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

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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

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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

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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

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– 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

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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

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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

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– 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

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Question:

Looking for another (back-up)source for generic V, probably a reliable Indian source.  Any suggestions out there with regard to quality/price/shipping?  Medicapharma.com, Importeddrugs.com are a couple I’ve seen in this NG, any thoughts on these companies? reg, fcr

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i’ve had good reults with contrademedical.com….check ‘em out…a number of people here have used them successfully Murray

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Looking for another (back-up)source for generic V, probably a reliable Indian source.  Any suggestions out there with regard to quality/price/shipping?  Medicapharma.com, Importeddrugs.com are a couple I’ve seen in this NG, any thoughts on these companies? reg, fcr

I’ve had good luck with Shop Rx online: http://www.shoprxonline.com/ — Regards, Steve Saling aka The Garlic Dude Gilroy, CA The Garlic Capital of The World http://www.pulsareng.com/

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Looking for another (back-up)source for generic V, probably a reliable Indian source.  Any suggestions out there with regard to quality/price/shipping?  Medicapharma.com, Importeddrugs.com are a couple I’ve seen in this NG, any thoughts on these companies? reg, fcr

Here you go…I’ve used them with no hastles and GREAT prices. They don’t have generic Uprima though. http://www.overturepharmacy.com:8080/index.jsp RON

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Question:

I quit all daiary products may 1 1997 and my asthma is almost gone. What does anybody know anything aabout dairy foods and asthma? Harlan Lee

If your asthma stays in remission, it would indicate that you were/are allergic to milk.  I don’t know of any other connection that milk could have with asthma other than allergic reaction. Yana

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<<I quit all daiary products may 1 1997 and my asthma is almost gone. What does anybody know anything aabout dairy foods and asthma? Harlan Lee

i went to an accupuncturist/holistic medicine specialist for my allergies and asthma. he strongly believes that the high amount of antibiotics given to cows is a bad thing for our immune system and suggested i stop dairy. i have done this, but also stayed on serevent and flovent. connection? don’t know. i do note that the one or two times i strayed and recently had dairy, that i felt some tightness. good health to all…

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I quit all daiary products may 1 1997 and my asthma is almost gone. What does anybody know anything aabout dairy foods and asthma? Harlan Lee

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I quit all daiary products may 1 1997 and my asthma is almost gone. What does anybody know anything aabout dairy foods and asthma? Harlan Lee

This could be a coincidence; I’m not aware of a relationship between asthma and dairy products. Also a 4-month remission is not proof that your asthma is cured. A 12-month remission would be more convincing. There is an article indicating some outgrow their asthma. See http://www.ama-assn.org/special/asthma/library/scan/outgrow.htm American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine          Vol. 155, pp. 1267-1272, Apr. 1997          Adult Patients May Outgrow Their Asthma: A 25-Year Follow-up Study

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Question:

Is there any research indicating that Singulair can have a beneficial effect for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease? I’ve asked my doctor, an internist with a subspecialty in pulmonology, about this, and he was doubtful that the drug would be helpful to me. Since the various "classic" asthma meds are used in treating COPD symptoms, it seems strange that the anti-leukotrienes (and Singulair, in particular) have not been recommended by the drug mfrs. [I posted this question to this list several months ago. I'm asking it again, on the outside chance that there is possibly some new data available.] — Neal Blank http://p3.net/~nealb/

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I am just taking a guess from what I know about Singulair.  I am sure If I am way off base here aleast one of you will correct me.  Singulair, goes after the chemical that at the root of the problem causes the bronchial spasms.  By stopping the spasms there will be less inflammation, in turn lessing the asthma attacks.  Bronchistis, and emphysema are due to inflamed bronchial tubes, but are not caused by the spasms that causes the inflammations of asthma, so Singulair will not help.  I am not sure if I am right but, this may (or may not)help.

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Is there any research indicating that Singulair can have a beneficial effect for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease? I’ve asked my doctor, an internist with a subspecialty in pulmonology, about this, and he was doubtful that the drug would be helpful to me. Since the various "classic" asthma meds are used in treating COPD symptoms, it seems strange that the anti-leukotrienes (and Singulair, in particular) have not been recommended by the drug mfrs. [I posted this question to this list several months ago. I'm asking it again, on the outside chance that there is possibly some new data available.]

No I don’t think there is any data available. I note that in the UK the drug is only licensed for asthma. However, I have COPD with a ‘reversible componant’, which means that I respond to corticosteroid therapy with an improvement in PF and FEV1. I also respond to bronchodilators. Call this asthma if you like, and yes I have been perscribed Singulair and yes it seems to have definitely improved things for me. I have now just finished the first months treatment and the improvement I felt within days of taking it seems to have been maintained. Yesterday was the *first day for over ten years* that I have not used a single puff of Ventolin If you can persuade them to let you have it I would say it is worth a try. Regards Rob Remove the spam from address if replying by email

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I am just taking a guess from what I know about Singulair.  I am sure If I am way off base here aleast one of you will correct me.  Singulair, goes after the chemical that at the root of the problem causes the bronchial spasms.  By stopping the spasms there will be less inflammation, in turn lessing the asthma attacks.  Bronchistis, and emphysema are due to inflamed bronchial tubes, but are not caused by the spasms that causes the inflammations of asthma, so Singulair will not help.  I am not sure if I am right but, this may (or may not)help.

Not wrong, but an oversimplification. Yes, LTD is a potent broncho-constrictor. BUt it appears to be having at least mild anti-inflammatory effects at least in mild to moderate asthmatics.  THe reasons arent clear yet, but bronchospasm can lead to secondary release of mediators (prostaglandin D, Thromboxane A, cytokines, etc) which ARE inflammatory. If LTD even partially inhibits the release of such mediators from mast cells, eosinophils etc, it would have anti-inflammatory effects. BUT – *I* don’t know of any evidence that LTD is a precipitating agent in COPD.  If it’s not a major player in that disease, SIngulair/Accolate’s impact is likely to be far less than in asthma.  To date, there are no scientific studies of the question.  Both LTE and LTB (a leukotriene NOT targeted by Accolate/Singulair) have been shown to be elevated in COPD, but whether reducing that elevation has any effect in the disease doesnt appear to have been studied.  IF LTB is importand, COPD may be better treated with Zyflo than with the LT-RAs.

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Question:

Hello, I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success. Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help.

Gaba doesn’t pass the blood-brain barrier and anyway it’s not a *lack of Gaba* that’s causing PD. I would suggest trying a benzodiazepine like Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium which, unlike the antidepressants, *do* work on the Gaba system. Benzos will cause *dependence* (as do many ADs and a myriad of other meds) for which reason some doctors won’t prescribe them, confusing dependence and addiction. Benzos are first choice meds for panic and dependence means you shouldn’t stop taking them suddenly but by way of a slow taper. Philip — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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:I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. :I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are :returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having :much success. Welcome to ASAPM! Sorry you are having a setback. That`s par for the course when it comes to living with an anxiety disorder GABA hasn`t been proven having any luck with it. oes anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can :recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative :approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack f sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help. When you ask about the brain recovering from 10 year antidepressant use, do you think your brain was hurt by using zoloft for 10 years? Let me assure you that what you are experiencing is quite normal for people with anxiety disorders, meds or not. Setbacks after the cessation of medication is unfortunately…. too common. I urge you to seek professional help as soon as possible. If you are very adverse to taking another antidepressant, than ask your doctor about benzodiazepines. If you are against meds period, then look into cognitive behavioral therapy. It is the most effective therapy for anxiety disorders. Here are two informative links on CBT: http://panicdisorder.about.com/cs/therapycbt/ http://www.cognitivetherapy.com/ Here`s a link to a great website on anxiety disorders, there is a wealth of information at this site. http://panicdisorder.about.com/index.htm?once=true&COB=home&PID=2791 Take care Jackie ~*~My grandfather always said that living is like licking honey off a thorn~*~ — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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 nothing perfect in life, the zoloft was effective enough to eliminate your anxiety and you (might) never had to learn how to deal with your disorder, so if for some reason you have to quite taking it your anxiety disorder can come back   if you are genetically prone to a anxiety disorder you have to work a lot harder than normal people to help deal with anxiety and this would be to learn many different coping techniques along with medication as needed and there very well could be a time in your life where medication is the only effective answer and possibly a time when you might be able to work to diminish many of the symptoms without med Jim     Hello,   I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success.   Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help.

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Hello, I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success. Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help.

First of al : Welcome to this group it can be a great help I can see your problem,but (this maybe doesn’t is the info you are looking for) I think the problem isn’t the intake of zoloft for 10 years. When I read your symptoms I can only assume your PAD isn’t under control without medication. I don’t think your brain needs to recover from Zoloft. Jackie gave you some excellent links. Unfortenatly PAD isn’t a disorder that disappears. With very few people it is a temporary thing. Of course you are free to live without medication but then ,like Elliot said, there is a great need for therapy (CBT) so you can control your thinking. You can post here all you want for info and support. We all know what you are talking about ! Take care from Anna — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Laura, I would like to know your experience on zoloft as I am considering it. I deal with a lot of anxiety and probably mini PA’s on a daily basis. I take klonopin as needed, and boy it makes me good. chaz

Hello, I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success. Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help. — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help.

I am coming off of Serzone after using it for at least 10 years. I came off the Serzone very slowly and have medical supervision on this. I have been told by my Dr. that if I was to come off the medication too quickly, I would probably trigger an episode of deep depression. My experience so far now that I am off Serzone completely for 3 days is that my tension migraines are a wee be worse but my head has lost much of its "fog." This trade-off is worth it for me but anxiety may in the end cause me to have to go back on meds. Good luck Ron — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Long term use of the SSRIs presents a lot of problems.  It doesn’t usually work forever and at a certain point they need to be stopped. As an episodic problem panic disorder probably is going to do best with an episodic treatment.  Withdrawal after long term use can be much more severe than you describe, and people need to be aware that withdrawal induced suicidal ideation is a problem — as is the induction of new symptoms of anxiety and panic that were not present previously.  Zaps are often confused with panic attacks.  So is withdrawal related visual lag/vertigo and withdrawal related nausea. All that aside, what can one do?  It seems that when a person stops a SSRI, they are relatively serotonin depleted.  My strategy to boos serotonin on the supply side is to prescribe l-tryptophan at a dose of 1000 mg twice daily — to be taken on an empty stomach with a bit of sugar only (juice, soda crackers, etc.)  Tryptophan is converted to serotonin in the brain.  I avoid 5-HTP because it is converted into serotonin to a large extent outside of the brain and this can potentially cause the same sort of cardiac problems that phen-fen caused.  Taking the tryptophan with SAM-e  200 to 400 mg can boost serotonin synthesis even further.  If you have a prior history of manic episodes, avoid the SAM-e. Some of my patients have found significant relief from SSRI/Zoloft withdrawal using this strategy. Stuart Shipko, M.D. Panic Disorders Institute http://www.algy.com/pdi — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Hello, I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success. Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help. Hi Laura, It sounds like the Zoloft was controlling your anxiety disorder, and after you stopped it, the panic attacks returned. I’d restart the Zoloft. I’ve been on Zoloft for over 10 years, primarily for recurrant depression. In the past when I have discontinued the Zoloft, my depression returns. Chip — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Welcome to the group Laura.  Maybe you should talk to your doctor about going back on Zoloft or another med.  So sorry about the way this disorder is affecting you.  :-(  I’m weaning onto Celexa, but it’s only been 2 weeks so I’m not much help there.  I think you’ll find lots of supportive people here.  Please take care. Hugs, Di   Hello,   I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success.   Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help.

Response:

Welcome, Laura!!   I’m sorry you are experiencing this again.  There is no reason you can’t resume your Zoloft if it helped you before, and you need it.  I don’t think you are ‘recovering’ from 10 years of anti-depressant use…I think you are just plain suffering from an anxiety disorder.  It’s really OK to take meds if you need them, Laura.  A diabetic needs insulin…someone with anxiety or depression also needs meds.  It’s the same thing.   If I were you, I would contact the doctor and start something again.   This can cause you other health problems if gone untreated. Healing hugs, Gigglz   Hello,   I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success.   Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help.

Response:

Hello, I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success. Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help.

Response:

Hello, Laura, and welcome. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off = it for 1 year. … Now panic attacks are returning in full force.

It may be that you could discuss going back on the Zoloft, with your doctor or psychiatrist. If it helped you then, it will probably help you now. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to = diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight.

I’m so sorry to hear this! Laura, there is really no need to suffer when a medication exists that can help you. Please talk to your doctor about resuming the Zoloft! xxoo Anne — The charter is available at:  http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

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Hi, Laura, Welcome to ASAPM!!!  Why make yourself suffer when going back on Zoloft could reduce or eliminate the anxiety and its symptoms. smiles, Elise   Hello,   I am new to this group and hope to find some support for my panic attacks. I used zoloft for 10 years to control panic, and have been off it for 1 year. (I tapered off very slowly over the course of a year.) Now panic attacks are returning in full force. I am trying to control them with gaba, but not having much success.   Does anyone have any thoughts or information on wjether the brain can recover after 10 years of anti-depressant use? Or suggestions for alternative approaches. I am desperate because my anxiety is leading to diahrea, lack of sleep, loss of weight. Thanks for any help.

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Question:

Hi all,   I am currently on 150 mg effexor xr and am actually doing well. Effexor is the first antidepressant I took that seemed to make a difference. Based on that – I am happy with it. On the other hand, I can’t shake the feeling that I am living on borrowed time. I have read way too many accounts of the nightmares that many people have gone through withdrawing from the drug. Every morning when I take the pill I have a momentary twinge – like what am I doing to myself? Will it be worth it in the end? Does any other effexor user live with this vague sense of impending trouble? Paradoxically, when I started effexor I was too depressed to really care much about the withdrawal symptoms but now that I am less depressed I am starting to think about the future more and I see effexor withdrawal as a roadblock I have to overcome sooner or later before I’m ever really free from depression. -scattered

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, I am currently on 150 mg effexor xr and am actually doing well. Effexor is the first antidepressant I took that seemed to make a difference. Based on that – I am happy with it. On the other hand, I can’t shake the feeling that I am living on borrowed time. I have read way too many accounts of the nightmares that many people have gone through withdrawing from the drug. Every morning when I take the pill I have a momentary twinge – like what am I doing to myself? Will it be worth it in the end? Does any other effexor user live with this vague sense of impending trouble? Paradoxically, when I started effexor I was too depressed to really care much about the withdrawal symptoms but now that I am less depressed I am starting to think about the future more and I see effexor withdrawal as a roadblock I have to overcome sooner or later before I’m ever really free from depression. -scattered

hi scattered… i was just as nervous when i started taking effexor but soon came to think of it as a vitamin for my brain… i’m switching to wellbutrin (well, refer to my current post), and am now withdrawing from effexor.  i was on 150mg. a day, i took 1 pill at lunch and 1 before bed… for the past three days i’ve just taken 1 pill a day and i have been waiting for the reactions on withdrawal that i’ve read about… but so far (knock on wood), i’ve had none.  i had a bad day at work and had to go cry for a few minutes – but i can’t tell whether that was because my serotonin levels dropped or just because i was stressed and having a bad day… other than that i haven’t noticed the difference yet.  my doc said i was supposed to taper and be off it within a week, with an overlap of the start of the new antidepressant i’d be taking… which seems fast compared to what i’ve read here about the length of time to come off one drug.  i say relax, and let your body react in its own way… if you’re feeling better then just be grateful for that! unfortunately for me effexor just made me sleep all the time and get forgetful, thus the change. good luck, amelie

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 I was on effexor (375mg) for two years and gradually came off it to go onto another anti depressant.  I had to go ‘cold turkey’ for 2 weeks before going on another drug.  I experienced dizziness and flu like symptoms for a few days, but nothing as bad as coming off cigarettes, so do not worry, some people may experience little or no side effects coming off this medication.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all,   I am currently on 150 mg effexor xr and am actually doing well. Effexor is the first antidepressant I took that seemed to make a difference. Based on that – I am happy with it. On the other hand, I can’t shake the feeling that I am living on borrowed time. I have read way too many accounts of the nightmares that many people have gone through withdrawing from the drug. Every morning when I take the pill I have a momentary twinge – like what am I doing to myself? Will it be worth it in the end? Does any other effexor user live with this vague sense of impending trouble? Paradoxically, when I started effexor I was too depressed to really care much about the withdrawal symptoms but now that I am less depressed I am starting to think about the future more and I see effexor withdrawal as a roadblock I have to overcome sooner or later before I’m ever really free from depression. -scattered

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Scattered. I was on 225mg and it was working fine – after lack of success with four or five other meds. Then some tests came back showing my liver was damaged (fatty liver) and the most likely cause was the Effexor. I came off it over the course of 3 weeks, 150mg week 1, 75mg week 2, 0mg week 3, then on to my new med. The side effects were the worst I have experienced on any of the meds. Severe dizziness, noises in my head, bolts of electric down my arms to my hands, etc. etc. Now, 5 weeks after beginning withdrawal, the above problems are less frequent and much more minor. Now here’s the thing. Despite the problems, I would do it again, in fact if my liver trouble could go away I would go back on the Effexor in an instant. Yes the withdrawal was a bastard, but I got over it. The point is that the Effexor worked. It has given me hope. It has shown me that it is possible for me to climb out of the black hole. At the moment I’m back in the hole and struggling badly, if I hadn’t had that window of normality after trying for so long to find a med that worked, I would give up now (it’s tempting to give up anyway!). If the Effexor is working for you then give thanks and keep on going with it as long as your doc tells you to. Incidentally, I’m assured that though it’s a known problem, the liver thing is rare. Mick.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all,   I am currently on 150 mg effexor xr and am actually doing well. Effexor is the first antidepressant I took that seemed to make a difference. Based on that – I am happy with it. On the other hand, I can’t shake the feeling that I am living on borrowed time. I have read way too many accounts of the nightmares that many people have gone through withdrawing from the drug. Every morning when I take the pill I have a momentary twinge – like what am I doing to myself? Will it be worth it in the end? Does any other effexor user live with this vague sense of impending trouble? Paradoxically, when I started effexor I was too depressed to really care much about the withdrawal symptoms but now that I am less depressed I am starting to think about the future more and I see effexor withdrawal as a roadblock I have to overcome sooner or later before I’m ever really free from depression. -scattered

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Funny thing about taking antidepressants is that I have also started to think of the future, which is something I never did….and I am in my fifties. I always did things on the spur of the moment…spontaneously, which sounds like fun, but the older ya get, the more unstable it becomes to live that way.  I just never could think past a day or week in advance at the most.  It was weird now that I think of it.  Since being on ad’s I can think about the future somewhat and seem less compulsive, but thinking about the future at my age, when all my life I didn’t…..is discombobulating to say the least. Because of my lifestyle of not thinking about the future, I have not been able to work, depression and all…and now that I want to get a job as I am thinking about my future, I am so nervous and unconfident in myself for all the years I just sat around waiting for tomorrow to come.  What a shock, when the future  becomes part of your life.  I identify with you totally.  Deb

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Well, I can tell you now that Effexor has enabled me to get back on an even keel. Having said that, I am on the lowest dose (37.5mg per day), and missing one gives the classic withdrawal, that is: electric bolts, strange vision and confusion. Still, I can live with the daftness of missing one when the bulk of my life is fine. I think I shall have to get a very sharp knife to chop up the tabs into small enough doses to wean off. Good Luck !!! Peter, Bradford, England

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all,   I am currently on 150 mg effexor xr and am actually doing well. Effexor is the first antidepressant I took that seemed to make a difference. Based on that – I am happy with it. On the other hand, I can’t shake the feeling that I am living on borrowed time. I have read way too many accounts of the nightmares that many people have gone through withdrawing from the drug. Every morning when I take the pill I have a momentary twinge – like what am I doing to myself? Will it be worth it in the end? Does any other effexor user live with this vague sense of impending trouble? Paradoxically, when I started effexor I was too depressed to really care much about the withdrawal symptoms but now that I am less depressed I am starting to think about the future more and I see effexor withdrawal as a roadblock I have to overcome sooner or later before I’m ever really free from depression. -scattered

Look, believe it or not, I do think AD’s can help.  I also strongly believe the SSRI’s are filled with serious problems. That said I suggest that you start therapy, if you have not already if you have continuing situations in your life which get you down, or add stress. Sometimes just a dozen sessions can make a great deal of difference. Don’t worry about the Effexor for a while, say six months.  At the end of the six months reevaluate the situation in your life.  I would suggest that you have both medical and psychological support in place for the withdrawal (which might not even happen for you, everyone is different) from the drug. Obviously a slow phased phase out is the way to do it, but scattered, concentrate on your old issues now, since from the tone of your post, it seems like you have experienced some relief from depression.

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<< Effexor is the first antidepressant I took that seemed to make a difference. Based on that – I am happy with it. On the other hand, I can’t shake the feeling that I am living on borrowed time. I have read way too many accounts of the nightmares that many people have gone through withdrawing from the drug. *** I had a discussion with my doctor about this yesterday. I’ve been on Effexor XR for several months; at about 225mg it seemed to stop working, so he added a small dosage of Ritalin and it helped. But I’ve been having some real downtimes lately, and when the doc suggested increasing the Effexor to 300mg I asked him the same withdrawl questions. He didn’t seem overly concerned; he said that if I chose to withdraw I’d just have to do it very, very slowly. I’m troubled by the idea of being physically dependant on this drug (what if there’s another big earthquake and the pharmacies aren’t operating?). But in the end, I’m willing to take my chances; it’s better than the uncontrollable rage and depression I felt before I started the meds. Kit

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Question:

Hi allemaal; Ik ben toch nog thuis dit weekend, en dat boven alle verwachtingen. Het leek er eerst niet erg op en al helemaal niet toen ik vanmiddag een PA aanval kreeg bij m’n Pdoc op de kamer.  En die was zo ingemeen, het kwam totaal uit het niets. Ik heb Philip nog gebeld deze week en heb ook verteld hoe het er nu voor staat, hij zal jullie het wel laten weten. Volgende week gaat m’n Pdoc de Efexor verhogen, dus het is nog afwachten wat het gaat worden. Ik hoop dat ik wat minder aan PA aanvallen krijg, het maakt je zo moe. En ik ken dan ook beginnen met de CBT, en dat is nu nog niet mogelijk. IK ga nog te vaak op de run, en ik zie het nog niet erg zitten maar misscien komt dat nog. Ik weet wel dat ik het wil proberen, en vooral als jullie achter mij blijven staan. Ik houd van jullie mijn asap family. Liefs Diana.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi allemaal; Ik ben toch nog thuis dit weekend, en dat boven alle verwachtingen. Het leek er eerst niet erg op en al helemaal niet toen ik vanmiddag een PA aanval kreeg bij m’n Pdoc op de kamer.  En die was zo ingemeen, het kwam totaal uit het niets. Ik heb Philip nog gebeld deze week en heb ook verteld hoe het er nu voor staat, hij zal jullie het wel laten weten. Volgende week gaat m’n Pdoc de Efexor verhogen, dus het is nog afwachten wat het gaat worden. Ik hoop dat ik wat minder aan PA aanvallen krijg, het maakt je zo moe. En ik ken dan ook beginnen met de CBT, en dat is nu nog niet mogelijk. IK ga nog te vaak op de run, en ik zie het nog niet erg zitten maar misscien komt dat nog. Ik weet wel dat ik het wil proberen, en vooral als jullie achter mij blijven staan. Ik houd van jullie mijn asap family. Liefs Diana.

TRANSLATION: Hi all; I am at home for the weekend after all, beyond all expectations. I didn’t think I could do it, especially when this afternoon I got a PA in my pdoc’s office. It was a particularly nasty one, completely out of the blue. I called Philip earlier this week and told him how things stand. He will let you know. (Ha! Did that already! PP) Next week the doc will raise the Effexor dose so I have to wait what will happen. I hope I will have fewer PA’s, they make me so tired. I can then start CBT too which is not yet possible now. I still run away too often and I am not feeling well at all but perhaps I will later. I know that I want to try, especially if you are behind me. I love you, my ASAP family! Diana

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[snipped]  I know that I want to try, especially if you are behind me. Yes we are behind you Diana. You sound better. Thanks Philip for translating, – Kinder

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Hi, Diana, It is great to hear from you.  You sound optimistic!  We are here for you and thinking of you all the time…  I am sending you strength to get through this rough time. smiles, Elise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi allemaal; Ik ben toch nog thuis dit weekend, en dat boven alle verwachtingen. Het leek er eerst niet erg op en al helemaal niet toen ik vanmiddag een PA aanval kreeg bij m’n Pdoc op de kamer.  En die was zo ingemeen, het kwam totaal uit het niets. Ik heb Philip nog gebeld deze week en heb ook verteld hoe het er nu voor staat, hij zal jullie het wel laten weten. Volgende week gaat m’n Pdoc de Efexor verhogen, dus het is nog afwachten wat het gaat worden. Ik hoop dat ik wat minder aan PA aanvallen krijg, het maakt je zo moe. En ik ken dan ook beginnen met de CBT, en dat is nu nog niet mogelijk. IK ga nog te vaak op de run, en ik zie het nog niet erg zitten maar misscien komt dat nog. Ik weet wel dat ik het wil proberen, en vooral als jullie achter mij blijven staan. Ik houd van jullie mijn asap family. Liefs Diana.

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Hi Diana- Just wanted you to know I was at temple tonight and i thought of you when we said a healing prayer. Be well. les. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi allemaal; Ik ben toch nog thuis dit weekend, en dat boven alle verwachtingen. Het leek er eerst niet erg op en al helemaal niet toen ik vanmiddag een PA aanval kreeg bij m’n Pdoc op de kamer. En die was zo ingemeen, het kwam totaal uit het niets. Ik heb Philip nog gebeld deze week en heb ook verteld hoe het er nu voor staat, hij zal jullie het wel laten weten. Volgende week gaat m’n Pdoc de Efexor verhogen, dus het is nog afwachten wat het gaat worden. Ik hoop dat ik wat minder aan PA aanvallen krijg, het maakt je zo moe. En ik ken dan ook beginnen met de CBT, en dat is nu nog niet mogelijk. IK ga nog te vaak op de run, en ik zie het nog niet erg zitten maar misscien komt dat nog. Ik weet wel dat ik het wil proberen, en vooral als jullie achter mij blijven staan. Ik houd van jullie mijn asap family. Liefs Diana.

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Diana wrote……. Next week the doc will raise the Effexor dose so I have to wait what will happen. I hope I will have fewer PA’s, they make me so tired. I can then start CBT too which is not yet possible now. I still run away too often and I am not feeling well at all but perhaps I will later. I know that I want to try, especially if you are behind me.

Dear Diana, It is always wonderful to hear from you Good luck with the Effexor and remember that ASAP will always be behind you dear!~ {{{{{Diana}}}}} Jackie

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi allemaal; Ik ben toch nog thuis dit weekend, en dat boven alle verwachtingen. Het leek er eerst niet erg op en al helemaal niet toen ik vanmiddag een PA aanval kreeg bij m’n Pdoc op de kamer.  En die was zo ingemeen, het kwam totaal uit het niets. Ik heb Philip nog gebeld deze week en heb ook verteld hoe het er nu voor staat, hij zal jullie het wel laten weten. Volgende week gaat m’n Pdoc de Efexor verhogen, dus het is nog afwachten wat het gaat worden. Ik hoop dat ik wat minder aan PA aanvallen krijg, het maakt je zo moe. En ik ken dan ook beginnen met de CBT, en dat is nu nog niet mogelijk. IK ga nog te vaak op de run, en ik zie het nog niet erg zitten maar misscien komt dat nog. Ik weet wel dat ik het wil proberen, en vooral als jullie achter mij blijven staan. Ik houd van jullie mijn asap family. Liefs Diana.

Dag dag dag Lieve Diana )))))))) Wat fijn dat je toch even naar huis mocht ! Ik hoop toch zo voor je,dat het vlug wat beter gaat. Je ‘klinkt’ een beetje beter. Wij hier staan altijd achter je !!! Zo dan. Je bent heel moedig. Veel grote kussen van Anna

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Hi Diana, Have no doubt…we are all behind you. I hope the  effexor works out for you. {{{{{{ Diana }}}}}} take care Pete – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi all; I am at home for the weekend after all, beyond all expectations. I didn’t think I could do it, especially when this afternoon I got a PA in my pdoc’s office. It was a particularly nasty one, completely out of the blue. I called Philip earlier this week and told him how things stand. He will let you know. (Ha! Did that already! PP) Next week the doc will raise the Effexor dose so I have to wait what will happen. I hope I will have fewer PA’s, they make me so tired. I can then start CBT too which is not yet possible now. I still run away too often and I am not feeling well at all but perhaps I will later. I know that I want to try, especially if you are behind me. I love you, my ASAP family! Diana

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all; I am at home for the weekend after all, beyond all expectations. I didn’t think I could do it, especially when this afternoon I got a PA in my pdoc’s office. It was a particularly nasty one, completely out of the blue. I called Philip earlier this week and told him how things stand. He will let you know. (Ha! Did that already! PP) Next week the doc will raise the Effexor dose so I have to wait what will happen. I hope I will have fewer PA’s, they make me so tired. I can then start CBT too which is not yet possible now. I still run away too often and I am not feeling well at all but perhaps I will later. I know that I want to try, especially if you are behind me. I love you, my ASAP family! Diana

So glad to hear from you, Diana.  I will keep praying that the Effexor will work for you, and that you will feel better soon.  I think of you often. — Take care, Liz To everything there is a season …and to every season, a special beauty.

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Hoi Diana, Wat fijn dat je toch nog thuis bent gekomen dit weekend en ook nog even van je laat horen. Ik hoop ook dat het echt gauw beter met je gaat. Ook ik vind dat je wat beter klinkt. Ik ga voor je duimen dat het snel beter gaat en dat je gauw kan beginnen met de CBT. Aan jouw uithoudingsvermogen zal het in elk geval niet liggen. Blijf volhouden en natuurlijk blijf ook ik achter je staan. Ik wens je alle sterkte doe die je nu zo hard nodig hebt. Liefs, Francis althijs schreef: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi allemaal; Ik ben toch nog thuis dit weekend, en dat boven alle verwachtingen. Het leek er eerst niet erg op en al helemaal niet toen ik vanmiddag een PA aanval kreeg bij m’n Pdoc op de kamer.  En die was zo ingemeen, het kwam totaal uit het niets. Ik heb Philip nog gebeld deze week en heb ook verteld hoe het er nu voor staat, hij zal jullie het wel laten weten. Volgende week gaat m’n Pdoc de Efexor verhogen, dus het is nog afwachten wat het gaat worden. Ik hoop dat ik wat minder aan PA aanvallen krijg, het maakt je zo moe. En ik ken dan ook beginnen met de CBT, en dat is nu nog niet mogelijk. IK ga nog te vaak op de run, en ik zie het nog niet erg zitten maar misscien komt dat nog. Ik weet wel dat ik het wil proberen, en vooral als jullie achter mij blijven staan. Ik houd van jullie mijn asap family. Liefs Diana.

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Diana,     You really do seem much better! We are all behind you and wishing you well. We care, and we do not forget you. Boyd

: :

: : Hi allemaal; : : Ik ben toch nog thuis dit weekend, en dat boven alle verwachtingen. : Het leek er eerst niet erg op en al helemaal niet toen ik vanmiddag een PA : aanval : kreeg bij m’n Pdoc op de kamer. :  En die was zo ingemeen, het kwam totaal uit het niets. : Ik heb Philip nog gebeld deze week en heb ook verteld hoe het er nu voor : staat, : hij zal jullie het wel laten weten. : Volgende week gaat m’n Pdoc de Efexor verhogen, dus het is nog afwachten wat : het gaat worden. Ik hoop dat ik wat minder aan PA aanvallen krijg, het maakt : je zo moe. : En ik ken dan ook beginnen met de CBT, en dat is nu nog niet mogelijk. : IK ga nog te vaak op de run, en ik zie het nog niet erg zitten maar misscien : komt dat nog. : Ik weet wel dat ik het wil proberen, en vooral als jullie achter mij blijven : staan. : : Ik houd van jullie mijn asap family. : : Liefs Diana. : : TRANSLATION: : : Hi all; : I am at home for the weekend after all, beyond all expectations. : I didn’t think I could do it, especially when this afternoon I got a PA in my : pdoc’s office. It was a particularly nasty one, completely out of the blue. : I called Philip earlier this week and told him how things stand. He will let you : know. : (Ha! Did that already! PP) : Next week the doc will raise the Effexor dose so I have to wait what will : happen. I hope I will have fewer PA’s, they make me so tired. : I can then start CBT too which is not yet possible now. : I still run away too often and I am not feeling well at all but perhaps I will : later. : I know that I want to try, especially if you are behind me. : : I love you, my ASAP family! : : Diana :

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Thanks Phillip :  ) Diana, I’m glad to hear the you are home for the weekend. Are you able to sleep at night now ? I know when I was feeling very out of control and having panic attacks every day that I was able to relax by taking Xanax. Next I went to see a psychiatrist for the first time and he prescribed Zoloft and Clonazepam.  I’m still taking these two meds after 5 years and they do prevent me from having bad panic attacks. I always believed I would get better and I think that one’s attitude makes a big difference for any type of sickness. Everyone is cheering you on at ASAP and we want you to get better. You will get to the beach with Phillip this Spring :  ) Take care, Tony

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| | Hi allemaal; | | Ik ben toch nog thuis dit weekend, en dat boven alle verwachtingen. | Het leek er eerst niet erg op en al helemaal niet toen ik vanmiddag een PA | aanval | kreeg bij m’n Pdoc op de kamer. |  En die was zo ingemeen, het kwam totaal uit het niets. | Ik heb Philip nog gebeld deze week en heb ook verteld hoe het er nu voor | staat, | hij zal jullie het wel laten weten. | Volgende week gaat m’n Pdoc de Efexor verhogen, dus het is nog afwachten wat | het gaat worden. Ik hoop dat ik wat minder aan PA aanvallen krijg, het maakt | je zo moe. | En ik ken dan ook beginnen met de CBT, en dat is nu nog niet mogelijk. | IK ga nog te vaak op de run, en ik zie het nog niet erg zitten maar misscien | komt dat nog. | Ik weet wel dat ik het wil proberen, en vooral als jullie achter mij blijven | staan. | | Ik houd van jullie mijn asap family. | | Liefs Diana. | | TRANSLATION: | | Hi all; | I am at home for the weekend after all, beyond all expectations. | I didn’t think I could do it, especially when this afternoon I got a PA in my | pdoc’s office. It was a particularly nasty one, completely out of the blue. | I called Philip earlier this week and told him how things stand. He will let you | know. | (Ha! Did that already! PP) | Next week the doc will raise the Effexor dose so I have to wait what will | happen. I hope I will have fewer PA’s, they make me so tired. | I can then start CBT too which is not yet possible now. | I still run away too often and I am not feeling well at all but perhaps I will | later. | I know that I want to try, especially if you are behind me. | | I love you, my ASAP family! | | Diana | |

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Sam I was on Zoloft for 6 years. It gave me back my life. Don’t be afraid of it. You only hear the negatives , never the success stories. Be well.  Bob

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I guess I would do well to tell you a little bit about myself… -snipped the background- So I’ve been going to my doctor and seeing a psychologist. My GP has been trying to get me on medication for months. I take 2mg of Xanax to help me sleep (rather unsuccessfuly) and the Zoloft now. My psychologist resigned and moved interstate so I had to go to another one…it was hideous. So unpleasant. We argued for an hour. He said that I wasn’t depressed I was just very lazy and that perhaps I wasn’t as good as I think I am. I was shattered. So upset. This was about a month or so ago. I have been refusing to see one ever since. My GP wants me to see a psychiatrist but now I’m frightened of such negative judgements, I’m refusing to go. Does Zoloft only work in conjunction with therapy? Finding a good therapist that is a good match for you can often be more difficult and emotion/time consuming than finding a useful medication. And for some people all they need is the medication.  Everyone is different.  But one thing is for sure, medication doesn’t work as well in conjunction with a *shitty* therapist!!!   Don’t give up on getting good help.  Rely on your gut.  If one therapist is a jerk, just remember that they are only human.  Look for another one. Good luck.  Maybe keep us posted (so to speak) on your efforts?? Sincerely Stewart PS.  Your GP *can* prescribe zoloft for you, tho he/she *may* not want to do so, and may prefer to defer to a specialist for that.  If you really want to try an antidepressant and you really don’t want to talk with a psychiatrist to get it, you can find another GP who might be more willing to prescribe it for you.  Most GP’s hand out zoloft like it was candy (not that I personally think that is such a good thing, but it’s there….) — The Metaphor Man  *and*  The Great Defender of the Self (remove the SPAMBLOCK) Please send me an e-mail copy of your posted response.

Well, first of all finding a therapist who "fits" is important.  From my own experience, I was severely depressed for for years and saw a therapist for three of those four years.  We did absolutely no ‘therapy’ because I was too depressed to actually talk, but he cared about me, helped me have flashes where I almost believed I wasn’t evil – the depression was making me think so.  I think I would have died if it weren’t for my therapists support.   Angela

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I guess I would do well to tell you a little bit about myself…

-snipped the background- So I’ve been going to my doctor and seeing a psychologist. My GP has been trying to get me on medication for months. I take 2mg of Xanax to help me sleep (rather unsuccessfuly) and the Zoloft now. My psychologist resigned and moved interstate so I had to go to another one…it was hideous. So unpleasant. We argued for an hour. He said that I wasn’t depressed I was just very lazy and that perhaps I wasn’t as good as I think I am. I was shattered. So upset. This was about a month or so ago. I have been refusing to see one ever since. My GP wants me to see a psychiatrist but now I’m frightened of such negative judgements, I’m refusing to go. Does Zoloft only work in conjunction with therapy?

Finding a good therapist that is a good match for you can often be more difficult and emotion/time consuming than finding a useful medication. And for some people all they need is the medication.  Everyone is different.  But one thing is for sure, medication doesn’t work as well in conjunction with a *shitty* therapist!!!   Don’t give up on getting good help.  Rely on your gut.  If one therapist is a jerk, just remember that they are only human.  Look for another one. Good luck.  Maybe keep us posted (so to speak) on your efforts?? Sincerely Stewart PS.  Your GP *can* prescribe zoloft for you, tho he/she *may* not want to do so, and may prefer to defer to a specialist for that.  If you really want to try an antidepressant and you really don’t want to talk with a psychiatrist to get it, you can find another GP who might be more willing to prescribe it for you.  Most GP’s hand out zoloft like it was candy (not that I personally think that is such a good thing, but it’s there….) — The Metaphor Man  *and*  The Great Defender of the Self (remove the SPAMBLOCK) Please send me an e-mail copy of your posted response.

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Hi Stewart, Thanks for taking the time to write to me. I do appreciate it a whole lot. I guess I would do well to tell you a little bit about myself… I am a 19yo university student. I began uni. this year, enrolled in Arts/Music. I play classical piano. I’ve been very successful at it and was given the best teacher imaginable. he only accepted three students in the entire country. At the time I was over the moon, but very soon expectation kicked in. Success equals demise. Every time I find success, the expectations associated with it make me push myself away from it. I lasted a semester, withdrew from the Music component. People actually screamed at me. It was a hard decision. Music has always been what I do. I went to a specialist secondary school for music and dance students so it’s been my life for a long time. So that left me in Arts. I was studying Philosophy and Literature. I stopped going about 2 months ago and have failed the lot. Everything. Expectations! Always told how well I’m going to do, so I lash back against it. I’ve failed the lot. Everything. Anyway, so i’ve had a lot of time on my hands… and have been doing a lot of accompanying. Opera is my love. I am working with 4 fantastic singers at the moment. Only been doing it for a couple of months and already the expectations are kicking in. I’ve been too successful again. This really really bothers me. Positive comments from important people left, right and centre. Invited to play in front of 15 000 people on X-mas eve. And I’m not even studying music!!! So now that I’m succeeding at it, I’m losing interest….along with everything else *sigh*. I think perhaps I’m scared of success. If you are successful at something, failing at it becomes so much worse. So I’ve been going to my doctor and seeing a psychologist. My GP has been trying to get me on medication for months. I take 2mg of Xanax to help me sleep (rather unsuccessfuly) and the Zoloft now. My psychologist resigned and moved interstate so I had to go to another one…it was hideous. So unpleasant. We argued for an hour. He said that I wasn’t depressed I was just very lazy and that perhaps I wasn’t as good as I think I am. I was shattered. So upset. This was about a month or so ago. I have been refusing to see one ever since. My GP wants me to see a psychiatrist but now I’m frightened of such negative judgements, I’m refusing to go. Does Zoloft only work in conjunction with therapy? Hope to hear from you soon. Keep well and try to be happy. Sam

Response:

Hi everyone, Sam here again. I tried and tried to get myself through depression without drugs…but finally admitted defeat on Wednesday. I’m now taking Zoloft, 50mg for a week then up to 100mg. I’ve been rather alarmed at the negative response I’ve been reading online about the drug. I’m sure you’re all bored to tears by the topic, but could we please discuss Zoloft for my benefit??? I would really appreciate it *ingratiating smile* Thanks Sam

Sam, I was one of the people that was posting about negative side effects from Zoloft.  But, the side effects I was having (it gave me really bad agitation and anxiety and screwed up my thinking even more than it was screwed up from the depression alone), are actually very rare side-effects for Zoloft.  Many people have had good results from this drug, and it’s actually one of the drugs that causes the least amount of side effects in most people.  So, I would try it, and see if it works for YOU.  If it doesn’t, you can always try something else.  Good luck! persephone — "It

Question:

I’ve been on an antidepressant (Effexor) for about six months now. It has been remarkably effective for the depression, but is affecting the quality of my sleep.  I’ve tried taking it at different times if the day, but still have problems.  One thing I notice in particular is that I often wake up after about five hours of sleep and feel tired, but mentally alert.  If I go ahead and go into the office to work super-early, my production is outstanding for about half the day. I get to feeling  very run down after lunch though.   If I go back to bed after waking up alert like this, I am usually able to drift off for another 1-2 hours of sleep.  Unfortunately, after sleeping an extra hour or two,  I FIND IT ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO GET UP. Even after loading up on coffee, no-doz, etc., I feel groggy all day.  I guess I don’t understand sleep cycles. How can I be more tired from sleeping two extra hours?  Does this have anything to do with which sleep cycle I’m in when the alarm goes off?  Any ideas on this will be appreciated.

Response:

Hello, DGA – Have you ever been tested for a sleep disorder?  For years doctors tried to tell me that I was suffering from depression because I was sleepy all of the time.  Finally I was diagnosed first with sleep apnea and five years with narcolepsy.  I don’t know how long I had apnea before it was diagnosed, but I had had the narcolepsy for 37 years!  Having untreated sleep disorders can depress anyone! Kent Taylor (Mongo) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -DGA wrote in message …

I’ve been on an antidepressant (Effexor) for about six months now. It has been remarkably effective for the depression, but is affecting the quality of my sleep.  I’ve tried taking it at different times if the day, but still have problems.  One thing I notice in particular is that I often wake up after about five hours of sleep and feel tired, but mentally alert.  If I go ahead and go into the office to work super-early, my production is outstanding for about half the day. I get to feeling  very run down after lunch though.   If I go back to bed after waking up alert like this, I am usually able to drift off for another 1-2 hours of sleep.  Unfortunately, after sleeping an extra hour or two,  I FIND IT ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO GET UP. Even after loading up on coffee, no-doz, etc., I feel groggy all day.  I guess I don’t understand sleep cycles. How can I be more tired from sleeping two extra hours?  Does this have anything to do with which sleep cycle I’m in when the alarm goes off?  Any ideas on this will be appreciated.

Response:

On Wed, 04 Aug 1999 19:16:58 GMT, "DGA" <davea…@flash.net

wrote: I’ve been on an antidepressant (Effexor) for about six months now. It has been remarkably effective for the depression, but is affecting the quality of my sleep.  I’ve tried taking it at different times if the day, but still have problems.  One thing I notice in particular is that I often wake up after about five hours of sleep and feel tired, but mentally alert.  If I go ahead and go into the office to work super-early, my production is outstanding for about half the day. I get to feeling  very run down after lunch though.   If I go back to bed after waking up alert like this, I am usually able to drift off for another 1-2 hours of sleep.  Unfortunately, after sleeping an extra hour or two,  I FIND IT ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO GET UP. Even after loading up on coffee, no-doz, etc., I feel groggy all day.  I guess I don’t understand sleep cycles. How can I be more tired from sleeping two extra hours?  Does this have anything to do with which sleep cycle I’m in when the alarm goes off?  Any ideas on this will be appreciated.

Try setting an alarm to limit your nap to 20-30 minutes.  Most people will be somewhat refreshed by that without having the body go into the "very groggy" state you describe. When you go to sleep, there are a lot of things that slow down – not just heartrate, many other body systems do this.  By going to sleep for 1-2 hours you give your body time to completely shut down – and you’ve seen how hard it is to get it started again.  By taking a short nap you don’t give your body time to completely shut down, so starting up again is a lot easier. In college I pulled a few long nights now and again.  I found that if I finished early enough to get 3 or more hours of sleep it was worth going to bed.  If I was going to get 1-2 hours (just as you describe) it did the same thing for me it is doing to you – made me really groggy the next day.  So if there was only time for 1-2 hours I just stayed awake (hadn’t been told about short naps then).

Response:

DGA wrote:

I’ve been on an antidepressant (Effexor) for about six months now. It has been remarkably effective for the depression, but is affecting the quality of my sleep.

Greetings!  You’ve definitely come the right spot to talk about sleep problems.  Just remember that most of us here are not medical professionals. We can offer our own experience, and that of others, but it’s just that … our own thoughts and opinions, not a medical training!

One thing I notice in particular is that I often wake up after about five hours of sleep and feel tired, but mentally alert.  …

You might want to check out the patient information for this drug.  You can search for it at http://www.rxlist.com/ where I found indications that this drug for a small percentage of people slightly (very slightly) increased the incidence of insomnia and somnolence. You might want to discuss this with your doctor.  Additionally as Kent pointed out, your depression might well be connnected to sleep problems. Also, (and remember this is my own experience only) you might want to change the time you sleep to 1.5 hours instead of 2 hours.  I find that I feel more rested when I get a multiple of 90 minutes of sleep. Regards, =jbf= John B. Fisher

Response:

I was on Effexor for depression but went off of it. I am very groggy when I get up my resting heartbeat is faster than it should be. and I am always in alot of pains. ie. lower back, etc. among other stress and the like.

Response:

DGA wrote:

I’ve been on an antidepressant (Effexor) for about six months now. I guess I don’t understand sleep cycles. How can I be more tired from sleeping two extra hours?  Does this have anything to do with which sleep cycle I’m in when the alarm goes off?  Any ideas on this will be appreciated.

I’ve been on Effexor for 5 years.  It has caused two sleep related problems for me.  The first is called Rem Behavioral Disorder.  This is a condition where you "act out" your dreams, and it makes your sleep non-restful.  The second is called "Periodic Leg Movement Disorder."  I had a related problem (called Restless Leg Syndrome) before I went on Effexor, but SSRIs can make it much worse.  If you have PLMD without RLS, then you probably don’t even know you have it, and Effexor can make it get much worse.  PLMD means you kick your legs every minute or two, all night long.  (except when you are dreaming) The kicks cause you to stay in a less-restful stage of sleep, and keep you from getting enough of the deep sleep you need in order to get real rest. I have noticed over the years on Effexor that if I wake up naturally, then go back to sleep, I will end up sleeping for up to a whole DAY before I can manage to get myself back out of bed.  (Unless something scares me awake, or my wife physically drags my butt out of bed.) I haven’t ever heard about this before, and I always assumed it was because the meds I take for sleep wear off by morning time.  But you are right, it doesn’t seem to make a lot of sense.  I’ll ask my psychiatrist about it, and see if I can find anything about it on the net. One thing you might want to consider is the VERY short halflife of Effexor.  Do you usually take it in the morning?  If you take it when you get up, but you put off getting up, then that _might_ make it so that you start to experience the very mild beginnings of withdrawal.  Effexor withdrawal can be VERY nasty, and it generally involves migraine headaches, _massive_ periods of fragmented sleep where you often can’t clearly distinguish between being awake and being asleep, and vertigo/balance problems.  I’m on Effexor XR, so that I can get by with only one dose per day.  With normal Effexor, I had to take it twice a day, and if I was more than an hour or two late for the dose, I’d start having the headaches, dizziness, etc. About your weird problems when going back to sleep though, with ME, it seems like I stay in a sleep which is kind of like the sleep I have when I’m going through Effexor withdrawal.  I’m 1/2 awake, and 1/2 asleep, and it is impossible to tell if I’m dreaming or not. Any time I experience that "weird sleep," I usually end up not being able to get out of bed for a long time, and I always end up being exhausted for at least 12 hours or so afterwards.  It’s probably some weird sleep problem caused by Effexor, which someone will end up "discovering" in 10 years.  :) Anyway, my best suggestion is to just get up after 5 hours, and try to stick it out til your normal bedtime the next night.  If you need more than 5 hours sleep per night, then eventually the sleep deficit should help you sleep later.  I don’t have ANY idea what to do about the weird grogginess after going back to sleep.  I never even really gave it much thought as being a problem separate from my OTHER sleep problems until I read your post.  Thanks for the info.  :) -Bret Wood -bretw…@cs.uoregon.edu

Response:

Question:

I told my doctor today that the zoloft was not doing anything for me after the initial dosage of 25mg. (I did feel a little better) and after a month he uped the dosage to 50mg– which I felt no different and if anything more anxious. (Xanax aslo perscribed) After taking the 50 mg for a month –I asked him today should I switch to Paxil? He told me don’t believe all the advertizing you read, paxil won’t work any better than zoloft. Just thought you might like mto hear this from what I consider a good  P doctor.

Response:

I told my doctor today that the zoloft was not doing anything for me after the initial dosage of 25mg. (I did feel a little better) and after a month he uped the dosage to 50mg– which I felt no different and if anything more anxious. (Xanax aslo perscribed) After taking the 50 mg for a month –I asked him today should I switch to Paxil? He told me don’t believe all the advertizing you read, paxil won’t work any better than zoloft. Just thought you might like mto hear this from what I consider a good  P doctor.

  I think that your doctor just means that Paxil and Zoloft are just as effective percentage wise in treating PA…However, this does not mean that you don’t fit into the 30% that don’t find help with Zoloft…Nor does it mean that you won’t be sucessful with Paxil because you weren’t with Zoloft…All the SSRI’s may have different effects on you…All that being said I agree with what’s been said here…I felt a little better with 50 mg…A lot better at 100 mg…You have a long way to go before giving up on Zoloft…And some improvement at 25 mg likely means a lot more later…Therefore switching to Paxil may just cost you time (since it’ll take just as long to be effective most likely)… — Charles Phipps

Response:

Philip,     I just wanted to chime in an opinion.  I’ve been on both paxil and zoloft. Zoloft made me like a zombie.  Paxil did wonders in preventing attacks.  I’m on Effexor XR 75 mg right now and it has actually let me make some improvements in my life.  Plus it doesn’t make me feel drowsy like most of the others do. Craig Mangrum – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I told my doctor today that the zoloft was not doing anything for me after the initial dosage of 25mg. (I did feel a little better) and after a month he uped the dosage to 50mg– which I felt no different and if anything more anxious. (Xanax aslo perscribed) After taking the 50 mg for a month –I asked him today should I switch to Paxil? He told me don’t believe all the advertizing you read, paxil won’t work any better than zoloft. Just thought you might like mto hear this from what I consider a good  P doctor. The truth is, though, that our reactions to different SSRI’s are very personal and that some may do well on Zoloft and worse on Paxil or vice versa etc. If all SSRI’s had the same results with everybody there wouldn’t have to be more than one. Regarding the Zoloft I believe that you haven’t given it a fair trial yet. Philip

Response:

I told my doctor today that the zoloft was not doing anything for me after the initial dosage of 25mg. (I did feel a little better) and after a month he uped the dosage to 50mg– which I felt no different and if anything more anxious. (Xanax aslo perscribed) After taking the 50 mg for a month –I asked him today should I switch to Paxil? He told me don’t believe all the advertizing you read, paxil won’t work any better than zoloft. Just thought you might like mto hear this from what I consider a good  P doctor.

The truth is, though, that our reactions to different SSRI’s are very personal and that some may do well on Zoloft and worse on Paxil or vice versa etc. If all SSRI’s had the same results with everybody there wouldn’t have to be more than one. Regarding the Zoloft I believe that you haven’t given it a fair trial yet. Philip

Response:

I told my doctor today that the zoloft was not doing anything for me after the initial dosage of 25mg. (I did feel a little better) and after a month he uped the dosage to 50mg– which I felt no different and if anything more anxious. (Xanax aslo perscribed) After taking the 50 mg for a month –I asked him today should I switch to Paxil? He told me don’t believe all the advertizing you read, paxil won’t work any better than zoloft. Just thought you might like mto hear this from what I consider a good  P doctor.

Hi Dan, Get a new doctor, or educate him His statement is false. We have many people here that did awful on Zoloft but did well on Paxil and vice  versa. Even though the two are SSRI anti-depressants, they are still quite different. All the meds in the SSRI family are different from each other. Some are more sedating than others, and some are more stimulating. If you feel that strongly about trying a new med, demand it or find a new doctor. You might want to think of upping the Zoloft dose, your dose might be a bit low, and that is why you are still experiencing anxiety. 50mgs of Zoloft is a low therapeutic dose. Use your Xanax to help you deal with the anxiety.  Take care!! Jackie ~~On earth, an angel’s wings are inside~~

Response:

I agree to educate this MD or get a new one.  Very poor answer.  I have been on paxil about 5 years and it has been a life saver, Zoloft did nothing for me.

Response:

(Dan Littleton) writes: I told my doctor today that the zoloft was not doing anything for me after the initial dosage of 25mg. (I did feel a little better) and after a month he uped the dosage to 50mg– which I felt no different and if anything more anxious.

Hi Dan. I think you might want to give the Z more of a chance. 25mg *really* isn’t much and if it was helping a little bit, that’s a good sign. Some people need 200mg or even more, but your doctor is right to increase it gradually. The increased anxiety as you raise the dose is a common side effect – if you’re able to tolerate it for a little while, the extra anxiety will go away as your body gets used to the drug. I don’t remember if you are taking other meds as well, but if not, you might ask for a benzo such as Klonopin, Xanax, or Ativan, to smooth things out while you’re increasing the dose of Zoloft. Paxil doesn’t work better than Zoloft in general (statistically), but it does work better for some people. For others, Zoloft works better – it averages out the same. You have no way of knowing which will be better for you unless you try them both – which is a pain in the a**, admittedly! If I were in your place, though, I’d stay with the Zoloft, since you’ve already put so much time into it and had a bit of an improvement even at a very low dose. I hope things continue to get better! -elizabeth

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