Question:

Has anyone heard of a side effect  from Triamcinolone acetonide (Azmacort) that presents like Parkinsons disease?  My mother has just been possibly diagnosted with Parkinsons disease (the neurologist wasn’t sure but he couldn’t prove she had had a stoke ). We had heard a rumor that adrenocorticoids from inhalors (Mom has been on an inhalor for 8 years) could give Parkinson’s like symptoms but can’t find any medical source to confirm this. Please help.  Deon

Response:

Has anyone heard of a side effect  from Triamcinolone acetonide (Azmacort) that presents like Parkinsons disease?  My mother has just been possibly diagnosted with Parkinsons disease (the neurologist wasn’t sure but he couldn’t prove she had had a stoke ). We had heard a rumor that adrenocorticoids from inhalors (Mom has been on an inhalor for 8 years) could give Parkinson’s like symptoms but can’t find any medical source to confirm this. Please help.  Deon Dear Deon I have had a suspicion that tremors I have been experiencing are due to azmacort. I stopped the azmacort for a week and the tremors went away. I NEED the azmacort so I had to restart it.The tremors are back.However, I am also taking numerous other medications and indeed the tremors couldbe due even to another illness I am experiencing. So I need the azmacort and don’t want to risk another self-experiment. I did not see anything about such symptoms in the pamphlet included with the azmacort. BTW, We’re switching to the Blue cross insurance HMO (MASS, USA) and they will cover flovent and pulmicort, but not azmacort! The doctor had taken me off flovent because hethought it was very strong and causing recurring thrush.I wonder how people like pulmicort inhalers. I think opinions have been voiced on this before. I’ve been told that Parkinsonian like symptoms can occur with other medications. Chilla

Response:

Question:

I take lots of inhalers and have just tried Singulair. How long does it take to start working?

When I was in the worst of the year-long attack I had, I felt the effects of Singulair immediately. Now I wonder whether it’s working at all, but it must be because I get worse if I miss taking it.

Response:

I take lots of inhalers and have just tried Singulair. How long does it take to start working? It doesn’t seem to do anything. It is always hard for me to tell what works since I run into triggers off and on. With that and delayed reactions, it is hard to play detective and tell what is due to what. Thanks for the help.

I found it worked within the first few days.  But it appears to be effect for only 2/3 of the people taking it.  You may be in the 1/3. Check with your allergist.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I started it on Tuesday of this week and my experience is it worked almost immediately. My wife said I slept so well…no coughing and no snoring either ( I have sleep apnea….not using my Bi-PAP now because of the 4-5 weeks I’ve had lung problems). She said I hardly moved all night long. YMMV….this is just my experience   Wow! Me too! I had been using my Proventil inhaler regularly along with Serevent. The Dr. put me back on Flovent and added Singulair. I haven’t needed the Proventil even once since then. Since I believe the Flovent takes some time to start working I’m convinced that the Singulair did the job. I’m not 100% better yet – my lungs still hurt when I take a deep breath. But I’m very much improved! Debi

Singulair is practically my god…within 24 hours I felt a *huge* effect. I now use proventil as a rescue inhaler maybe once a week, as opposed to the once/twice/even three times a day I used to have to use it. —  Karen Ingraffea  "I might be a coward; I’m afraid of what I might find out…" -(The Mighty Mighty Bosstones) The Impression That I Get "All things being equal, you lose." -Anon

Response:

I started it on Tuesday of this week and my experience is it worked almost immediately. My wife said I slept so well…no coughing and no snoring either ( I have sleep apnea….not using my Bi-PAP now because of the 4-5 weeks I’ve had lung problems). She said I hardly moved all night long. YMMV….this is just my experience

  Wow! Me too! I had been using my Proventil inhaler regularly along with Serevent. The Dr. put me back on Flovent and added Singulair. I haven’t needed the Proventil even once since then. Since I believe the Flovent takes some time to start working I’m convinced that the Singulair did the job. I’m not 100% better yet – my lungs still hurt when I take a deep breath. But I’m very much improved! Debi

Response:

Your insert should supply this information. If not your pharmacist will tell you.

Response:

I take lots of inhalers and have just tried Singulair. How long does it take to start working? It doesn’t seem to do anything. It is always hard for me to tell what works since I run into triggers off and on. With that and delayed reactions, it is hard to play detective and tell what is due to what. Thanks for the help.

Generally, about 30 days is considered an adequate time to tell if it is or is not working. It’s a terrible responsibility – but somebody has to be the Americans.

Response:

I started it on Tuesday of this week and my experience is it worked almost immediately. My wife said I slept so well…no coughing and no snoring either ( I have sleep apnea….not using my Bi-PAP now because of the 4-5 weeks I’ve had lung problems). She said I hardly moved all night long. YMMV….this is just my experience * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

I take lots of inhalers and have just tried Singulair. How long does it take to start working? It doesn’t seem to do anything. It is always hard for me to tell what works since I run into triggers off and on. With that and delayed reactions, it is hard to play detective and tell what is due to what. Thanks for the help. Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

 He has already been to his peditrician twice since his loss of appetite started. He sees his allergist next week for a regular scheduled appointment and I plan on talking to him about it then.  The Dilantin was prescribed by a neurologist after he had a seizure. The Singulair was prescribed by the allergist, and he knows about the Dilantin. I tell all the doctors he sees about the all the meds he is on. That includes the dentist and the eye doctor.  My reason for posting was to get different opinions from a variety of people. I have found this is often helpfull in obtaining answers. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -no advice is intended in this reply, I am merely providing information. QUstions like yours should definitely be referred to your sons doc .. his pediatrician as well as his allergist/pulmonologist. Appetite loss is NOT reported as a common adverse effect of anti-leukotrienes.  Diarrhea and nausea are listed just abouyt at the 3% "reportable" level.  These same side effects occur with Dilantin and are more common. Did the same doc prescribe the Dilantin and the Singulair? Dilantin is NOT on any common are path for asthma that this researcher is aware of.

Response:

I have been on SINGULAIR for the past month and have noticed no loss of appitite.  Actually I find myself more hungry–that’s probably due to the fact that I’m the the height of track season not the SINGULAIR.  I was taking ACCOLATE, but trying not to eat two hours before or two hours after taking it was a real drag.  Not only is my eating schedule a lot more flexible, but my peak flow is on averege better now that I am on SINGULAR instead of ACCOLATE.

Response:

 My 8 year old son started on Singulair about 3 weeks ago. In the middle of March he started on Dilantin. I noticed no change in his appetite until the Singulair was started. A few days after he started it he would hardly eat at all. Now he will only eat in the mornings and afternoons if I make him. He says he is just not hungry. He does eat a full meal at dinner time. But one meal a day is not good for a growing boy. At least not over a long period of time. My thoughts are it may be the Singulair. But then again maybe it is the Dilantin. His first check of Dilantin level was fine. The peditrician had tests done again today for the Dilantin plus a liver and CBC test. I’ll get those results tomorrow. I’m wondering if any others of you who have started Singulair have noticed a loss of appetite?

Loss of appetite is one of the possible listed effects of Dilantin, per the US Pharmacopeia. Perhaps he needs a lower dose of Dilantin. Here’s a link: http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/phenyt.htm phenytoin sodium (Dilantin) Excerpt: "Adverse Reactions: Gastrointestinal System: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, toxic hepatitis  and liver damage." Info on Singulair ar www.singulair.com But I think the problem is the Dilantin. (I assume he is taking the child dose of Singulair). Ellis

Response:

 My 8 year old son started on Singulair about 3 weeks ago. In the middle of March he started on Dilantin. I noticed no change in his appetite until the Singulair was started. A few days after he started it he would hardly eat at all. Now he will only eat in the mornings and afternoons if I make him. He says he is just not hungry. He does eat a full meal at dinner time. But one meal a day is not good for a growing boy. At least not over a long period of time. My thoughts are it may be the Singulair. But then again maybe it is the Dilantin. His first check of Dilantin level was fine. The peditrician had tests done again today for the Dilantin plus a liver and CBC test. I’ll get those results tomorrow. I’m wondering if any others of you who have started Singulair have noticed a loss of appetite?  Sorry this is kind of rambling but I wanted to get it out and I’m listening to my son talk well I type. We are discussing what we are going to do for Cub Scouts tonight.  Thanks

Response:

Question:

Thanks. I am curious does a psychiatrist have to prescribe?

No, GPs can do it too. But chances are they will know less about how to treat anxiety disorders than psychiatrists do. I only trust psychiatrists with a lot of experience in the treatment of anxiety disorders and an open mind (not *benzophobic*, for instance). Reason is my psychiatrist can be hard to get a hold of–ie he just have several offices he shares around town. Whereas my general practioner is always at his office day after day in case I need a dosage switch or whatever. Do general practiioner/internal medicine physcians have a enough info to reliably presribe SSRI’s?

Basically the main rule is *start low, go slow* to prevent initial worsening of symptoms. I think you should be able to reach your pdoc when necessary, maybe it will take some calls to find out where he is but it seems you *can* reach him. That would be better IMO.   Also I am very concerned SSRI’s will turn me into a robot–I have never taken any. I really dont want to get drowsy at work, etc.

Most of us are med phobic, it’s always difficult to start a (new) med. You will *not* turn into a robot though, I can assure you. Drowsiness on Zoloft is also not the first thing to expect but YMMV.   But I do want to get these racing anxiety oriented thoughts out of my head. Due to an injury I am nearly impotent at 36 yrs old so obviously those thoughts constantly race through my head—I want them to disappear.

I am very sorry to hear that. I do wonder if an SSRI like Zoloft will be the right med for you as SSRI’s very often cause sexual dysfunction including impotence as a side effect. Maybe a TCA like imipramine would be a more appropriate choice. Possibly even better would be a benzo like Xanax XR. It *is* obvious that you’d better talk to your psychiatrist about this. I find it strange that he prescribed Zoloft while knowing about your problems with impotence. I would certainly ask him about that. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – my psych has me starting out on zoloft at 50mg,,,after doing some reading should I ask him for 25mg starting dose? Yes, that will make for a smoother ride. Ideal starting dose is 12.5 mg IMO. Philip

Response:

my psych has me starting out on zoloft at 50mg,,,after doing some reading should I ask him for 25mg starting dose?

Response:

my psych has me starting out on zoloft at 50mg,,,after doing some reading should I ask him for 25mg starting dose?

Yes, that will make for a smoother ride. Ideal starting dose is 12.5 mg IMO. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

Thanks. I am curious does a psychiatrist have to prescribe? Reason is my psychiatrist can be hard to get a hold of–ie he just have several offices he shares around town. Whereas my general practioner is always at his office day after day in case I need a dosage switch or whatever. Do general practiioner/internal medicine physcians have a enough info to reliably presribe SSRI’s? Also I am very concerned SSRI’s will turn me into a robot–I have never taken any. I really dont want to get drowsy at work, etc. But I do want to get these racing anxiety oriented thoughts out of my head. Due to an injury I am nearly impotent at 36 yrs old so obviously those thoughts constantly race through my head—I want them to disappear.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – my psych has me starting out on zoloft at 50mg,,,after doing some reading should I ask him for 25mg starting dose? Yes, that will make for a smoother ride. Ideal starting dose is 12.5 mg IMO. Philip

Response:

Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – you have the right to ask him this very question-there may be enumerable reasons why he wants you to go off zoloft-some may even be valid, but that does not mean you have to, or he is right. It is fine for a doc to change their mind,  but their principal obligation is to you as your medical doctor who’s goal is to make your life better, not more confusing or anxiety producing. Please don’t spend time worrying about his motives his comments or his attitude. Enjoy your holiday as best as you can and deal with this next week. If he does not give you a reasonable explanation, it may be time to find another doctor-you may have outgrown this one. LM, Brilliant post.  You know, now that you mention it, one of my main complaints with him  is that I don’t think this particular doc specializes in Anxiety disorders.  Thus, if we are talking about anxiety or GAD, he doesn’t mind saying what "could" happen.  As in: "Yes, zoloft works for you, but it ‘could’ fail you.", etc.  I feel like saying:  Well, Gee whiz doc, I had never thought of what ‘could’ happen….Why don’t you tell me something else that COULD happen? Could Zoloft cause any permanent physical problems?  "There is no evidence that it causes heart valve failure, but similar drugs do, so heart valve failure ‘could’ happen." I have left many appointments feeling more anxious than when I went in. I think for the new year I’ll hunt for a new Pdoc  (by the way, why do people use the term Pdoc in here?)

Hi, Ron — I think it’s the convention of the group to use the term pdoc to refer to the doctor one sees to treat one’s complaints/problems or whatnot.  For a lot of people, if not most, I think the word pdoc is seen as a shortened term for psychiatrist.  However, there are instances in which people are being treated for their anxiety/panic disorder by someone who is not a psychiatrist – be it psychologist, general practice doctor, or medicine man. Best Wishes — Blue (one who is now seeing a psychiatrist – FINALLY!… ) Remove mypants to email me

Response:

Yes that’s me…sigh.  I don’t know.  5 years ago he said I’d probably be on it the rest of my life.  Now this year, there is this push for me to scale back.  I don’t get it.

you have the right to ask him this very question-there may be enumerable reasons why he wants you to go off zoloft-some may even be valid, but that does not mean you have to, or he is right. It is fine for a doc to change their mind,  but their principal obligation is to you as your medical doctor who’s goal is to make your life better, not more confusing or anxiety producing. Please don’t spend time worrying about his motives his comments or his attitude. Enjoy your holiday as best as you can and deal with this next week. If he does not give you a reasonable explanation, it may be time to find another doctor-you may have outgrown this one. LM

Response:

Ron, Find a new psychiatrist. Run away from this guy.  Run don’t walk !!!! Start looking now while you still have a prescription. Try to speak to potential psychiatrists and explain the situation to them. See how they respond and go with the pdoc that you feel understands you. You are the customer. Find a new source for your health care. Tony

Response:

Well, I just got back from meeting with my Psychiatrist.  I told him I am feeling much better now that I am back up to my original dose of 100mg. of Zoloft.  And the whole nine yards… After I finished my speal about "whew, I’m glad all that (anxiety) is over…."  He then took that opportunity to tell me he recommends I still scale down if not off completely from zoloft and that I see a therapist to work through some issues I have with my childhood.  He said this process will take a long time possibly years, but it would be for the best.

It’s time to go doctor shopping, Ron. Finally something works again and he wants to take you off it…that is not only bad medicine, it’s also downright cruel. Many people need meds and at this pojt you seem to be one of them (as am I). Moreover *working through issues you have with your childhood* is totally useless as a therapy to get rid of anxiety symptoms as any doc worth his salt should know. The therapy of choice is *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy* which is very much a here-and-now therapy. Have you ever tried it? If not, it is highly recommended. I asked him what gave him the idea that I could be off of meds and still function?  His response was that my depression/anxiety was at a moderate to moderate/low level and as such, doesn’t necessarily require medication to fight.

I see…*he* know what you go through better than *you* do? I don’t think so. I am feeling totally confused now.  I’ve tried to scale off of zoloft twice now.  Perhaps I went too rapidly both times, I don’t know.  I dropped off Zoloft completely the first time in about 8 weeks.  The second time I dropped my dosage by .25mg increments and started having anxiety attacks when I hit .50mg (1/2 my optimal dose)   How am I supposed to scale off this time?  Drop by 12.5mg increments and pray?

I wouldn’t stop taking it. It helps you. I *would* do CBT, see what that gets me and if I can maybe do without meds then. If not, that’s fine too. I don’t know folks…what do you think?  Cut my dose in half?  I’d love to.  Elliminate it completely?  There is nothing I’d like better – I’d even do back flips.

Why? If it works, it works. And a med that works is a thing to cherish.  But I just don’t know how I’m going to do it unless I could be hospitalized or something.  I lost 6 months of my life to anxiety the first time I agressively quit zoloft.  When I scaled back, I suffered for 3 weeks till I got stabilized again.  

Please find another pdoc, someone who knows what (s)he is talking about,. Don’t let this clown confuse you. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

:Also, this whole situation is causing me alot of anxiety as well. amn.  After almost 2 weeks without Xanax I am feeling like I need one :now. {{{{{Ron}}}}} Your pdoc is suppose to help decrease your anxiety, not add to it. Your anxiety might be trying to tell you that you aren`t ready to stop taking zoloft. Listen to your gut. Jackie ~*~The bad things of life were very transitory.It was the good things , the ribbed sand, the wind blowing over the white capped waves , the sunshine and the stars, that were so tough and durable~*~

Response:

.S. I am going out of town tomorrow to spend the day and night at the :in-laws….that has me anxious as well – I suppose many of you can :relate. Very understandable! Happy Thanksgiving I hope you are able to enjoy yourself. Jackie ~*~The bad things of life were very transitory.It was the good things , the ribbed sand, the wind blowing over the white capped waves , the sunshine and the stars, that were so tough and durable~*~

Response:

I just got back from meeting with my Psychiatrist. he recommends I still scale down if not off completely from zoloft and that I see a therapist to work through some issues I have with my childhood.

That’s bullshit. Going into all the perils of your childhood won’t replace the zoloft and your being anxiety free, – what is done is done, (in my opinion).  I think it’s time you shopped around for someone who knows how to treat anxiety disorders. I wish you well – K  

Response:

you have the right to ask him this very question-there may be enumerable reasons why he wants you to go off zoloft-some may even be valid, but that does not mean you have to, or he is right. It is fine for a doc to change their mind,  but their principal obligation is to you as your medical doctor who’s goal is to make your life better, not more confusing or anxiety producing. Please don’t spend time worrying about his motives his comments or his attitude. Enjoy your holiday as best as you can and deal with this next week. If he does not give you a reasonable explanation, it may be time to find another doctor-you may have outgrown this one.

LM, Brilliant post.  You know, now that you mention it, one of my main complaints with him  is that I don’t think this particular doc specializes in Anxiety disorders.  Thus, if we are talking about anxiety or GAD, he doesn’t mind saying what "could" happen.  As in: "Yes, zoloft works for you, but it ‘could’ fail you.", etc.  I feel like saying:  Well, Gee whiz doc, I had never thought of what ‘could’ happen….Why don’t you tell me something else that COULD happen? Could Zoloft cause any permanent physical problems?  "There is no evidence that it causes heart valve failure, but similar drugs do, so heart valve failure ‘could’ happen." I have left many appointments feeling more anxious than when I went in. I think for the new year I’ll hunt for a new Pdoc  (by the way, why do people use the term Pdoc in here?)

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Ron, Find a new psychiatrist. Run away from this guy.  Run don’t walk !!!! Start looking now while you still have a prescription. Try to speak to potential psychiatrists and explain the situation to them. See how they respond and go with the pdoc that you feel understands you. You are the customer. Find a new source for your health care. Tony

Tony, I think you are right.  I’ve still got some time – time to go pdoc shopping. Ron

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Well, I just got back from meeting with my Psychiatrist.  I told him I am feeling much better now that I am back up to my original dose of 100mg. of Zoloft.  And the whole nine yards… After I finished my speal about "whew, I’m glad all that (anxiety) is over…."  He then took that opportunity to tell me he recommends I still scale down if not off completely from zoloft and that I see a therapist to work through some issues I have with my childhood.  He said this process will take a long time possibly years, but it would be for the best. I asked him what gave him the idea that I could be off of meds and still function?  His response was that my depression/anxiety was at a moderate to moderate/low level and as such, doesn’t necessarily require medication to fight. I am feeling totally confused now.  I’ve tried to scale off of zoloft twice now.  Perhaps I went too rapidly both times, I don’t know.  I dropped off Zoloft completely the first time in about 8 weeks.  The second time I dropped my dosage by .25mg increments and started having anxiety attacks when I hit .50mg (1/2 my optimal dose)   How am I supposed to scale off this time?  Drop by 12.5mg increments and pray? I don’t know folks…what do you think?  Cut my dose in half?  I’d love to.  Elliminate it completely?  There is nothing I’d like better – I’d even do back flips.  But I just don’t know how I’m going to do it unless I could be hospitalized or something.  I lost 6 months of my life to anxiety the first time I agressively quit zoloft.  When I scaled back, I suffered for 3 weeks till I got stabilized again.   Ron

Dear Ron. My suggestion is to get a second opinion… You are doing better by being on that dose of zoloft. It is imo that you should remain on that while you talk with a therapist and not worry about weaning. I don’t understand why your pysch would even mention this to you at this point. You need to get your meds adjusted, then work with a therapist. I don’t want to sound negative but I would get a second viewpoint regarding your anxiety, medications etc. I feel when a doctor or pyschiatrist starts to disgust tapering off BEFORE any set therapy or mentions that you should be off it altogether is not in your best intersests at this point in your recovery. Some people, regardless of therapy, have to maintain medications through out there life time. That shouldn’t be the issue. SO I suggest the second opinion. My doc has been so good regarding the Effexor and Ativan that I take. I wish everyone had a doctor as compassionate and patient as mine. I tried to wean off the effxor and got down to 150 per day when I started to feel so sad and anxious. So I am taking the 300 per day and am doing just fine. I take the Ativan as needed. I had childhood issues to deal with and even though I am comfortable with the results, I am still taking the medications. Maybe in a year or so I can try and wean again but my doctor says it is when I AM READY to do it… I wish you all the best and please let me know if and when you see another doctor regarding your anxiety and medications. Julie

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – :I don’t know folks…what do you think?  Cut my dose in half?  I’d :love to.  Elliminate it completely?  There is nothing I’d like better :- I’d even do back flips.  But I just don’t know how I’m going to do :it unless I could be hospitalized or something.  I lost 6 months of my :life to anxiety the first time I agressively quit zoloft.  When I :scaled back, I suffered for 3 weeks till I got stabilized again.   Dear Ron, Aren`t you the poster that increased their zoloft dose about 3 1/2 weeks ago because you were having a setback? If so, then I really don`t understand why your doctor would want you to stop taking a med after you just got stabilized on it. I also question his recommending "analyze your childhood" type of therapy. A lot of people, myself included have done the talk therapy, rehashing one`s childhood and the past with very little to no impact on our anxiety disorder. That`s not saying that no one benefits from disorders is congnitive behavioral therapy. You can also do therapy while on medication. If I were you I would get a second opinion. What do you want to do? You seem hesitant about getting off zoloft which is understandable. Take care Jackie ~*~The bad things of life were very transitory.It was the good things , the ribbed sand, the wind blowing over the white capped waves , the sunshine and the stars, that were so tough and durable~*~

Jackie, Yes that’s me…sigh.  I don’t know.  5 years ago he said I’d probably be on it the rest of my life.  Now this year, there is this push for me to scale back.  I don’t get it. Also, this whole situation is causing me alot of anxiety as well. Damn.  After almost 2 weeks without Xanax I am feeling like I need one now. Ron

Response:

Hey Ron, He sounds like he needs those TALK sessions in HIS piggy bank, you just aren’t worth the effort for him if you are so easily managed on meds. sorry to sound so cold and heartless, but thats my NSHO ( NOT so humble opinion) Once in this anx/pan thing we seem to go round on a merry go round, maybe its NOT childhood issues but real life/real time issues. My GP and I do not always see eye to eye on details, but his philosophy here in this hospitality/resort area is that most of us in hospitality professions need medication support because our jobs are so seasonally whacky, we go from 100 MPH to zip  and back and must always be cheerful, helpful, and  NOT STRESSED~~, the epitome of   Yassa Massta. He has joked with me in the past that he thinks he ought to sneak a patent ~~~~~~~ not serious. He’s your doc, but you don’t have to be Yassa Massta.  Good point that you are comfortable at your current dose and want to stay there for a while…… in 3 or 6 or 9 months  or more you may have different insights. Feel Well Ron.  Make it a body memory like walking, running, breathing, eating, laughing, sleeping.   Most of us get stable on a med and then want to get off, we don’t take the time to internalize the good feeling and  own it. Thanks for bringing this up, disagreements with docs should give us opportunities to express our own thoughts. have a happy gobbleday, stay in your PJ/s as long as possible and absolutely indulge in the after meal nap. Sue

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Well, I just got back from meeting with my Psychiatrist.  I told him I am feeling much better now that I am back up to my original dose of 100mg. of Zoloft.  And the whole nine yards… After I finished my speal about "whew, I’m glad all that (anxiety) is over…."  He then took that opportunity to tell me he recommends I still scale down if not off completely from zoloft and that I see a therapist to work through some issues I have with my childhood.  He said this process will take a long time possibly years, but it would be for the best. I asked him what gave him the idea that I could be off of meds and still function?  His response was that my depression/anxiety was at a moderate to moderate/low level and as such, doesn’t necessarily require medication to fight. I am feeling totally confused now.  I’ve tried to scale off of zoloft twice now.  Perhaps I went too rapidly both times, I don’t know.  I dropped off Zoloft completely the first time in about 8 weeks.  The second time I dropped my dosage by .25mg increments and started having anxiety attacks when I hit .50mg (1/2 my optimal dose) How am I supposed to scale off this time?  Drop by 12.5mg increments and pray? I don’t know folks…what do you think?  Cut my dose in half?  I’d love to.  Elliminate it completely?  There is nothing I’d like better – I’d even do back flips.  But I just don’t know how I’m going to do it unless I could be hospitalized or something.  I lost 6 months of my life to anxiety the first time I agressively quit zoloft.  When I scaled back, I suffered for 3 weeks till I got stabilized again. Ron

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – :I don’t know folks…what do you think?  Cut my dose in half?  I’d :love to.  Elliminate it completely?  There is nothing I’d like better :- I’d even do back flips.  But I just don’t know how I’m going to do :it unless I could be hospitalized or something.  I lost 6 months of my :life to anxiety the first time I agressively quit zoloft.  When I :scaled back, I suffered for 3 weeks till I got stabilized again.   Dear Ron, Aren`t you the poster that increased their zoloft dose about 3 1/2 weeks ago because you were having a setback? If so, then I really don`t understand why your doctor would want you to stop taking a med after you just got stabilized on it. I also question his recommending "analyze your childhood" type of therapy. A lot of people, myself included have done the talk therapy, rehashing one`s childhood and the past with very little to no impact on our anxiety disorder. That`s not saying that no one benefits from disorders is congnitive behavioral therapy. You can also do therapy while on medication. If I were you I would get a second opinion. What do you want to do? You seem hesitant about getting off zoloft which is understandable. Take care Jackie ~*~The bad things of life were very transitory.It was the good things , the ribbed sand, the wind blowing over the white capped waves , the sunshine and the stars, that were so tough and durable~*~

P.S. I am going out of town tomorrow to spend the day and night at the in-laws….that has me anxious as well – I suppose many of you can relate.

Response:

If you are comfortable on the med and doing well, then I fail to understand your pdoc’s point of view.  I think you are right to stay on it. Take care, Liz – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Well, I just got back from meeting with my Psychiatrist.  I told him I am feeling much better now that I am back up to my original dose of 100mg. of Zoloft.  And the whole nine yards… After I finished my speal about "whew, I’m glad all that (anxiety) is over…."  He then took that opportunity to tell me he recommends I still scale down if not off completely from zoloft and that I see a therapist to work through some issues I have with my childhood.  He said this process will take a long time possibly years, but it would be for the best. I asked him what gave him the idea that I could be off of meds and still function?  His response was that my depression/anxiety was at a moderate to moderate/low level and as such, doesn’t necessarily require medication to fight. I am feeling totally confused now.  I’ve tried to scale off of zoloft twice now.  Perhaps I went too rapidly both times, I don’t know.  I dropped off Zoloft completely the first time in about 8 weeks.  The second time I dropped my dosage by .25mg increments and started having anxiety attacks when I hit .50mg (1/2 my optimal dose)   How am I supposed to scale off this time?  Drop by 12.5mg increments and pray? I don’t know folks…what do you think?  Cut my dose in half?  I’d love to.  Elliminate it completely?  There is nothing I’d like better – I’d even do back flips.  But I just don’t know how I’m going to do it unless I could be hospitalized or something.  I lost 6 months of my life to anxiety the first time I agressively quit zoloft.  When I scaled back, I suffered for 3 weeks till I got stabilized again.   Ron

Response:

:I don’t know folks…what do you think?  Cut my dose in half?  I’d :love to.  Elliminate it completely?  There is nothing I’d like better :- I’d even do back flips.  But I just don’t know how I’m going to do :it unless I could be hospitalized or something.  I lost 6 months of my :life to anxiety the first time I agressively quit zoloft.  When I :scaled back, I suffered for 3 weeks till I got stabilized again.   Dear Ron, Aren`t you the poster that increased their zoloft dose about 3 1/2 weeks ago because you were having a setback? If so, then I really don`t understand why your doctor would want you to stop taking a med after you just got stabilized on it. I also question his recommending "analyze your childhood" type of therapy. A lot of people, myself included have done the talk therapy, rehashing one`s childhood and the past with very little to no impact on our anxiety disorder. That`s not saying that no one benefits from disorders is congnitive behavioral therapy. You can also do therapy while on medication. If I were you I would get a second opinion. What do you want to do? You seem hesitant about getting off zoloft which is understandable. Take care Jackie ~*~The bad things of life were very transitory.It was the good things , the ribbed sand, the wind blowing over the white capped waves , the sunshine and the stars, that were so tough and durable~*~

Response:

Well, I just got back from meeting with my Psychiatrist.  I told him I am feeling much better now that I am back up to my original dose of 100mg. of Zoloft.  And the whole nine yards… After I finished my speal about "whew, I’m glad all that (anxiety) is over…."  He then took that opportunity to tell me he recommends I still scale down if not off completely from zoloft and that I see a therapist to work through some issues I have with my childhood.  He said this process will take a long time possibly years, but it would be for the best. I asked him what gave him the idea that I could be off of meds and still function?  His response was that my depression/anxiety was at a moderate to moderate/low level and as such, doesn’t necessarily require medication to fight. I am feeling totally confused now.  I’ve tried to scale off of zoloft twice now.  Perhaps I went too rapidly both times, I don’t know.  I dropped off Zoloft completely the first time in about 8 weeks.  The second time I dropped my dosage by .25mg increments and started having anxiety attacks when I hit .50mg (1/2 my optimal dose)   How am I supposed to scale off this time?  Drop by 12.5mg increments and pray? I don’t know folks…what do you think?  Cut my dose in half?  I’d love to.  Elliminate it completely?  There is nothing I’d like better – I’d even do back flips.  But I just don’t know how I’m going to do it unless I could be hospitalized or something.  I lost 6 months of my life to anxiety the first time I agressively quit zoloft.  When I scaled back, I suffered for 3 weeks till I got stabilized again.   Ron

Response:

Question:

hello all, this is for serafina,doctor is worried about her becoming addicitive to her pain meds she was taking trazadone and he switch to paxil.it must hve been a sales person that visited the Dr. for one would like to here from a doctor that have gone thru  the pain we go thru.oh yeh!his buddies would give  him/her plenty of pain meds.its almost like they make you feel that there’s nothing wrong with you when you no good an well your sick.try a pain clinic and get your meds.and maybe some one on one care.good luck<go to your pcp

beverly – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Serafina wrote:

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

I am having lots of trouble with POSTING and REPLYING:   Seems, most everything gets put into the email "sent"  folder. Anyway, my Pain Management Specialist put me on Oxy and Hydrocodone for the pain and Trazadone for depression. My rheumy told me NOT to take Hydrocodone and changed the Trazadone to Paxil. I think you are right….MDs respond to sales persons. Before I go anyfurther, I would like to find out how I can {I have tried creating rules} have news messages posted from only the past 3 days.  I tried but I am still getting all messages posted from when I first signed on:  June 18. So, I have two questions herein……..need help on both……….Serafina "BEVERLY" <sw…@swbell.net

wrote in message

news:3B331F47.C189BD6E@swbell.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

hello all, this is for serafina,doctor is worried about her becoming addicitive to

her pain

meds she was taking trazadone and he switch to paxil.it must hve been a

sales

person that visited the Dr. for one would like to here from a doctor that

have

gone thru  the pain we go thru.oh yeh!his buddies would give  him/her

plenty of

pain meds.its almost like they make you feel that there’s nothing wrong

with you

when you no good an well your sick.try a pain clinic and get your meds.and

maybe

some one on one care.good luck<go to your pcp beverly Serafina wrote: Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the

chest

cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to

take

Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why

should he

completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

{{{{{{{Seraphina}}}}}}}} My suggestion would be to see another doctor, this one’s not taking you seriously. love, catherine "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote in message

news:cZIX6.169731$I5.48627224@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the

chest

cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should

he

completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

What mail reader are you using? "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote in message

news:TaHY6.3567$F5.1183702@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com…

I am having lots of trouble with POSTING and REPLYING:   Seems, most everything gets put into the email "sent"  folder.

SNIP – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Before I go anyfurther, I would like to find out how I can {I have tried creating rules} have news messages posted from only the past 3 days.  I tried but I am

still

getting all messages posted from when I first signed on:  June 18. So, I have two questions herein……..need help on both……….Serafina

Response:

Thank you…  that is exactly what I intend to do.  THere is a large Lupus clinic with 7 doctors In Asheville N.C.  All they do is work with Lupus Patients. Isn’t is sad that Lupus is so mistreated.  I am sure that if I had AIDS, the doctors would be jumping all over me to HELP.  But for Lupus,  too many doctors pass themselves off as Experts and Gods and most of them have not picked up a Lupus journal or book in over 10 years…. so, what else is new? …….       Serafina "canuckian" <canuckian…@spam.freeze.com

wrote in message

news:_vTX6.38053$TW.189786@tor-nn1.netcom.ca… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

{{{{{{{Seraphina}}}}}}}} My suggestion would be to see another doctor,

this > one’s not taking you seriously. > love, > catherine > "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote in message

> news:cZIX6.169731$I5.48627224@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com… > > Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My > > internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the > chest > > cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. > > Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take

Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why

should

he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

The difference in opinions would definitely be frustrating.  You might try asking them upon what they base their opinions.  After that, you might think about a third opinion.   As for the pain medication, I guess I have a different point of view than your rheumy. I don’t believe there is anything wrong with taking a medication for its intended purpose.  Using a medication appropriately is not abuse.  I also don’t believe in suffering if there is a way to prevent or minimize it.  People who are in constant pain aren’t able to be productive and can end up with poor quality of life.  As to whether one can become an addict while taking a pain medication, I wouldn’t say it couldn’t ever happen.  I do think though that its a secondary concern when someone is suffering from significant pain.  I also don’t believe that addiction itself is a common result of using pain medication appropriately.  Dependence certainly, but not necessarily addiction.  Just my opinion. Anyway, regarding the Paxil versus the Trazadone, you might try consulting a psychiatrist about which would be better.  They’re the true experts when it comes to psychiatric medications.  You might also want to consider asking for a referral to a pain clinic. I’ve known a number of other people who went to pain clinics.  Some were very happy with it and other not.  I don’t know which would be the case for you, but it could be worth a try.   P.S.  My daughter’s first rheumatologist was absolutely certain that my daughter did not have lupus just two weeks before he himself diagnosed her with it (with absolute certainty) and even recommended aggressive treatment. Sandra

Response:

In article <cZIX6.169731$I5.48627…@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com

, Serafina

<nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Quote from a talk by a consultant at this year’s Lupus UK conference: *IS* it Lupus? Many of Lupus’s common symptoms overlap with Fibromyalgia (henceforth ‘FM’) also called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – eg sleep that does not refresh you; vivid dreams; tired-all-day; leaden limbs. Up to 80% of Lupies show FM symptoms. Stress triggers both Lupus and FM. However the treatment is different – in particular, *steroids make FM worse*. For FM, new antidepressant drugs used at 1/20 – 1/10 of full dose can produce refreshing sleep, and also relieve pain that NSAIDs like Aspirin doesn’t. Also, NON-COMPETITIVE exercise is good, ie you don’t try to beat other people, and you don’t set yourself targets like ‘I’ll do 20 lengths today, 21 tomorrow and so on’. end quote Note his point that steroids make Fibromyalgia worse. That’s why your doctors need to get it right! — Andy For Austrian philately <URL: http://www.kitzbuhel.demon.co.uk/austamps/

For Lupus <URL: http://www.kitzbuhel.demon.co.uk/lupus/

For my other interests <URL: http://www.kitzbuhel.demon.co.uk/

Response:

hi serafina! so you went to another uncocerned rheumy.dont stop there even though its hard you’ll find one that will listen to you .i had to got to about five doctors before i found a rheumy and he gve me a referral to a pain mgmnt.and thry are just great!i hve sle,fibro ctd,copd and am a mental pt.so i hve many problems.i go to the pain mgnt center on this thursday.there going to inject steriods into my body.i hope its for the best.i’ll let you know.have you ever had brain fog i ask my mental health dr.and she said yes taking all the meds im taking.its possiable.so when i spell somethuing word please try and de code ok. beverly – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Serafina wrote:

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

Hello well well another doctor jumping the gun on what is wrong with someone. Gee is that news… I am so sorry that you have to go through a whole bunch of stuff before someone sees you as a person as well as a patient. this also happened to me, told fibro and then had xray and was told ruptured disc.  I think some docs find this as a good diagnosis for just about anything.  Although fibro is indeed a debilitating illness. The ANA is not an indicator of lupus, it can be negative, that does not mean that it is or isn;’t lupus.  There are many more test to determine this. Have you tried steroids given by the doctor, if they do help then it may not be fibro.  Fibro is worse when someone takes steroids. Sure the hydocodone is addictive, but if it helps you should ask him why in the world would he want you to be in pain if it does INDEED help you. I would ask him right out.  Do you think I am nuts here???? I have done that, boy they back right down on that.  I also think that if you are not satisfied with this doctor there are others around who will help you A second opinion is always welcome here. What kind of blood tests did he take, get the name,  also ask if he did a sed rate to see if indeed there is inflammation present in the body. Go to KCat, here I go again, and get a list of lab tests necessary. then ask him why in the world would he not want to really check it out. I hope you get some help here. Get another opinion… janers

Response:

Hi Serafina, I can only say that I can understand your frustration,and anger. Perhaps the blood work he ordered will prove him wrong. I think most of us have experienced the same thing. I have often said that the specialists almost have to be hit in the face before they can see it. Get another referral if you are not satisfied;but above all, don’t doubt yourself. I got the runaround for many years too. Then all hell broke loose for me physically,and bingo, a diagnosis. My daughter often asks if it makes me angry because I was not being heard all those years, particularly because the symptoms should have been so obvious. Some times I feel cheated,but I’m still here in spite of all the medical mistakes.You can be sure that I am thinking about you even though we have never met. BJ "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote in message

news:cZIX6.169731$I5.48627224@news1.rdc1.tn.home.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the

chest

cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should

he

completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion. Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive. I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil. I think I want to hit this guy. He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

Response:

This is  a commen problem alot of us have gone through unfortunatly. I went through 4 Rheumies before I found one that took it serious. It is so frustrating I would ask your internist is there another rheumy to see second opinion? Good Luck and hang in there Cindy

Response:

On Tue, 19 Jun 2001 14:03:52 GMT, "Serafina" <nappt…@bigfoot.com

wrote:

Say my rheumy yesterday. …   a thoroughly frustrating experience.  My internist is sure that I have Lupus   1:320, excruciating pain in the chest cavity, joints and muscles plus complete exhaustion.

your rheumy is seeing a somewhat low positive ANA and deciding that this is reason enough to say "no lupus".  My rheumy responded the same way *on that matter*.  However….

Yesterday the rheumy tells me that I have Fibromyalgia and told me to take Paxil and told me not to take Hydrocodone because it is addicitive.

okay – Paxil is a decent drug for many. Some people see improvement in pain syndromes (be they FMS or SLE Or whatever) with serotonin reuptake inhibitors (Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft, Effexor).  [note, I did not say "selective" SRIs – Effexor also works on other neurotransmitters).  Effexor relieved my joint pain for about 4 months or less.   This had me believing that it was "all in my head" – but when the pain returned with a vengeance despite continuing on the med, I came away from agreeing with the doctor.  But this doctor is probably assuming that Paxil will lessen your pain and therefore remove your need for trazadone or pain meds.  Trazadone is good for headache problems but not as good for other pain.  Great for sleep though.   you might check with some of the FM support groups to determine if they have had relief from Paxil more so than from Trazadone.

I am going a little nutty….more depressed than ever. Why should I switch from Trazadone to Paxil as he suggests and why should he completely discount Hydrocodone, MGN3, MSM and Flaxseed oil.

I don’t know much about MGN3 and MSM but the Flaxseed Oil is a known anti-inflammatory as well as having other health benefits. I recommend *against* discontinuing it.  ie. – he’s wrong on that one IMO.  As far as getting addicted – well, everyone here that knows me, knows my opinion on this.  Recently two conflicting papers were found in medical journals and depending on the doctor, some took the view I have (you’re in pain, why should you have to suffer, treating pain properly – before it becomes overwhelming – means having to use less pain meds and so on)  some took the other view (pain meds are dangerous, blah, blah, blah).  Gee, can you tell I’m opinionated on this one? for more of my rambling *opinion* you can read my site (new meds, new me) which has a discussion of my experience and what I’ve learned from others about pain meds.  I have taken Lortab (hydrocodone) for 3 years now – as needed.  Some times that meant every day for several weeks, sometimes that meant once a week for several months.  I’ve had one dose in the last three weeks.  so despite three years of access to the drug I have not become addicted or even dependent on it.  I am dependent on Ultram but not addicted – i forget to take it now and then and pay the price.  It is not "recommended" to combine Ultram with SRIs (or other antidepressants) nor with Hydrocodone – but frankly, I’ve had no problem the last three years in taking the occasional Hydrocodone while on a daily dose of Ultram.

I think I want to hit this guy.

be my guest, invite him to my place and we’ll rearrange his thinking…

He took a blood test but says he is POSITIVE that I do NOT have Lupus. Now what?  any suggestions?        thanks,   Serafina

go back to your internist.  Discuss this with him.  Discuss the issues of pain control (there are other methods that can be used in tandem with hydrocodone or in place of it).  I will try to find the articles re: pain control that were posted here some time ago.  My MIL’s doctor agrees with me that chronic sleep and pain problems are undertreated. The thing is, if you’re going to self-medicate (ie., take drugs you don’t need physically because you want them psychologically) you’re going to do it whether it’s hydrocodone or alcohol or chocolate or… get my drift?  Your internist will know your history as far as how you’ve treated your pain meds and since this doctor (rheumy) seems to care little for the discomfort of his patients, then perhaps a pain specialist is in order.  my doc (rheumy) watches my refill pattern and so does the pharmacy – so if I were to start taking the drugs improperly she would know immediately and I’d lose the privelege I have of being allowed to control my own pain. I have found that yoga and other forms of meditation have helped me considerably on joint pain and even the migraines – not a cure by any means, but a good coping mechanism. one last thing to consider – I think rheumies are seeing a *lot* of women with lupus-like symptoms right now as people are becoming more and more aware of the disease via the ‘net mostly.  So I think for some of the there is a sort of backlash – they’ve been taught this is a "rare" disease and are not willing to come away from that outdated thinking.  In addition, some rheumies will refuse to diagnose without major organ involvement because of insurance reasons.  I have learned to live without a firm diagnosis mostly because a) my rhuemy does not discount my pain  b) my rheumy provides plaquenil to help keep flares under control – thereby stating that some sort of autoimmune process is going on and c) I realize that as long as I don’t have that firm diagnosis it means I am not "that" sick.  Hurt like hell sometimes, feel like giving up sometimes, but most of the time aware that these are "mild" symptoms (nothing to do with the level of pain but just the level of risk to my life) and that I can deal with those one way or another.  It is my family doctor that doesn’t like the meds I’m on – but she defers to my rhueumy on this one.  I dont’ know if this is your first rhuematologist visit but if it is, you might consider talking to other lupus patients (and FM and so on) in a local support group to get their feelings on their doctors. kcat the verbose. good luck *********************************** KCat – I am not a medical professional.  The contents of this post are based soley on my experiences and opinions http://www.ghg.net/schwerpt/mypage.htm http://www.ghg.net/schwerpt/aslfaq20.htm   ("`-”-/").___..–”"`-._   (`6_ 6  )   `-.  (     ).`-.__.’`)    (_Y_.)’  ._   )  `._ `. “-..-”   _..`–’_..-_/  /–’_.’ ,’ (()),-”  (()),’    (((.-’

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Question:

Hi Everyone, I haven’t posted here before- I’m hoping to find someone here who understands what I’m going through.  I am dealing with the trauma of being sexually abused by my ex-husband and started having flashbacks about a month ago.  It’s been a year since we divorced but I just began to acknowledge that what he did to me was sexual abuse last October.  I think I repressed a lot of the memories because they were too painful to confront.  I was raped on numerous occasions throughout our relationship but at the time didn’t want to acknowledge that rape could happen between married people.  Most of the information I find on sexual abuse is about children who have been abused, which is a horrible thing for any child to have to go through, but I feel alone in that my sexual abuse happened in my adulthood and with the person who said he loved me.   I started taking Zoloft recently for depression and PTSD- supposedly Zoloft has been approved to treat PTSD and the anxiety and stress related to it.  It seems to be helping and I haven’t had any flashbacks since being on it but I’m getting headaches and feeling fatigued most of the time.  Does anyone else taking Zoloft have these side effects?  Just curious. Thanks for reading! Amy

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Amy, Welcome to the ng.  You experiences are not uncommon and although many of us may have experienced differing traumas – the way we react, the symptoms of PTSD are usually extremely similar. It is good that you are getting help now.  The sooner people are treated after the trauma, the chance that the severity of your symptoms can be lessened.  Keep it up – therapy and medications are our most useful tools right now. Medications are often a trial and error process too.  Side effects such as headaches and fatigue may lessen with time.  Most SSRIs like Zoloft need 6 to 8 weeks to become fully effective. If side effects are still present and hard to deal with after 2-3 months, it might be an idea to try another one.  Effexor has also been found to be effective against PTSD.  I’ve taken Prozac, Effexor and am now on Wellbutrin and find they all help to differing degrees.  I changed from Prozac to Effexor because of persistant headaches, then changed to Wellbutrin because of I couldn’t control my weight on the other two.  It takes time but the end result is worth it. There are some good websites with alot of information on PTSD and medications: http://www.trauma-pages.com/index.phtml http://www.ptsd.com/ http://www.mentalhealth.com/ Feel free to ask any questions and take care! Lesleyanne Visit my homepage at http://home.thezone.net/~chech * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

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Hi Lesleyanne, Thanks for replying to my post.  So how does PTSD affect you?  For me, the flashbacks can be brief recollections or I can actually feel like the trauma is reoccurring- kind of a suspension of reality if you know what I mean.  I also deal with this low-level ongoing sense of anxiety. So it actually helps to deal with the trauma sooner rather than waiting? Sometimes I wonder if it’s worth pursuing the trauma- if one can actually reach some kind of resolve.  I’m hoping so. Thanks for the info on the medications.  It helps. Take Care, Amy

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Amy, It is important to deal with the trauma in your therapy.  You need to understand how your condition has progressed from the trauma to your current symptoms.  It helps your mind come to terms with how it has affected you.  A good therapist can help with this while medication helps the symptoms. Dealing with the trauma as quickly as possible after the trauma has ended is key – you can see how this idea is practiced after the school shootings in the states where counsellors are brought in immediately and the students are encouraged to talk about their feelings.  In such cases, followups are imperative so as to intervene if symptoms begin to show. If this had happened for me I have no doubt that I would be in much better shape.  I even saw a psychiatrist after I returned from Bosnia in 94, but he treated me as if I was a trouble maker and indicated that if I didn’t stop, my career would be in jeopardy.  This was all too common practice in the canadian forces up to recently when they initiated a host of programs to prevent and treat PTSD in veterans.  Too late for me and alot of other people….which is what forced them to act. Right now, most of my symptoms are kept in check with medication – wellbutrin and imovane (for sleep).  I don’t work and am waiting for my release from the armed forces.  That in itself I believe will be a great relief for me.  I can’t wait. Take Care Lesleyanne Visit my homepage at http://home.thezone.net/~chech * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

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On 04 Mar 2000 22:26:26 GMT, swissc…@aol.com (SwissChsy) wrote: Hi Amy,

Most of the information I find on sexual abuse is about children who have been abused, which is a horrible thing for any child to have to go through, but I feel alone in that my sexual abuse happened in my adulthood and with the person who said he loved me.  

People here have PTSD from many different types of traumas, but I think that quite often folks can still relate to each other, because they have been through some very difficult experiences or are living with the symptoms of PTSD. You might be able to find some articles, resources, etc, out there however, which do address your own trauma more specifically. I would try looking around on some of the PTSD-related websites out there, including: http://www.trauma-pages.com/index.phtml I hope that helps. Perhaps it might also be worthwhile finding out if there are any active groups/organisations in the area for women who have been through an abusive relationship, as they might be able to offer you support, or to put you in touch with other women who have survived a similar situation…? Just a thought anyway. Either way, welcome to the newsgroup.  :^) Mae Tang (replace "nospam" with "nu-it" for a valid e-mail address) The Scampering Rat Page http://www.nu-it.demon.co.uk/scamp/

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Hi Amy, I just wanted to let you know that you aren’t alone…. I too was sexually (physically and mentally) abused by my ex. as an adult. When you wrote "with the person who said he loved me" it really hit home for me. I believe my ex really thought he loved me… but his idea or definition of love is a hell of a lot different then mine. It makes me so angry when I hear people deny that rape occurs between husband and wife, I am not referring to your self denial that events happened to you… that I understand, but rape is rape no matter how the rapist is related to the victim. I hope you improve with your side affects from the medication and I wish you the best, Patricia. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

I haven’t posted here before- I’m hoping to find someone here who understands what I’m going through.  I am dealing with the trauma of being sexually abused by my ex-husband and started having flashbacks about a month ago.  It’s been a year since we divorced but I just began to acknowledge that what he did to me was sexual abuse last October.  I think I repressed a lot of the memories because they were too painful to confront.  I was raped on numerous occasions throughout our relationship but at the time didn’t want to acknowledge that rape could happen between married people.  Most of the information I find on sexual abuse is about children who have been abused, which is a horrible thing for any child to have to go through, but I feel alone in that my sexual abuse happened in my adulthood and with the person who said he loved me. I started taking Zoloft recently for depression and PTSD- supposedly Zoloft has been approved to treat PTSD and the anxiety and stress related to it.  It seems to be helping and I haven’t had any flashbacks since being on it but I’m getting headaches and feeling fatigued most of the time.  Does anyone else taking Zoloft have these side effects?  Just curious. Thanks for reading! Amy

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Amy, everyone, I am sorry for the offensive language in my previous message. This is the first time my anger got the better of me and I should have waited until I cooled down a bit. It won’t happen again. Patricia. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -

Hi Everyone, I haven’t posted here before- I’m hoping to find someone here who understands what I’m going through.  I am dealing with the trauma of being sexually abused by my ex-husband and started having flashbacks about a month ago.  It’s been a year since we divorced but I just began to acknowledge that what he did to me was sexual abuse last October.  I think I repressed a lot of the memories because they were too painful to confront.  I was raped on numerous occasions throughout our relationship but at the time didn’t want to acknowledge that rape could happen between married people.  Most of the information I find on sexual abuse is about children who have been abused, which is a horrible thing for any child to have to go through, but I feel alone in that my sexual abuse happened in my adulthood and with the person who said he loved me. I started taking Zoloft recently for depression and PTSD- supposedly Zoloft has been approved to treat PTSD and the anxiety and stress related to it.  It seems to be helping and I haven’t had any flashbacks since being on it but I’m getting headaches and feeling fatigued most of the time.  Does anyone else taking Zoloft have these side effects?  Just curious. Thanks for reading! Amy

___________________________________________________________________________ ___ Total Internet privacy — get your Freedom pseudonym at http://www.freedom.net

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Amy Your post was in no way offensive.  Actually I believe some swearing when you want to vent is not out of the rhelm of the reasonable.  For some reason, some of these words help relieve some of the tension. For my part, I started swearing in French after 4 years in Quebec, so when I returned to an english environment I could swear all I wanted and no one had a clue what I was saying – but it felt just as good. Lesleyanne Visit my homepage at http://home.thezone.net/~chech * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

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Hi Lesleyanne, Actually Patricia was the one who wrote the e-mail she apologized for.  I agree with you- I wasn’t offended by what she said- anger is a normal response to being abused, if anger comes out, so be it.  Letting it out helps to heal, keeping it in eats away at a person. Thanks, Amy

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oops, sorry…..i’ve been having brain farts all week.  I still think it’s Friday. Tabernaque!!! Lesleyanne Visit my homepage at http://home.thezone.net/~chech * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

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Good post, man.  Tnx. ALSO tnx for the Michael Moore quote !!!   So TRUE !  The media do such a great job of distorting reality.. Norbi

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Hey folks: Well..it’s been a few days now..but my psychiatrist has me starte on this interesting (but..a bit expensive!!) combo of meds. Besides taking Depakote and Clonazepam 3x a day, he has set me up with a script for 37.5mg of Effexor XR, and 50mg of Zoloft. He was pretty good in explaining his rational, plus he knew that I was pretty knowldegable of medications. Basically, he thought a mild uptake inhibition of dopamine and norepinephrine combined with a bit stronger uptake of serotonin might possibly do the "trick" for me…as these are the only two meds I have EVER responded at least a bit well too. So, the Zoloft is the SRI, of course, and the Effexor provides that mild boost not to just serotonin, but also to norepinephrine and dopamine. The other meds seem to help smooth out the 1)anxiety and 2)insomnia. I know some people on here have been asking about this combo. If you can, and are looking at trying some augmentation of meds due to many past failures, you may want to talk to your doctor and psychiatrist about this. They may find it a bit odd…but as mentioned above, there is A BIT of logic behind it. Of course…monitor yourself very carefully on the first while of the meds..and make sure you get your bloodwork and tests done, as this is still fairly unknown territory. As always..YMMV…IMHO..etc. I was on just Effexor and Clonazepam before, but at no matter what dose of Clonazepam, I had a very hard time with a feeling of "depersonalization", and the Effexor XR just didn’t feel it was working completely right. Now..one other thing, is that my sleep pattern has seemed to fall well into place (except tonight..I just got home from work..heh) But, I sleep like a baby, and wake up feeling very refreshed. I know others have found Welbutrin to be a good combonation with any of the SRI/SNRI’s, but Welbutrin is WAY too stimulating for me. I you would like to email me with any thoughts, questions, etc, I would be more than happy to give M personal account. BUT, please, before embarking on such a med change, make SURE you discuss it thouroughly with you doc or psychiatrist. To help keep costs down…I shop around ALOT for the best prices on the medication. There are some excellent on-line pharmacies (NOT the "illegal ones) but places like Rxlist.com, who offer great prices, and free shipping on your meds. Once you and your psychiatrist figure out what works best (you..most of all,,MUST know..) s/he can usually give you up to months supply of your meds, in which you fax your prescription, or have your pshychiatrist phone it in, and it can save you a REAL bundle: NOT ONLY in the "so-called" dispensing fee’s, but also in the actual cost of the medication. As usual, also, there are free medications for those in need, with a low income. You can find them through any of the search engines. Best of luck..and remember…there is ALWAYS different paths to hope. James MacLachlan — "I’ve used up all my sick days…so I’m calling in dead!" -Anon "I’d like to know where shareholders get their power from?? I am wondering where the hell the word "shareholder" is in the American Consitution?" "Let us pause for a moment to recover from the sad news this week that Dan Quayle will not be running for President next year. Potatoe lovers all over America are feeling a sense of loss and I can only say that with Quayle out of the running, all we have to look forward to now is the day when we get to hear more than a sound bite from George W. Bush and realize he’s even dumber than Quayle. There is a reason you have not heard Bush Jr. speak on television for any length of time. The media knows he’s as dense as oatmeal and because they have been so busy touting him as "the front runner" to actually put him on to speak for ten minutes would reveal how not on top of things they really are." Micheal Moore, "The AWFUL Truth"

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: Does anyone know the side effects from Prozak? I have been taking 20mg : daily for a couple of months, and have had a mild headache ever since. It’s : kind of like someone is pushing on my head from above! : Jim — Jim, All AD’s usually have some side-effects but they vary according to the person. I took one dose of 20 mg. of Prozac and had an extreme anxiety attack in the middle of the night. Prozac is an SSRI which is one of the newest drugs available and theoretically has fewer side effects than the older tri-cyclics. They don’t seem to have the tendency to sedate or cause dry-mouth and constipation like the older drugs, but I have had some side effects from Zoloft and Serzone which are fairly new as well. Basically any thing that you notice after being on the drug and didn’t have before could be a side-effect. Quite often the side-effects will go away or dissipate over time, sometimes not. Give it 4-6 weeks if it is not severe headache and then decide if it has helped. If not, you should hav e your doctor try another one. Good Luck! Lise,  Guelph, ON Canada

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Does anyone know the side effects of Prozak. I have been on 20mg a day for a couple of months and have had a strange heavy feeling 24 hours a day! Kind of a very mild dull headache. This was similar to the very reason (Symptom) that I was originally given the Prozak for. Any ideas would be great! Please reply by e-mail Jim

I have the same prescription which includes Xanax.  No side effects, except when I take too much alcohol (beer).  Then I get anxious or close to panic.  I was also on 60 mg of Prosac for years and the only side effect was need to sleep and no libido and that was a fair trade-off as far as I was concerned. —

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Does anyone know the side effects from Prozak? I have been taking 20mg daily for a couple of months, and have had a mild headache ever since. It’s kind of like someone is pushing on my head from above! Jim

 I was on Prozac for about 9 months to one year, it was my first AD and I had a hard time with it. I would have a few night mares and would be sexually uninterested if that is what the word would be. It took away my libido and gave me diarea, both of which were uncomfortable for me. I am no longer taking any medications but this summer I want to try to get back on something. I was also taking 20mg, 10 in the mourning and 10 at night. Then I was moved to just 10 a day, in the morning. Later I switched to wellbutrin and then to zoloft. None of these medications worked the way I wished they would have but I am still going to try again. Shane

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Does anyone know the side effects of Prozak. I have been on 20mg a day for a couple of months and have had a strange heavy feeling 24 hours a day! Kind of a very mild dull headache. This was similar to the very reason (Symptom) that I was originally given the Prozak for. Any ideas would be great! Please reply by e-mail Jim

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