myself because I wish that I had the opportunitie to……. But for not my family. I am so tired from al this, every 8 weeks other med; sometimes less than 4 weeks. because I have sometimes very bad side effects, and than I have to stop. this is now going on for 18 mounths and I am fed up with all this. I don’t want no more, I had it. Before I went to Ireland I brought all the pills that I had safe’t to my gp. That was not a very good idea from me, so I start over again. the first I have already, I don’t know anymore for this moment what to do.everything that I try is going wrong. WHY, I feel my self worthless that I can get myself under control. Love Diana. Please no answer on my pc. {{{Diana}}} You are *not* worthless. You just feel that way because you are depressed. It is a symptom of depression. Give the Serzone some more time to work. If no med is able to help your depression, there is shock treatment as a last resort. Love, Chip Before you buy.

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Dear Diana, Yes I would say it is very normal to feel depressed and frustrated after 18 months of trying so many different drugs and sometimes feeling worse. This can be a very long road. I am doing the same thing but thankful when the good days DO come, and they will! Sorry you are having such a hard time. I am just sticking with the Klonopin and no more antidepressants. None of them helped me – too many side effects – and life is OK most of the time. I hope the Serzone starts to help you soon. Is it giving you side effects?? Love,

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Is it normal that I feel very depri? When I was in Ireland I had not a very good time, I had than for med; selexa and clonazepam. I felt very depri. Now I am back for 14 days and I have other med; Dutonin( serzone) but I feel more and more depri. I know the new med need it’s time. But this is something that  is for me well known. I had this feeling before and it’s make’s me afraid, not for myself because I wish that I had the opportunitie to……. But for not my family. I am so tired from al this, every 8 weeks other med; sometimes less than 4 weeks. because I have sometimes very bad side effects, and than I have to stop. this is now going on for 18 mounths and I am fed up with all this. I don’t want no more, I had it. Before I went to Ireland I brought all the pills that I had safe’t to my gp. That was not a very good idea from me, so I start over again. the first I have already, I don’t know anymore for this moment what to do.everything that I try is going wrong. WHY, I feel my self worthless that I can get myself under control. Love Diana. Please no answer on my pc.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is it normal that I feel very depri? When I was in Ireland I had not a very good time, I had than for med; selexa and clonazepam. I felt very depri. Now I am back for 14 days and I have other med; Dutonin( serzone) but I feel more and more depri. I know the new med need it’s time. But this is something that  is for me well known. I had this feeling before and it’s make’s me afraid, not for myself because I wish that I had the opportunitie to……. But for not my family. I am so tired from al this, every 8 weeks other med; sometimes less than 4 weeks. because I have sometimes very bad side effects, and than I have to stop. this is now going on for 18 mounths and I am fed up with all this. I don’t want no more, I had it. Before I went to Ireland I brought all the pills that I had safe’t to my gp. That was not a very good idea from me, so I start over again. the first I have already, I don’t know anymore for this moment what to do.everything that I try is going wrong. WHY, I feel my self worthless that I can get myself under control. Love Diana. Please no answer on my pc.

{{{Diana}}} You are *not* worthless. You just feel that way because you are depressed. It is a symptom of depression. Give the Serzone some more time to work. If no med is able to help your depression, there is shock treatment as a last resort. Love, Chip Before you buy.

Response:

I don’t know where you live but do you think that it ia normal, to give somebody shock treatment for anxiety and panic?? I don’t think so, maybe for people who  have only depression. but that I am depri is because of the fakt that I have try’d now so many med; and the only one who helpt me was Remeron. But the side effect where so bad that I had to stop. love Diana. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is it normal that I feel very depri? When I was in Ireland I had not a very good time, I had than for med; selexa and clonazepam. I felt very depri. Now I am back for 14 days and I have other med; Dutonin( serzone) but I feel more and more depri. I know the new med need it’s time. But this is something that  is for me well known. I had this feeling before and it’s make’s me afraid, not for myself because I wish that I had the opportunitie to……. But for not my family. I am so tired from al this, every 8 weeks other med; sometimes less than 4 weeks. because I have sometimes very bad side effects, and than I have to stop. this is now going on for 18 mounths and I am fed up with all this. I don’t want no more, I had it. Before I went to Ireland I brought all the pills that I had safe’t to my gp. That was not a very good idea from me, so I start over again. the first I have already, I don’t know anymore for this moment what to do.everything that I try is going wrong. WHY, I feel my self worthless that I can get myself under control. Love Diana. Please no answer on my pc. {{{Diana}}} You are *not* worthless. You just feel that way because you are depressed. It is a symptom of depression. Give the Serzone some more time to work. If no med is able to help your depression, there is shock treatment as a last resort. Love, Chip Before you buy.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is it normal that I feel very depri? When I was in Ireland I had not a very good time, I had than for med; selexa and clonazepam. I felt very depri. Now I am back for 14 days and I have other med; Dutonin( serzone) but I feel more and more depri. I know the new med need it’s time. But this is something that  is for me well known. I had this feeling before and it’s make’s me afraid, not for myself because I wish that I had the opportunitie to……. But for not my family. I am so tired from al this, every 8 weeks other med; sometimes less than 4 weeks. because I have sometimes very bad side effects, and than I have to stop. this is now going on for 18 mounths and I am fed up with all this. I don’t want no more, I had it. Before I went to Ireland I brought all the pills that I had safe’t to my gp. That was not a very good idea from me, so I start over again. the first I have already, I don’t know anymore for this moment what to do.everything that I try is going wrong. WHY, I feel my self worthless that I can get myself under control. Love Diana. Please no answer on my pc.

Hi Diana! I feel so bad for you!  You are depressed and I’ve been depressed lately.  Just in the last day or two I’ve been feeling a little better.  The doc raised the Desipramine over the weekend and it made me more depressed.  I’m not taking the extra anymore and I feel better.  Please keep calling your doctor to see what else he can do and hang in there.  It has to get better for you and I believe it will!   {{{{{{{Diana}}}}}}} Diane

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Question:

Snip  I don’t know what she thought about that but now she has put me on 50mg of zoloft but did give me the .75 a day of xanex too. I guess to make a long story short is what is this zoloft and will it help with the panic attacks?  I seem to be ok with the xanex.  I am so confused about all these meds.

Ara, Zoloft is an anti depressent in the same family as Prozac (SSRIs).  It is commonly used for anxiety/panic with a lot of success.  However, as with most anti depressents, you may feel worse before you feel better.  It’s a common practice to perscribe a little Xanax to help out while getting past the initial anti depressent adjustment period.  Also, the initial adjustment period can be as long as 8 weeks.  So, after 8 weeks, if the Zoloft isn’t helping, it probably won’t help and it’s time to try another med.  People commonly see an improvement prior to 8 weeks though.  Many people have been helped by Zoloft, but a minority are not (I can’t take SSRIs because I get rare side effects).  You should have got a sheet from your pharmacist listing the common side effects, you should look those over so you don’t freak if one of them happens. While Xanax is very effective, and people who criticise Xanax in this NG usually get a lot of flack, it has the potential for users to develop a "dependency" on it, meaning you can’t quit taking it after you’ve used it for a while without withdraw symptoms; it must be slowly weaned off.  So, in parts of the medical comunity, Xanax is not politically correct.  Also, people who have a history of substance abuse are more likely to abuse Xanax; but this is rare for most panic/anxiety people.  The irony is that any drug that crosses the blood brain barrier like Zoloft, Xanax, Prozac, most beta blockers, etc. can’t be just stopped, they must be weaned off.  So what makes Xanax so bad?  I’m not sure. Odds are good that Zoloft will help you.  If it doesn’t or you can’t take the side effects (often they stop after a while) there’s lots of other meds to try. BTW, .75 mg of Xanax / day is a low dose, you may find yourself needing more later if the Zoloft does not kick in soon enough, be sure to see your Dr. if this happens. Your Dr. seems to be following a common strategy for anxiety/panic that’s helpful for many people.  You’ll just have to wait and see if it works for you. God bless,   Mark Before you buy.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, New here.  Don’t want to start the newbie stuff.  Just had a couple of questions if you all could help out.  To give a quick recap of what has been going on, I ended up in the ER last month with chest pains (nothing wrong with the heart)and tingly sensations in my neck, head and eyes. The ER doc put me on .5 mg of xanex 4 times a day. Said that it was probably a panic attack. Then he told me to see my regular doc in a couple of days and I did and she put me on .25mg 2 to 3 times a day. She basically said just take the two.  I didn’t seem enough so I took 3 a day and that seemed to be better.  Anyway, went today to get a refill. I told her that the 2 a day wasn’t enough and that I was taking 3.  I told her that the tingly sensations would start coming back if I only took the 2.  I also told her that the more stressed I got the worse the tingly sensations.  I don’t know what she thought about that but now she has put me on 50mg of zoloft but did give me the .75 a day of xanex too. I guess to make a long story short is what is this zoloft and will it help with the panic attacks?  I seem to be ok with the xanex.  I am so confused about all these meds. Thanks for all the help, Ara

Hi Ara & welcome to ASAP! Many doctors have trouble prescribing Xanax and other benzodiazepines because they mistakenly think they are *addictive*. This is not the case. Benzos, like almost all psychotropic and many non-psychotropic meds, will cause some *dependance* which means that you’d better not stop them suddenly but taper off slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Xanax can be taken in two ways: *as needed* (when you feel a PA coming on) or as a maintenance med in a regular daily dose. Xanax is a fast- but short acting med, it works for 5 hours average which means that appr. 5 hours after having taking one your body will warn you that it’s time for another dose. To prescribe Xanax in whatever dose to be taken twice a day is not very sensible becausae 24 hours divided by 5 = (more than) 4 times. The average therapeutic dose of Xanax is anywhere between 2-6 mgs. Its most important side effect is *sedation* which will cease or at least diminish a lot after your body has become accustomed to it. Obviously your doctor feels not comfortable treating you with Xanax alone and also maybe is undersubscribing so she gave you Zoloft which is an antidepressant from the SSRI-group which are often used for PD and are first choice meds just like the benzos are. AD’s will worsen your anxiety in the beginning and sometimes throw in some weird initial side effects of their own which is a reason to *start low – go slow*. Starting someone on 50 mgs of Zoloft is asking for trouble. Best is 12,5 mgs for a week and then slowly raise it in 12,5 mgs increments a week until therapeutic dose is reached. In itself the choice of Zoloft isn’t a bad one and the combo of an SSRI and a benzo is a good one (Xanax will also help avoiding or minimizing initial Zoloft side effects). Philip

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Hi all, New here.  Don’t want to start the newbie stuff.  Just had a couple of questions if you all could help out.  To give a quick recap of what has been going on, I ended up in the ER last month with chest pains (nothing wrong with the heart)and tingly sensations in my neck, head and eyes. The ER doc put me on .5 mg of xanex 4 times a day. Said that it was probably a panic attack. Then he told me to see my regular doc in a couple of days and I did and she put me on .25mg 2 to 3 times a day. She basically said just take the two.  I didn’t seem enough so I took 3 a day and that seemed to be better.  Anyway, went today to get a refill. I told her that the 2 a day wasn’t enough and that I was taking 3.  I told her that the tingly sensations would start coming back if I only took the 2.  I also told her that the more stressed I got the worse the tingly sensations.  I don’t know what she thought about that but now she has put me on 50mg of zoloft but did give me the .75 a day of xanex too. I guess to make a long story short is what is this zoloft and will it help with the panic attacks?  I seem to be ok with the xanex.  I am so confused about all these meds. Thanks for all the help, Ara Before you buy.

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