Question:

I know that steroids can wreak havoc on BG.  What I haven’t been able to learn is how long this effect normally lasts.  For example, if one gets a depo medrol injection, does it affect BG levels for hours/days/weeks?  Thanks to anyone who can answer this.

Response:

        If I’m not mistaken it will stay in the system for several weeks or months.  Any steroids I’ve ever taken caused more trouble then it was worth IMHO                                         Pam

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I know that steroids can wreak havoc on BG.  What I haven’t been able to learn is how long this effect normally lasts.  For example, if one gets a depo medrol injection, does it affect BG levels for hours/days/weeks?  Thanks to anyone who can answer this.

Response:

I know that steroids can wreak havoc on BG.  What I haven’t been able to learn is how long this effect normally lasts.  For example, if one gets a depo medrol injection, does it affect BG levels for hours/days/weeks?  Thanks to anyone who can answer this.

I’ve noticed problems with mere inhaled steroids for asthmatic bronchitis. For me the effect is 20-50 mg/dl unexplainable rise in BG that can last up to five hours. That with 2 puffs of 110mcg FloVent and 2 puffs of 0.2mg MaxAir. (See my question – "another medication question" if it ever shows up! The Fates have conspired against me in all my attempts to post that message to this ng.)

Response:

Question:

: : :Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me :thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just :praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like :a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. : : :There is not a whole lot that you can do.  Colds are caused by viruses :and the only thing that can defeat them is the body’s immune system. : :In an attempt to make life more comfortable, you might discuss (with :your doctor) going on an increased regimen of asthma medications while :you wait for the cold to go away. : My experience suggests:- 1) When a cold starts, immediately double up on inhaled steroids (assuming you take them! – I suspect your doctor may recommend them); it is important not to wait until you start to feel worse. If one doubling does not succeed, do it again. Your doctor should advise on how much is the safe maximum. Depending on how serious your asthma actually is you may be well advised to start monitoring your ability to breath out using a "PFL" (Peak Flow Meter, or "puff-meter as my wife calls it). 2) The suggestion that your sinuses may be involved should be followed up. I had an ever more frequent series of "colds" and other infections, culminating in about 6 months during which I was hardly ever free of something. This was eventually diagnosed as a blocked infected sinus, and I had an operation to get it draining again. This still flares up from time to time, but I quickly take antibiotic and avoid nasty consequences. For mild sinus/cold symptoms, some of the old fashioed cures still work, and work well: steam inhalation (or use of a steam room in a health suite) is very good. Barry Landy                        Computer Laboratory:+44 1223 334600 University of Cambridge Computing Service New Museums Site                   Email: Remove "nospam" from above Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3QG

Response:

Hi Colleen: Thank you SO much for sharing your knowledge and information.  I will make an appointment with my doctor to see if I can get on some antibiotics which will, hopefully, kick this thing! Again, many thanks! Kathy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Colleen: Thanks for your response!  I’m presently taking Flovent 250 (2 puff 3x daily), and Singulair in the evenings. Hi Kathy, If those two drugs control your asthma, then there isn’t any point in changing them. I believe, however,  that "all" asthmatics should  have access to a short-acting bronchodilator medication for use in an emergency.  You really should get a script from your doctor for one. I’ve heard the medication "Pulmicort" being mentioned on this newsgroup.  Some say that they take this only when they have a chest cold, just to get them thru it.  Should I be looking at talking to my doctor about this medication? All inhaled corticosteroids should be taken daily as prescribed. I use Pulmicort via nebulizer (twice a day).  It is an inhaled corticosteroid similar to Flovent and must be used on a regular basis to be effective.   You may be confusing Pulmicort with Prednisone (an oral corticosteroid) which is often prescribed (short term) for asthmatics when they have a severe chest infection (cold). However, I sure don’t recommend the use of oral steroids unless there is absolutely no other choice.   You may need an antibiotic though. Ceftin and Cipro are both good for upper respiratory infections. Talk to your doctor Kathy, you may need one to help you get over this infection, otherwise, your asthma could become more serious. Cheers, Colleen Thanks again! Kathy

Response:

Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity.

There is not a whole lot that you can do.  Colds are caused by viruses and the only thing that can defeat them is the body’s immune system. In an attempt to make life more comfortable, you might discuss (with your doctor) going on an increased regimen of asthma medications while you wait for the cold to go away. "The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has limits." Einstein

Response:

Hi Colleen: Thanks for your response!  I’m presently taking Flovent 250 (2 puff 3x daily), and Singulair in the evenings.

Hi Kathy, If those two drugs control your asthma, then there isn’t any point in changing them. I believe, however,  that "all" asthmatics should  have access to a short-acting bronchodilator medication for use in an emergency.  You really should get a script from your doctor for one. I’ve heard the medication "Pulmicort" being mentioned on this newsgroup.  Some say that they take this only when they have a chest cold, just to get them thru it.  Should I be looking at talking to my doctor about this medication?

All inhaled corticosteroids should be taken daily as prescribed. I use Pulmicort via nebulizer (twice a day).  It is an inhaled corticosteroid similar to Flovent and must be used on a regular basis to be effective.   You may be confusing Pulmicort with Prednisone (an oral corticosteroid) which is often prescribed (short term) for asthmatics when they have a severe chest infection (cold). However, I sure don’t recommend the use of oral steroids unless there is absolutely no other choice.   You may need an antibiotic though. Ceftin and Cipro are both good for upper respiratory infections. Talk to your doctor Kathy, you may need one to help you get over this infection, otherwise, your asthma could become more serious. Cheers, Colleen – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Thanks again! Kathy

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there… I’m fairly new to this asthma thing; having been diagnosed around two years ago at the age of 38.  I have a quick question….. Everytime I contract a cold (which seems to be too often lately), once it reaches my lungs, it sets me WAY back…takes forever to get thru the cold. Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. Thanks for any advise! Kathy Hi Kathy, What medication are you taking for your asthma? If you are not taking inhaled steroids, you should be. Also Singulair may be helpful to you too. Sinus infections could be the root of your problem. Some of the  "colds" you are experiencing may not actually be "colds" at all,  but inflammation caused  by purulence draining into your lungs from your sinus. What are you doing to try to keep your sinus infections under control? Warm salt water nasal irrigation is really helpful to me. The advice offered by Dr. Murray Grossan MD (ENT on-line consultant) below is definitely worth taking. http://www.ent-consult.com/ http://www.ent-consult.com/abstract.html http://www.ent-consult.com/cough.html You may also want to check the alt. support.sinusitis newsgroup. Cheers, Colleen

Hi Colleen: Thanks for your response!  I’m presently taking Flovent 250 (2 puff 3x daily), and Singulair in the evenings. Interesting point about the draining sinuses causing infection.  I’m presently not taking anything other than vitamins.  I’ve heard the medication "Pulmicort" being mentioned on this newsgroup.  Some say that they take this only when they have a chest cold, just to get them thru it.  Should I be looking at talking to my doctor about this medication? Thanks again! Kathy

Response:

Hi, I had the same problem.  Then the phlegm is really thick and makes you choke.  First I was told when I first felt a cold coming on to use my rescue inhaler (Proventil) 4 times daily rather than as needed.  Then I was given Entex LA (decongestant/expectorant) and this has helped me a lot.   I am not a Dr/Professional so check with YOUR doctor before using your rescue inhaler more often that was told to you.  (my disclaimer) Good luck to you—– Lynn – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there… I’m fairly new to this asthma thing; having been diagnosed around two years ago at the age of 38.  I have a quick question….. Everytime I contract a cold (which seems to be too often lately), once it reaches my lungs, it sets me WAY back…takes forever to get thru the cold. Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. Thanks for any advise! Kathy

Response:

Hi there… I’m fairly new to this asthma thing; having been diagnosed around two years ago at the age of 38.  I have a quick question….. Everytime I contract a cold (which seems to be too often lately), once it reaches my lungs, it sets me WAY back…takes forever to get thru the cold. Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. Thanks for any advise! Kathy

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there… I’m fairly new to this asthma thing; having been diagnosed around two years ago at the age of 38.  I have a quick question….. Everytime I contract a cold (which seems to be too often lately), once it reaches my lungs, it sets me WAY back…takes forever to get thru the cold. Is there any asthma medication I can ask my doctor for, just to get me thru the cold?  This last bout started in my sinuses, and I was just praying it wouldn’t reach my lungs, but it has…now I’m coughing like a heavy smoker, and it seems to last an eternity. Thanks for any advise! Kathy

Hi Kathy, What medication are you taking for your asthma? If you are not taking inhaled steroids, you should be. Also Singulair may be helpful to you too. Sinus infections could be the root of your problem. Some of the  "colds" you are experiencing may not actually be "colds" at all,  but inflammation caused  by purulence draining into your lungs from your sinus. What are you doing to try to keep your sinus infections under control? Warm salt water nasal irrigation is really helpful to me. The advice offered by Dr. Murray Grossan MD (ENT on-line consultant) below is definitely worth taking. http://www.ent-consult.com/ http://www.ent-consult.com/abstract.html http://www.ent-consult.com/cough.html You may also want to check the alt. support.sinusitis newsgroup. Cheers, Colleen

Response:

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.

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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:

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

Response:

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

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

Response:

Question:

I am trying to find a way to get Pulmicort. My doctor gave me a sample of about two weeks’ worth. She also gave a prescription for some. I took this to the local CVS and their response, after a day of trying to order it, was that the manufacturer does not supply. Should I try a different chain of pharmacy’s and hope that their response is different or is there something I should know about? Suggestions appreciated. -j "He’s more machine now than man, twisted and evil." –Ben Kenobi, a long time ago.

Response:

I am trying to find a way to get Pulmicort. My doctor gave me a sample of about two weeks’ worth. She also gave a prescription for some. I took this to the local CVS and their response, after a day of trying to order it, was that the manufacturer does not supply. Should I try a different chain of pharmacy’s and hope that their response is different or is there something I should know about? Suggestions appreciated.

I ge it at Eckerd without a problem. Good Luck, Jeff – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – -j "He’s more machine now than man, twisted and evil." –Ben Kenobi, a long time ago.

Response:

I ge it at Eckerd without a problem.

Thanks. I have since contact the doctor again and had the prescription called through at the local Eckerd without an apparent problem. Maybe CVS is just being silly. -j "He’s more machine now than man, twisted and evil." –Ben Kenobi, a long time ago.

Response:

I checked the Walgreen’s website and they have it.  I know CVS and drugstore.com don’t (or don’t list it if it is available). – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am trying to find a way to get Pulmicort. My doctor gave me a sample of about two weeks’ worth. She also gave a prescription for some. I took this to the local CVS and their response, after a day of trying to order it, was that the manufacturer does not supply. Should I try a different chain of pharmacy’s and hope that their response is different or is there something I should know about? Suggestions appreciated. -j "He’s more machine now than man, twisted and evil." –Ben Kenobi, a long time ago.

Response:

Should I try a different chain of pharmacy’s and hope that their response is different or is there something I should know about? Suggestions appreciated.

I just picked up a refill from a local independent pharmacy on the way home from work. "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find."    General Colin Powell

Response:

I thought that Pulmicort was supposed to be available by now in the US.  I have the prescription from the Dr. and now that my son’s full size sample is fast running out, no pharmacy has it yet, but they have all attended the seminar for learning how to dispense it and provide instructions to the patient.  They are all still waiting.  Does anyone know what happened with the availability?  I can get another from the Dr. in the meantime but I’m just curious… Mary-Ellen

I think another responder mention Jan 28 availability in US. I don’t know what’s causing the delay. Here is a link to the US Pulmicort Turbuhaler site (Astra): http://www.pltbhinfo.com/ Pulmicort DPI

Response:

Hi, I was in touch with the Pharmacy before the holidays and was told that the FDA had forced a reformulation of the drug. She said that the drug should be available on Jan 28,1998. Hope this helps. — Regards and God Speed, Gary W. Sandvik

:   : I thought that Pulmicort was supposed to be available by now in the US.  I have : the prescription from the Dr. and now that my son’s full size sample is fast : running out, no pharmacy has it yet, but they have all attended the seminar for : learning how to dispense it and provide instructions to the patient. They are : all still waiting.  Does anyone know what happened with the availability?  I : can get another from the Dr. in the meantime but I’m just curious… : Mary-Ellen : : I think another responder mention Jan 28 availability in US. : I don’t know what’s causing the delay. : : Here is a link to the US Pulmicort Turbuhaler site (Astra): : http://www.pltbhinfo.com/ Pulmicort DPI :

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : : I thought that Pulmicort was supposed to be available by now in the US.  I have : the prescription from the Dr. and now that my son’s full size sample is fast : running out, no pharmacy has it yet, but they have all attended the seminar for : learning how to dispense it and provide instructions to the patient. They are : all still waiting.  Does anyone know what happened with the availability?  I : can get another from the Dr. in the meantime but I’m just curious… : Mary-Ellen : : I think another responder mention Jan 28 availability in US. : I don’t know what’s causing the delay. : : Here is a link to the US Pulmicort Turbuhaler site (Astra): : http://www.pltbhinfo.com/ Pulmicort DPI :

I live in Canada and started using Pulmicort 5 years ago.  It has truly changed the way I live with my asthma.  I have had asthma since 1976 and had tried almost everything on the market. I started using Pulmicort and Rhinocort (for sinusitus and nasal polyps) and I feel like a new person. I hope the FDA will approve this terrific product for your use in the U.S.  (No, I don’t work for Astra) Best of luck to you in the new year. Your northern neighbor.

Response:

I thought that Pulmicort was supposed to be available by now in the US.  I have the prescription from the Dr. and now that my son’s full size sample is fast running out, no pharmacy has it yet, but they have all attended the seminar for learning how to dispense it and provide instructions to the patient.  They are all still waiting.  Does anyone know what happened with the availability?  I can get another from the Dr. in the meantime but I’m just curious… Mary-Ellen

Response:

Question:

hey everyone… my doctor finally switched me off of effexor xr to welbrutrin sr… and now i have little bits of me that keep going numb, of i keep getting little jolts of electricity through my body. although these are not painful they are disconcerting. any suggestions? -will

the jolts of electricity sound like Effexor withdrawal. They will disappear with time. Chip

Response:

:hey everyone… :my doctor finally switched me off of effexor xr to welbrutrin sr… : :and now i have little bits of me that keep going numb, of i keep getting :little jolts of electricity through my body. although these are not painful :they are disconcerting. : :any suggestions? :-will Dear Will, Did you stop effexor cold turkey? Effexor is known for withdrawals. Electric shock type sensations can be withdrawal symptoms. There is also the possibility that this is a side-effect of wellbutrin. It can be hard to know what is causing this being you stopped taking one med and started a new med all at the same time. What dose of wellbutrin did you start at? Why are you taking the wellbutrin, anxiety and/or depression? You might want to give your doctor a call about this, maybe something can be done to alleviate this symptom. Take care! Jackie ~*~Confusion never stops, closing walls and ticking clocks Come back and take you home, I could not stop, that you now know Come out upon my seas, curse missed opportunities Am I a part of the cure, or am I part of the disease~*~      ~Coldplay~

Response:

hey everyone… my doctor finally switched me off of effexor xr to welbrutrin sr… and now i have little bits of me that keep going numb, of i keep getting little jolts of electricity through my body. although these are not painful they are disconcerting. any suggestions? -will

Hi Will –  a lot has been written about Wellbutrin (bupropion) on this newgroup over the years. In general, it’s thought that Wellbutrin is not a good med for treating anxiety disorders. One or two people here have done ok on it, but it’s a stimulating anti-depressant, and it has a lot of side-effects, which include increased anxiety – it sounds as though that might be what you’re experiencing in those symptoms. They could also possibly be related to the switch from Effexor (venlafaxine). Are you taking a benzo? That could help to alleviate the symptoms – but you need to talk to your doctor again, I think. -David-

Response:

hey everyone… my doctor finally switched me off of effexor xr to welbrutrin sr… and now i have little bits of me that keep going numb, of i keep getting little jolts of electricity through my body. although these are not painful they are disconcerting. any suggestions? -will

Response:

Question:

Has anyone heard of Zoloft withdrawal lasting longer than a couple of weeks? I was taking 200 to 250 mg Zoloft daily (increased during PMS) and then switched to Celexa. I was frustrated with neither of them helping my depression, so I unwisely abruptly discontinued the medication. My withdrawal symptoms ranged from moderate to severe…initially, I experienced extreme agitation, anxiety, crying, uncharacteristic rage, and formication (sensation that bugs were crawling on me). With the help of my doctor, I restarted a low dose of Celexa (I had been on 20 mg prior to this) and tapered off–but still quicker than I should have because I’m stubborn. The main problems that persisted for a couple of weeks were numbness and tingling in my arms and legs, and then spontaneous pain or muscle spasms in my legs. (Pretty darn painful). That and gastro-intestinal distress. My doctor felt that most of this was actually withdrawal from the Zoloft, not Celexa. She felt that the Celexa had prevented me from going into Zoloft withdrawal, but when I discontinued Celexa, the Zoloft withdrawal kicked in. From what I’ve read about other people’s experiences with Zoloft withdrawal, my symptoms do appear to match theirs. I had been taking Zoloft (at different doses) for about 4 years. I tried other medications during that time, but I was unable to tolerate most of them. I am very sensitive to medications and tend to have side effects with just about everything I take, usually to the point where I don’t want to take anything. Back to the symptoms–after 2-1/2 weeks, these symptoms diminished. 3-1/2 weeks after the initial discontinuation, however, I had a flare-up of gastro-intenstinal distress that lasted a day or two. Then, 4-1/2 weeks after the initial discontinuation (maybe 2 weeks since stopping the mild tapering-off) I experienced the leg pain, numbness, tingling along with severe stomach cramps and such. I did not expect to still be experiencing withdrawal symptoms, so I’m confused. Am I imagining things? Is this something else? Thank you for any help you can provide.

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Question:

ok, so here is my story went to my psych three weeks ago he told me to lower my dose of buspar from 40 mgs/day to 20mgs/day, then after 2 weeks go off it all together am still taking the zoloft, 100 mgs/day and the lorazepam, .5 mgs/day, sometimes 1 mg/day neways, did that wrong thing to do yesterday aft, had about 5-6 panic attacks in a matter of 2 hours shitty shitty shitty thought 4 sure i was going to die tried everything possible, but the damn things kept coming back finally got ahold of my family doc, after trying numerous times to get ahold of my psych he told me to go back on the buspar and start with 10 mgs/day, but hell with that am going to take 20 mgs/day after yesterday, don’t want that to happen again hopefully today will b alot better scared the shit outta my 6 yr old and my fiance will let you all know tomorrow how i did today later…..

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Sounds like the BuSpar was augmenting the anti-panic effects of the Zoloft. Chip

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ok, so here is my story went to my psych three weeks ago he told me to lower my dose of buspar from 40 mgs/day to 20mgs/day, then after 2 weeks go off it all together am still taking the zoloft, 100 mgs/day and the lorazepam, .5 mgs/day, sometimes 1 mg/day neways, did that wrong thing to do yesterday aft, had about 5-6 panic attacks in a matter of 2 hours shitty shitty shitty thought 4 sure i was going to die tried everything possible, but the damn things kept coming back finally got ahold of my family doc, after trying numerous times to get ahold of my psych he told me to go back on the buspar and start with 10 mgs/day, but hell with that am going to take 20 mgs/day after yesterday, don’t want that to happen again hopefully today will b alot better scared the shit outta my 6 yr old and my fiance will let you all know tomorrow how i did today later…..

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:he told me to go back on the buspar and start with 10 mgs/day, but hell with :that :am going to take 20 mgs/day :after yesterday, don’t want that to happen again :hopefully today will b alot better :scared the shit outta my 6 yr old and my fiance :will let you all know tomorrow how i did today :later….. Hi Joe, I would talk to your psych doctor before you reinstate the Buspar. Buspar is NOT a med for panic disorder, it is usually ineffective in treating panic attacks. I recall a few weeks ago that you`ve been trying to get off increased anxiety could very well be from that. How long have you been on Ativan and why are you trying to get off of it? I think it is very important that you talk to your psych doctor today about what happened over the weekend. Jackie ~*~Life was so much easier when your clothes didn’t match and boys had cooties~*~

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ok, so here is my story went to my psych three weeks ago he told me to lower my dose of buspar from 40 mgs/day to 20mgs/day, then after 2 weeks go off it all together am still taking the zoloft, 100 mgs/day and the lorazepam, .5 mgs/day, sometimes 1 mg/day neways, did that wrong thing to do yesterday aft, had about 5-6 panic attacks in a matter of 2 hours shitty shitty shitty thought 4 sure i was going to die tried everything possible, but the damn things kept coming back finally got ahold of my family doc, after trying numerous times to get ahold of my psych he told me to go back on the buspar and start with 10 mgs/day, but hell with that am going to take 20 mgs/day after yesterday, don’t want that to happen again hopefully today will b alot better scared the shit outta my 6 yr old and my fiance will let you all know tomorrow how i did today later…..

If you have panic attacks and are diagnosed with Panic Disorder I would skip the Buspar if I were you. It rarely if ever works for PD and only sometimes for mild to moderate GAD. IMHO and exceptions to the rule notwithstanding this is a med we can do without. However, your Zoloft dose can be raised and, perhaps more importantly, so can your lorazepam. You should of course run this by your doctor (even if he prescribed you Buspar for panic which is reason enough to switch pdocs) but it might be a good idea to take lorazepam at a regular daily dose as well (starting with 1 mg four times daily, see what that gets you and take it from there) to avoid panic attacks connected with interdose anxiety (lorazepam is a short working benzo, it works for an average of 6 hours). Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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okay, so yesterday went well took the 10mgs of buspar in the am and another 10 in the pm my psych told me that if i started having problems again, that i could go back on it he also told me that the buspar boosts, or whatever, the zoloft i don’t want to go off the lorazepam, by any means, but the docs r hounding me too but they work, so y should i hopefully 2day will b just as good as yesterday, if not better thanx for all the input guys oh yeah, and by the way, joe isn’t my name, it is audrey it is just the way we have our email set up later…… audrey

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ok, so here is my story went to my psych three weeks ago he told me to lower my dose of buspar from 40 mgs/day to 20mgs/day, then after 2 weeks go off it all together am still taking the zoloft, 100 mgs/day and the lorazepam, .5 mgs/day, sometimes 1 mg/day neways, did that wrong thing to do yesterday aft, had about 5-6 panic attacks in a matter of 2 hours shitty shitty shitty thought 4 sure i was going to die tried everything possible, but the damn things kept coming back finally got ahold of my family doc, after trying numerous times to get ahold of my psych he told me to go back on the buspar and start with 10 mgs/day, but hell with that am going to take 20 mgs/day after yesterday, don’t want that to happen again hopefully today will b alot better scared the shit outta my 6 yr old and my fiance will let you all know tomorrow how i did today later….. If you have panic attacks and are diagnosed with Panic Disorder I would skip the Buspar if I were you. It rarely if ever works for PD and only sometimes for mild to moderate GAD. IMHO and exceptions to the rule notwithstanding this is a med we can do without. However, your Zoloft dose can be raised and, perhaps more importantly, so can your lorazepam. You should of course run this by your doctor (even if he prescribed you Buspar for panic which is reason enough to switch pdocs) but it might be a good idea to take lorazepam at a regular daily dose as well (starting with 1 mg four times daily, see what that gets you and take it from there) to avoid panic attacks connected with interdose anxiety (lorazepam is a short working benzo, it works for an average of 6 hours). Philip

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Hi to everyone! Good news about me, I think I am on my way out of depression Two days ago, I felt very bad, and anxious because of the effexor withdrawal. Desperately, I took 30mg mianserin for the sedative effect to sleep. (Last summer, my ex-doctor prescribed me 10mg mianserin to be taken one hour before bedtime. It was for the sedative effect to help sleep, not for antidepressant purpose. Mianserin can be sedative at low doses, but its antidepressant effect begins at 30mg daily!) The next day, (yesterday) I felt a bit drowsy, but I felt energetic in a way, and the anxiety was gone. So, I asked my doctor if it would be OK to try mianserin at 30mg/day, and he said: "Go ahead!" Today, I’m nothing but depressed! My sleep improved dramatically. I did not have those vivid dreams caused by effexor. My sleep was not disturbed. I don’t feel any anxiety, and I could go through the day with 8 hours of sleep without taking a nap. This is the first time since a very very very long time. I just can’t believe it! I never thought of taking mianserin as an antidepressant agent, because it is very sedative. I never could imagine that a sedative antidepressant could be such a wonder drug for me. I hope this does not fade! If I go on like this, I can find the energy and the courage to finish my school, and go ahead with my life. I am very hopeful this time, wish me luck best wishes for everyone out there, cem

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi to everyone! Good news about me, I think I am on my way out of depression Two days ago, I felt very bad, and anxious because of the effexor withdrawal. Desperately, I took 30mg mianserin for the sedative effect to sleep. (Last summer, my ex-doctor prescribed me 10mg mianserin to be taken one hour before bedtime. It was for the sedative effect to help sleep, not for antidepressant purpose. Mianserin can be sedative at low doses, but its antidepressant effect begins at 30mg daily!) The next day, (yesterday) I felt a bit drowsy, but I felt energetic in a way, and the anxiety was gone. So, I asked my doctor if it would be OK to try mianserin at 30mg/day, and he said: "Go ahead!" Today, I’m nothing but depressed! My sleep improved dramatically. I did not have those vivid dreams caused by effexor. My sleep was not disturbed. I don’t feel any anxiety, and I could go through the day with 8 hours of sleep without taking a nap. This is the first time since a very very very long time. I just can’t believe it! I never thought of taking mianserin as an antidepressant agent, because it is very sedative. I never could imagine that a sedative antidepressant could be such a wonder drug for me. I hope this does not fade! If I go on like this, I can find the energy and the courage to finish my school, and go ahead with my life. I am very hopeful this time, wish me luck best wishes for everyone out there, cem

Very wonderful news!!  Good for you, Cem.  Thanks for the wonderful post! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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Question:

Thanks to everyone for the replies….. I’ve had lots of dizziness as part of my anxiety, but it’s just since the first Zoloft that I noticed this tendency to get dizzy when I watch something moving fast. It’s very concerning to me in that I always thought of dizziness to be ear-related, but this appears to be caused by some connection with my eyes. My other dizziness that I had before this is also strange, it seems that as long as I keep moving, I’m OK, but the minute I stop moving, I get dizzy. It’s almost as if all of the energy from my nervous system being used to move me around as I walk or run suddenly smashes into my balance system the minute I stop moving (I know thats ridiculous but I’m just using it as an analogy) The other amazing thing is that both my doctor and my therapist told me that zoloft would most likely make it hard to sleep, but the opposite has occured, since taking my first zoloft a few days ago I am increidbly tired (and dizzy). So part of me wants to run and have more medical tests, but then again I’ve been through that whole routine many times before. Thanks again to everyone for the replies. It really helps knowing there are other people out there that are going through this.

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. That is very good. Most doctors start their patients on 25 or 50 mgs and it is really better to *start low and go slow* in order to avoid or minimize initial Zoloft side effects.

Hi, I was given 50mgs for two weeks then on to 100. I believe I have a bite problem from clenching my teeth during this time. I see an endodontist next week to see if it’s a major crack way down in at least two teeth or the nerves that have been damaged as a result of this horrible clenching. I also had the *worst* nightmares. Can’t say for sure if it was the med (and yes I was really dizzy too) but it gradually went away after stopping it. I am, however, left with problem with my teeth, my dentist says to hope for a root canal as that would be the most simple repair of the possible ones. Great littlebear

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Hi Steve, I had dry eyes real bad..kind of like dry mouth and yawns. My eye sight changed while taking zoloft and ive talked to another person that that happened with too…you no your body best and if you think it is a side effect then bring it up with your doctor…it does sound like it will get better if that’s the case. once again best wishes charla

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks to everyone for the replies….. I’ve had lots of dizziness as part of my anxiety, but it’s just since the first Zoloft that I noticed this tendency to get dizzy when I watch something moving fast. It’s very concerning to me in that I always thought of dizziness to be ear-related, but this appears to be caused by some connection with my eyes. My other dizziness that I had before this is also strange, it seems that as long as I keep moving, I’m OK, but the minute I stop moving, I get dizzy. It’s almost as if all of the energy from my nervous system being used to move me around as I walk or run suddenly smashes into my balance system the minute I stop moving (I know thats ridiculous but I’m just using it as an analogy) The other amazing thing is that both my doctor and my therapist told me that zoloft would most likely make it hard to sleep, but the opposite has occured, since taking my first zoloft a few days ago I am increidbly tired (and dizzy). So part of me wants to run and have more medical tests, but then again I’ve been through that whole routine many times before. Thanks again to everyone for the replies. It really helps knowing there are other people out there that are going through this.

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Thanks to everyone for the replies….. I’ve had lots of dizziness as part of my anxiety, but it’s just since the first Zoloft that I noticed this tendency to get dizzy when I watch something moving fast. It’s very concerning to me in that I always thought of dizziness to be ear-related, but this appears to be caused by some connection with my eyes.

There are nerve tract connections between the eyes and the inner ear, and both tell your brain about the orientation of your body in relation to the environment. Ever watch a movie of a roller-coaster and get dizzy and nauseous? The Zoloft may be temporarily accentuating this reaction. It will pass. My other dizziness that I had before this is also strange, it seems that as long as I keep moving, I’m OK, but the minute I stop moving, I get dizzy.

As long as you’re walking you know where your feet are. If you stand still, your anxiety can over-ride the sensory input from your legs that tells your brain you are upright. This results in a sensation of dizziness, and more specically the feeling that you will fall down. I have been so anxious at times that I was unable to just stand. I had to lean against a table or wall. It’s almost as if all of the energy from my nervous system being used to move me around as I walk or run suddenly smashes into my balance system the minute I stop moving (I know thats ridiculous but I’m just using it as an analogy) The other amazing thing is that both my doctor and my therapist told me that zoloft would most likely make it hard to sleep, but the opposite has occured, since taking my first zoloft a few days ago I am increidbly tired (and dizzy).

I was told to take Zoloft in he AM since it can be stimulating and lead to insomnia for the first several days. It can also cause fatigue, although I have never experienced this side effect. So part of me wants to run and have more medical tests, but then again I’ve been through that whole routine many times before.

I think there are physiological explanations for our symptoms of dizziness, but they are not due to organic disease, only anxiety. Thanks again to everyone for the replies. It really helps knowing there are other people out there that are going through this.

Various types of "dizziness" are very common in people with anxiety disorders. Chip Before you buy.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks to everyone for the replies….. I’ve had lots of dizziness as part of my anxiety, but it’s just since the first Zoloft that I noticed this tendency to get dizzy when I watch something moving fast. It’s very concerning to me in that I always thought of dizziness to be ear-related, but this appears to be caused by some connection with my eyes. My other dizziness that I had before this is also strange, it seems that as long as I keep moving, I’m OK, but the minute I stop moving, I get dizzy. It’s almost as if all of the energy from my nervous system being used to move me around as I walk or run suddenly smashes into my balance system the minute I stop moving (I know thats ridiculous but I’m just using it as an analogy) The other amazing thing is that both my doctor and my therapist told me that zoloft would most likely make it hard to sleep, but the opposite has occured, since taking my first zoloft a few days ago I am increidbly tired (and dizzy). So part of me wants to run and have more medical tests, but then again I’ve been through that whole routine many times before. Thanks again to everyone for the replies. It really helps knowing there are other people out there that are going through this.

Hi Steve, Dizziness is my main anxiety symptom too. I also get dizzy sometimes when I am on the computer and I am scrolling through web pages very quickly. It seems to happen when I am very tired. So I try to scroll slowly and take frequent breaks from the computer. Do you experience dizziness when you lay down at night, it feels like you are on a boat on rough seas? When my anxiety was bad this happened everynight, I hated it. There is no quarantee that your sleep will be messed up while on zoloft. Some people do have problems sleeping while others claim their sleep has improved. Your incredible fatigue and dizziness should subside with time. It sounds like you are doing pretty good though. Take care Jackie

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I started on the same dose and felt dizzy too some of the time.  I am up too 100mg without any more sid effects.  i use too be sooooo scared of it but i am actually doing very well. The side effects do go awaya after a few days . I was always scared when they would increase it but then found that it was no big deal.  I am usually very sensitive to meds.  I am really glad to be on it.  My anxiety has really lifted.  I am doing so much more now and can actually enjoy some things now. Good Luck!

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My doctor told me to start Zoloft for anxiety/panic by cutting a 25mg pill in half and taking a half a pill for a week and then start on a whole pill a day. The day of the first half-pill dosage I felt fine (and the doctor said I wouldn’t have any side effects for a few days), but that evening, while watching some animation on my computer screen, I started to get very dizzy as I watched the screen. It seems everytime my eyes are exposed to something in fast motion, I get dizzy. Is this a possible side effect of zoloft on such a low dose, or do I have yet another thing to worry about?

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My doctor told me to start Zoloft for anxiety/panic by cutting a 25mg pill in half and taking a half a pill for a week and then start on a whole pill a day. The day of the first half-pill dosage I felt fine (and the doctor said I wouldn’t have any side effects for a few days), but that evening, while watching some animation on my computer screen, I started to get very dizzy as I watched the screen. It seems everytime my eyes are exposed to something in fast motion, I get dizzy. Is this a possible side effect of zoloft on such a low dose, or do I have yet another thing to worry about?

Hi Steve, Dizziness is a fairly common side-effect of Zoloft.  While it is an uncomfortable side-effect, it is not dangerous and should pass with time. Of course if it is concerning you don`t hesitate to talk to your doctor. Take care. Jackie

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My doctor told me to start Zoloft for anxiety/panic by cutting a 25mg pill in half and taking a half a pill for a week and then start on a whole pill a day.

That is very good. Most doctors start their patients on 25 or 50 mgs and it is really better to *start low and go slow* in order to avoid or minimize initial Zoloft side effects. The day of the first half-pill dosage I felt fine (and the doctor said I wouldn’t have any side effects for a few days), but that evening, while watching some animation on my computer screen, I started to get very dizzy as I watched the screen. It seems everytime my eyes are exposed to something in fast motion, I get dizzy. Is this a possible side effect of zoloft on such a low dose, or do I have yet another thing to worry about?

The way I see it there are three possibilities: – It’s just the old anxiety (did you experience dizziness as an anziety symprom?) – It’s a Zoloft side effect which is very well possible. Some people are more sensitive to these meds than others. In this case you might consider asking for a benzo like Xanax on the side (not a bad idea anyway while weaning on an AD). – Maybe you are so focused on possible side effects that it has becomne a self-fulfilling prophecy IMO you should ask for a benzo on the side and then wait for a few weeks if possible and see how it goes. This is much too early to have any idea about Zoloft being a good med for you or not. I hope it will be. Philip

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HI Steve, I didn’t know they came in 25mgs..I split my 50 in half…It would be cheaper the pharmacist says to buy the 100 and split that in fourths.But I’m so sensitive to change that I stick with what I know. I experienced dizziness the first day starting Zoloft at 12.5 mgs and the doc told me that it was not enough med in my system to have side effects. It was anxiety..I was looking for the side effects.I had increased symptoms of anxiety for the first month starting on Zoloft and it was because I was so anxious about taking it. I told myself everyday I can stop taking this anytime I choose and the dosage I’m taking is so little that these things I’m feeling are the result of my fear of meds and yesterday I was fine and today I will be to…I’m going to give this med time to see if it will help. You can check with your doctor anytime day or night…or call your pharmacist for reassurance..and try to be honest with yourself..Is this anxiety from taking a medicine. Charla

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My doctor told me to start Zoloft for anxiety/panic by cutting a 25mg pill in half and taking a half a pill for a week and then start on a whole pill a day. The day of the first half-pill dosage I felt fine (and the doctor said I wouldn’t have any side effects for a few days), but that evening, while watching some animation on my computer screen, I started to get very dizzy as I watched the screen. It seems everytime my eyes are exposed to something in fast motion, I get dizzy. Is this a possible side effect of zoloft on such a low dose, or do I have yet another thing to worry about?

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