Hi, I was wondering what your opinions/experiances are with regard to brand names vs. generic drugs. I am curious about effectiveness/side effects etc. I think I will be starting on Ritalin but I am interested in your thoughts on what ever it is you take as I know sometimes meds. get switched. Thank You! Vince
I’ve been taking methylphenidate for 4 years now (since age 17) and I’ve definitely noticed a difference between the generic and brand name. Next time I go for a refill I’m going to have my psych. put an exception code on the Rx so my insurance will cover the regular Ritalin because the generic is unpredictable. Perhaps compounding matters is the fact that I’m on the sustained-release form, and generic SR seems to sometimes release too quickly or seemingly not at all. It’s annoying. It’s better than nothing, but when I had the brand name stuff I didn’t have that problem even with the SR. I’d actually like to go back to a more frequent dose of the regular release rather than the SR, but I’ll have to see what my dr. says. Hope this helps, Anne * Sent from AltaVista http://www.altavista.com Where you can also find related Web Pages, Images, Audios, Videos, News, and Shopping. Smart is Beautiful
brand names vs. generic drugs.
My son takes Ritalin SR and only brand name. When he got the generic it made him terribly sick to his stomach and he said the drug effects were different. Not so with brand. Now we have the Dr. write on the prescription ‘medically necessary’ so the pharmacy will give him brand instead of generic. As best I understand it, generic drugs only have to have a certain percentage of the active drug per batch in order to be considered that drug. Therefore, the formulation per pill can be quite undependable. The brand name drugs are more careful to ensure consistency of dosage per pill. Just my .02 worth. Stefanie "Give of yourself unto others and to life, for what you reap is beyond measure or compare" Me…
I’ve been taking methylphenidate for 4 years now (since age 17) and I’ve definitely noticed a difference between the generic and brand name.
A friends son had much the same experience, not with SR, just plain. The brand name worked MUCH better and it was kind of a blind test because he didn’t know of the switch.
I’ve been taking methylphenidate for 4 years now (since age 17) and I’ve definitely noticed a difference between the generic and brand name. A friends son had much the same experience, not with SR, just plain. The brand name worked MUCH better and it was kind of a blind test because he didn’t know of the switch.
When our son was taking Ritalin, we, and his teachers noticed the difference between generic and brand. They would call and ask if we had forgotten to give it to him…. Those were the 10 mg tablets, however. We didn’t notice a big difference in the 20MG slow release, however. Then again, we were living in a different area, and using a different pharmacy. Does anybody know how many pharmaceutical companies make generic? When we originally complained to the first phamacy (large retail grocery chain), their pharmacist got a little huffy and said that their generics were "the finest" or whatever. I know it’s a silly question, but was just wondering….:-) Thanks
I used to work for a Pharmaceutical company that manufactured generics. Although we did not produce a generic for Ritalin, I can say that the company had to follow strict guidelines as to the way the drug performed. The FDA splits hairs before they give approval on a generic drug. One thing I remember them saying was that a drug had to perform within a certain percentage of deviance from the Branded product. If you were taking a gen that was on the outer upper limit and switched to the outer lower limit, that is a big difference from drug to drug. Although my knowlege of this stuff is limited I hope what little I have said has helped…..
That is interesting because my HMO changed their generic methylphenidate about a year and a half ago. The generic they used to have actually worked pretty well, but the stuff they switched to seems to be defective. I tried the regular Ritalin shortly after the switch to the new generic, and it was very effective. Then for some reason my doctor didn’t put the exception code on the Rx, and I had to get the bad generic again. It’s good enough for me to keep paying attention in school, etc., but I never know when I take it if it is going to be a dose that "works" or doesn’t. Anne * Sent from AltaVista http://www.altavista.com Where you can also find related Web Pages, Images, Audios, Videos, News, and Shopping. Smart is Beautiful
This is a good analogy for me as one of the primary reasons for me trying it is to be able to pay attention in class and do homework. I also want it to be able to perform daily chores/maintenance etc. like other people. Vince
be glad they have generic Rialin – I lost my insurance coverage and now a months worth of adderal, which has no generic equivalent, costs over $100…count your blessings
6% would be skin and bones. Steve Freides:
To follow up on this, I contacted a friend of mine who is into competitive body building and his weight is 262lbs with a body fat of 5.5%. The present competitor for the state title has a body fat of 5.3% Suggest you do your homework before making rash statements.
Unless you, too, are a competitive body builder peaking for a competition, you might answer my previous posting that asked who measured you and how. I don’t doubt that people exist with 6% body fat – I’ve seen people with 2% body fat. I’m just trying to ascertain how accurate your pronouncement may or may not be and, given that, as you’ve confirmed, 6% is a figure typical of a body builder and that I know it’s extremely atypical for the general population, I prefer to remain skeptical until you’ve convinced me. -S- – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 6% would be skin and bones. Steve Freides: To follow up on this, I contacted a friend of mine who is into competitive body building and his weight is 262lbs with a body fat of 5.5%. The present competitor for the state title has a body fat of 5.3% Suggest you do your homework before making rash statements.
They pinch your skin and measure it with it with an instrument like caliphers.
, I prefer to remain skeptical until you’ve convinced me
Me convincing you is the least of my concerns. Believe what you want to and keep it to yourself.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 6% would be skin and bones. Steve Freides: To follow up on this, I contacted a friend of mine who is into competitive body building and his weight is 262lbs with a body fat of 5.5%. The present competitor for the state title has a body fat of 5.3% Suggest you do your homework before making rash statements.
Isn’t it about time to take this pissing contest back into the locker room and out of public space? Lp
The Bowman’s 6% would be very unusual if it were true. Let’s get one thing straight. I don’t lie period! This 6% was given to me by the wellness center where I exercise. The 6% was given to me by the exercise dept at the wellness
How did the wellness folks test you? Skinfold calipers? Underwater weighing? An electronic scale? Body Mass Index? Although we’re off our main topic here, I would be glad to comment on the accuracy of those methods. -S-
Just teasing you Bowman.
Bob I like good humor and joking but I don’t like someone to insinuate that I am a liar when I can’s face him.
Just teasing you Bowman. Bob I like good humor and joking but I don’t like someone to insinuate that I am a liar when I can’s face him.
I’m with you Bowman.
Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Content-Transfer-Encoding: 8bit The Bowman’s 6% would be very unusual if it were true.
Ted Edwards responded: I was also very surprised at that. I am a long thin type and have weighed the same +/-5 lbs since I was 21 (I’m now 67). A doctor friend who is heavily into sports medicine claimed he estimated me at 10% body fat. 6% would be skin and bones.
Steve Freides: Denice, if you’d like some advice regarding your diet and exercise, I suggest you try the newsgroups devoted to that. There are a few under misc.fitness.
Ted Edwards: There is a lot of good stuff on the www but one needs to keep their used hay filter fully operational! Ted
I too have narrow dimensions but have never had my body fat percentage measured or estimated. 180 cm tall (71"), weigh 48 kg (106#), but was up to 65 kg in early adulthood. I figure my fat reserve must be very low. I see there are some alt.support.diet.* newsgroups.
Let’s get one thing straight. I don’t lie period! This 6% was given to me by the wellness center where I exercise. The 6% was given to me by the exercise dept at the wellness
I know people who have similar amounts of body fat. It is uncommon but not unusual. "It’s not American foreign policy, or the plight of the Palestinians, or America’s longstanding support for Israel. A group of people with money and weaponry have simply decided that we, as a civilization, are unfit to live, and want, eventally, to exterminate us." ‘Christian Century’ magazine
The Bowman’s 6% would be very unusual if it were true.
I was also very surprised at that. I am a long thin type and have weighed the same +/-5 lbs since I was 21 (I’m now 67). A doctor friend who is heavily into sports medicine claimed he estimated me at 10% body fat. 6% would be skin and bones. Denice, if you’d like some advice regarding your diet and exercise, I suggest you try the newsgroups devoted to that. There are a few under misc.fitness.
There is a lot of good stuff on the www but one needs to keep their used hay filter fully operational! Ted
The Bowman’s 6% would be very unusual if it were true.
Let’s get one thing straight. I don’t lie period! This 6% was given to me by the wellness center where I exercise. The 6% was given to me by the exercise dept at the wellness
The Bowman’s 6% would be very unusual if it were true. Let’s get one thing straight. I don’t lie period! This 6% was given to me by the wellness center where I exercise.
Down Bowman! We believe you. We believe you. Winter is approaching Bowman. You might consider bolstering your greater omentum and subcutaneous fat stores to give you a little more healthy reserve.
might consider bolstering your greater omentum and subcutaneous fat stores to give you a little more healthy reserve.
Bob, I like my lean mean machine.
might consider bolstering your greater omentum and subcutaneous fat stores to give you a little more healthy reserve. Bob, I like my lean mean machine.
Good, because halloween is almost upon us, and just think, you don’t have to decide what costume to wear. You can go as a skeleton! (Just teasing you Bowman. I envy your body fat percentage. Mine always seems to push the envelope at 25%.)
The important thing is to maintain a healthy body fat percentage. Colin, what is a correct percentage? mine is 6% body fat.
Here are some links: http://www.shapeup.org/bodylab/basics/know3.asp http://www.healthchecksystems.com/bodyfat.htm http://www.he.net/~zone/prothd2.html "It’s not American foreign policy, or the plight of the Palestinians, or America’s longstanding support for Israel. A group of people with money and weaponry have simply decided that we, as a civilization, are unfit to live, and want, eventally, to exterminate us." ‘Christian Century’ magazine
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Pulmicort 200 mcg. 1 inhale, twice daily. I also do Combivent ( 2 puffs, 2x a day) and Serevent Diskus..along with Rhinocort Aqua & Singulair for 2 yrs. now. I initially lost some weight (not much)..and don’t by habit get on the scale. But then you have the weigh-in’s at the PCP’s and they always find a way of "blurting" it out. At least this new doctor does. I exercise 5 days a week for 35-40 minutes and don’t sit all day and eat. Because of also having a cholesterol problem I am conscience of labels and portions as best as I can. I know my Allergist has suggested that I stop the Pulmicort and have once..not a good experience! And have tried to go to a once daily dose with no luck. I need to exercise but don’t want to suffer trying. It was just a jolt and am feeling frustrated. You are aware that exercise builds weight because muscle is more dense than fat.
Please tread very lightly here. From reading much research and based on much experience, both personal and that of friends and family I have helped, I can tell you that adding muscle mass is very difficult to do for most healthy adult males, and orders of magnitude more difficult to do for a female (which, I presume, "Denice" is). Unless one eats very carefully and works out just the right way, muscle mass gain simply does not happen for the overwhelming majority of the adult population. The appearance of more muscle is not uncommon in those new to exercise, particularly those who have lost some body fat, but the reality of increased lean muscle mass is different than the appearance of more residual muscle tension in what are essentially the same size muscles now covered in a little less fat. People you see who bulge muscle quite often take anabolic steroids to get that way, too. Denice’s experience is quite common – an initial weight loss at the beginning of an exercise program, then the weight returns as the body adapts. Keeping the body losing weight through exercise after the first few months requires different things than it does at the beginning. Your weight is not that important. The important thing is to maintain a healthy body fat percentage.
The Bowman’s 6% would be very unusual if it were true. That’s often what a professional (read: usually drug using) body builder would achieve in preparation for a competition but could not maintain year-round. Denice, if you’d like some advice regarding your diet and exercise, I suggest you try the newsgroups devoted to that. There are a few under misc.fitness. Steve "regular on misc.fitness.weights and alt.sport.weightlifting"
spake thusly: Has anyone had a weight gain while starting or being on inhaled corticosteroids? Denice
Therer are dozens and dozens of studies indicating that, while inhaled corticosteroids do carry a small chance of producing systemic efects, weight gain was never observed as a direct result of usage. Far more common are things such as thrush mouth, etc.
The important thing is to maintain a healthy body fat percentage.
Colin, what is a correct percentage? mine is 6% body fat.
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone had a weight gain while starting or being on inhaled corticosteroids? The manufacturer’s product literature for Flovent states that while systemic side effects weren’t observed during clinical trials, post-marketing experience of some patients reported weight gain, as well as other systemic side effects. Inhaled steroids do carry some risk of systemic side effects that can resemble some of the side effects of oral steroids. Especially in large doses. And some folks may be more sensitive to systemic side effects than others. Which inhaled steroid are you using? What dose, and for how long? — Steven D. Litvintchouk Pulmicort 200 mcg. 1 inhale, twice daily. I also do Combivent ( 2 puffs, 2x a day) and Serevent Diskus..along with Rhinocort Aqua & Singulair for 2 yrs. now. I initially lost some weight (not much)..and don’t by habit get on the scale. But then you have the weigh-in’s at the PCP’s and they always find a way of "blurting" it out. At least this new doctor does. I exercise 5 days a week for 35-40 minutes and don’t sit all day and eat.
One way that oral steroids can cause weight gain, is from salt retention (which in turn causes fluid retention). Have you tried eating a lower-salt, higher-potassium diet? That kind of diet can minimize the fluid retention side effect of oral steroids. — Steven D. Litvintchouk
I take Pulmicort 1 puff 2 x daily, Flonase and Singulair. My weight remained stable on Pulmicort but has been gradually and noticeably increasing since beginning Singulair about 22 months before. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone had a weight gain while starting or being on inhaled corticosteroids? The manufacturer’s product literature for Flovent states that while systemic side effects weren’t observed during clinical trials, post-marketing experience of some patients reported weight gain, as well as other systemic side effects. Inhaled steroids do carry some risk of systemic side effects that can resemble some of the side effects of oral steroids. Especially in large doses. And some folks may be more sensitive to systemic side effects than others. Which inhaled steroid are you using? What dose, and for how long? — Steven D. Litvintchouk Pulmicort 200 mcg. 1 inhale, twice daily. I also do Combivent ( 2 puffs, 2x a day) and Serevent Diskus..along with Rhinocort Aqua & Singulair for 2 yrs. now. I initially lost some weight (not much)..and don’t by habit get on the scale. But then you have the weigh-in’s at the PCP’s and they always find a way of "blurting" it out. At least this new doctor does. I exercise 5 days a week for 35-40 minutes and don’t sit all day and eat. Because of also having a cholesterol problem I am conscience of labels and portions as best as I can. I know my Allergist has suggested that I stop the Pulmicort and have once..not a good experience! And have tried to go to a once daily dose with no luck. I need to exercise but don’t want to suffer trying. It was just a jolt and am feeling frustrated.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone had a weight gain while starting or being on inhaled corticosteroids? The manufacturer’s product literature for Flovent states that while systemic side effects weren’t observed during clinical trials, post-marketing experience of some patients reported weight gain, as well as other systemic side effects. Inhaled steroids do carry some risk of systemic side effects that can resemble some of the side effects of oral steroids. Especially in large doses. And some folks may be more sensitive to systemic side effects than others. Which inhaled steroid are you using? What dose, and for how long? — Steven D. Litvintchouk
Pulmicort 200 mcg. 1 inhale, twice daily. I also do Combivent ( 2 puffs, 2x a day) and Serevent Diskus..along with Rhinocort Aqua & Singulair for 2 yrs. now. I initially lost some weight (not much)..and don’t by habit get on the scale. But then you have the weigh-in’s at the PCP’s and they always find a way of "blurting" it out. At least this new doctor does. I exercise 5 days a week for 35-40 minutes and don’t sit all day and eat. Because of also having a cholesterol problem I am conscience of labels and portions as best as I can. I know my Allergist has suggested that I stop the Pulmicort and have once..not a good experience! And have tried to go to a once daily dose with no luck. I need to exercise but don’t want to suffer trying. It was just a jolt and am feeling frustrated.
Pulmicort 200 mcg. 1 inhale, twice daily. I also do Combivent ( 2 puffs, 2x a day) and Serevent Diskus..along with Rhinocort Aqua & Singulair for 2 yrs. now. I initially lost some weight (not much)..and don’t by habit get on the scale. But then you have the weigh-in’s at the PCP’s and they always find a way of "blurting" it out. At least this new doctor does. I exercise 5 days a week for 35-40 minutes and don’t sit all day and eat. Because of also having a cholesterol problem I am conscience of labels and portions as best as I can. I know my Allergist has suggested that I stop the Pulmicort and have once..not a good experience! And have tried to go to a once daily dose with no luck. I need to exercise but don’t want to suffer trying. It was just a jolt and am feeling frustrated.
You are aware that exercise builds weight because muscle is more dense than fat. Your weight is not that important. The important thing is to maintain a healthy body fat percentage. "It’s not American foreign policy, or the plight of the Palestinians, or America’s longstanding support for Israel. A group of people with money and weaponry have simply decided that we, as a civilization, are unfit to live, and want, eventally, to exterminate us." ‘Christian Century’ magazine
Has anyone had a weight gain while starting or being on inhaled corticosteroids? Denice
Has anyone had a weight gain while starting or being on inhaled corticosteroids?
The manufacturer’s product literature for Flovent states that while systemic side effects weren’t observed during clinical trials, post-marketing experience of some patients reported weight gain, as well as other systemic side effects. Inhaled steroids do carry some risk of systemic side effects that can resemble some of the side effects of oral steroids. Especially in large doses. And some folks may be more sensitive to systemic side effects than others. Which inhaled steroid are you using? What dose, and for how long? — Steven D. Litvintchouk
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello all, After taking Adderall XR 20mg for over six months with no side effects (other than some weight loss), I’ve developed shaking hands over the last month. I was thinking maybe I got a bad batch of Adderall from the pharmacist last time, but this new batch is having the same effect. My doctor has no explanation. The only change is I’ve started taking Prozac each day, but my doc says this should have no impact on my symptoms. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated! -N2 Strange… And it isn’t parkinsons? What does your doctor tells you??? no explenation? Hmmmm…my essential tremor is reduced when I am taking methylphenidate (concerta, ritalin)…I wonder if there is a connection? It’s the strangest thing I ever heard. Because methylphenidate isn’t the same as L-dopa and it isn’t effective against tremors from parkinsons. So it’s strange…
<G I do not care if it is "coincidental"….or even placebo….as long as it works <g But, from what I understand, doesn’t methylphenidate work on the dopamine levels in the patient? Besides, parkinsons is not the same thing as essential tremor…though it does appear that having ET might increase the chances of getting parkinson’s… http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Essential_tremor Mine currently is only in my hands (as is my mother’s)…my grandfather’s was in in hands, his arms, and showed up in his gait as well…the weird thing is, it shows up when I am "at rest," but when I do something with my hands (such as play guitar), I do not tremble as much (i.e,. when my hands are resting against the guitar, they might tremble a bit, but when then are pressed down to hold a chord, the whole guitar is not shaking, and the hand stops shaking). — Buny " Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal." ~ Albert Camus
Hello all, After taking Adderall XR 20mg for over six months with no side effects (other than some weight loss), I’ve developed shaking hands over the last month. I was thinking maybe I got a bad batch of Adderall from the pharmacist last time, but this new batch is having the same effect. My doctor has no explanation. The only change is I’ve started taking Prozac each day, but my doc says this should have no impact on my symptoms. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated! -N2
Hello all, After taking Adderall XR 20mg for over six months with no side effects (other than some weight loss), I’ve developed shaking hands over the last month. I was thinking maybe I got a bad batch of Adderall from the pharmacist last time, but this new batch is having the same effect. My doctor has no explanation. The only change is I’ve started taking Prozac each day, but my doc says this should have no impact on my symptoms. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated!
Does the shaking go away when you stop taking the Adderall? Priscilla
Hello all, After taking Adderall XR 20mg for over six months with no side effects (other than some weight loss), I’ve developed shaking hands over the last month. I was thinking maybe I got a bad batch of Adderall from the pharmacist last time, but this new batch is having the same effect. My doctor has no explanation. The only change is I’ve started taking Prozac each day, but my doc says this should have no impact on my symptoms. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated!
It sounds like the Prozac to me – that’s what has changed.
Hello all, After taking Adderall XR 20mg for over six months with no side effects (other than some weight loss), I’ve developed shaking hands over the last month. I was thinking maybe I got a bad batch of Adderall from the pharmacist last time, but this new batch is having the same effect. My doctor has no explanation. The only change is I’ve started taking Prozac each day, but my doc says this should have no impact on my symptoms. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated! -N2
Strange… And it isn’t parkinsons? What does your doctor tells you??? no explenation?
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello all, After taking Adderall XR 20mg for over six months with no side effects (other than some weight loss), I’ve developed shaking hands over the last month. I was thinking maybe I got a bad batch of Adderall from the pharmacist last time, but this new batch is having the same effect. My doctor has no explanation. The only change is I’ve started taking Prozac each day, but my doc says this should have no impact on my symptoms. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated! -N2 Strange… And it isn’t parkinsons? What does your doctor tells you??? no explenation?
Hmmmm…my essential tremor is reduced when I am taking methylphenidate (concerta, ritalin)…I wonder if there is a connection? — Buny " Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal." ~ Albert Camus
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello all, After taking Adderall XR 20mg for over six months with no side effects (other than some weight loss), I’ve developed shaking hands over the last month. I was thinking maybe I got a bad batch of Adderall from the pharmacist last time, but this new batch is having the same effect. My doctor has no explanation. The only change is I’ve started taking Prozac each day, but my doc says this should have no impact on my symptoms. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated! -N2 Strange… And it isn’t parkinsons? What does your doctor tells you??? no explenation? Hmmmm…my essential tremor is reduced when I am taking methylphenidate (concerta, ritalin)…I wonder if there is a connection?
It’s the strangest thing I ever heard. Because methylphenidate isn’t the same as L-dopa and it isn’t effective against tremors from parkinsons. So it’s strange… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – — Buny " Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal." ~ Albert Camus
Chip, I think you were right. It’s the Effexor withdrawal. I added the extra 37.5 mgs. a little while ago. I’ll do 112.5 for another few days and that’ll make two weeks, then 75 for two weeks, etc. I feel a little better, but I don’t know if it’s the added mgs., the 3 Gravol or the 1.5 mgs. of Ativan. :-) Thanks Chip. Hugs, Di — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
I hope you feel better real soon Diane. Deirdre — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Chip, I think you were right. It’s the Effexor withdrawal. I added the extra 37.5 mgs. a little while ago. I’ll do 112.5 for another few days and that’ll make two weeks, then 75 for two weeks, etc. I feel a little better, but I don’t know if it’s the added mgs., the 3 Gravol or the 1.5 mgs. of Ativan. :-) Thanks Chip. Hugs, Di
Di, Did you try taking any benadryl? I read somewhere that benadryl can help with Effexor withdrawal. Best, JimD — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Thanks Deirdre. It’ll pass, but not quick enough for me. :-) Love, Di
I hope you feel better real soon Diane. Deirdre
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Chip, I think you were right. It’s the Effexor withdrawal. I added the extra 37.5 mgs. a little while ago. I’ll do 112.5 for another few days and that’ll make two weeks, then 75 for two weeks, etc. I feel a little better, but I don’t know if it’s the added mgs., the 3 Gravol or the 1.5 mgs. of Ativan. :-) Thanks Chip. Hugs, Di Di, Did you try taking any benadryl? I read somewhere that benadryl can help with Effexor withdrawal. Best, JimD
Are you kidding? I never heard of that before. Thanks Jim! I wish I knew because we were out just now, but I’m too tired to go back out. Maybe we can buy some tomorrow. Hugs, Di — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
~*~Chip, I think you were right. It’s the Effexor withdrawal. I added the ~*~extra 37.5 mgs. a little while ago. I’ll do 112.5 for another few days and ~*~that’ll make two weeks, then 75 for two weeks, etc. I feel a little better, ~*~but I don’t know if it’s the added mgs., the 3 Gravol or the 1.5 mgs. of ~*~Ativan. :-) Thanks Chip. Dear Di, Sorry you are feeling lousy! Hoping tomorrow will be a better day for you. (((((Di))))) Jackie ~*~Advice is like snow – the softer it falls, the longer it dwells upon, and the deeper it sinks into the mind~*~ ~~By Samuel Taylor Coleridge.~~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ~*~Chip, I think you were right. It’s the Effexor withdrawal. I added the ~*~extra 37.5 mgs. a little while ago. I’ll do 112.5 for another few days and ~*~that’ll make two weeks, then 75 for two weeks, etc. I feel a little better, ~*~but I don’t know if it’s the added mgs., the 3 Gravol or the 1.5 mgs. of ~*~Ativan. :-) Thanks Chip. Dear Di, Sorry you are feeling lousy! Hoping tomorrow will be a better day for you. (((((Di))))) Jackie
Thanks so much Jackie. I hope so too. I feel a little better right now. Love, Di — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Hi, Di, Please don’t rush too quickly with the withdrawal. Take it at whatever pace feels good for you. smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Chip, I think you were right. It’s the Effexor withdrawal. I added the extra 37.5 mgs. a little while ago. I’ll do 112.5 for another few days and that’ll make two weeks, then 75 for two weeks, etc. I feel a little better, but I don’t know if it’s the added mgs., the 3 Gravol or the 1.5 mgs. of Ativan. :-) Thanks Chip. Hugs, Di — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
Thank you Elise. I went back up to 112.5 and will stay there for a few more days and then drop back to 75 for two weeks. I think that’s comfortable for me right now. Love, Di
Hi, Di, Please don’t rush too quickly with the withdrawal. Take it at whatever pace feels good for you. smiles, Elise
– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm
I am on a clinical study and just found out that I have been taking exemestane for the last year instead of tamoxfin. I was sure I was taking Tamoxfin. I had hot flashes so bad I thought that you could time them like labor pains. They told me that the pills are really expensive and that they will pay for them for the next 4 years. The Dr.s upped the effexor to 150 mg and now I only have 5-8 hot flashes a day. I do have 2 bone density test a year. dx 8/02 lumpectomy 9/03 chemo and rads. Nancy
I am on a clinical study and just found out that I have been taking exemestane for the last year instead of tamoxfin. I was sure I was taking Tamoxfin. I had hot flashes so bad I thought that you could time them like labor pains. They told me that the pills are really expensive and that they will pay for them for the next 4 years. The Dr.s upped the effexor to 150 mg and now I only have 5-8 hot flashes a day. I do have 2 bone density test a year. dx 8/02 lumpectomy 9/03 chemo and rads. Nancy
Are you getting Zometa? If not you should probably ask about it. Helps keep your bones strong. – Tony — Tony Lima /" ASCII ribbon campaign / against HTML mail X and postings /
At my Dec blood work it came back where I had to much calcium, then came more test. so far everthing is ok. My Blood work from Monday 3/9/04 the liver test had some concern so I need to have that redone next week. I will ask at that time about Zometa. Thanks Nancy
I have tappered down my Effexor dose (with Doctor supervision, over ~ 2 months, from 75 mg XR, once daily) to the lowest I can get, which is 37.5 mg, which I take in the morning. Suprisinlgy with it’s short half life, I seem to feel no withdrawl effects by the end of the day. However, now my dose is zero, and I think, after 24 hours, I began to feel some withdrawl effects. It’s best described (by others) as a brain zap (a bit like vertigo). It seems not an uncommon effect. I have s light headache, some fatigue, but certianly not incapacitating. But it does freak me out and I am battling not to take a tablet to make it go away. I went on AD when I had some health issues. Freaky things happening to my body don’t help me very much. I have only been Effexor free for 48 h, it does seem to be getting a little worse. Can anyone suggest how long I need to stick it out ? One week ? One month ? It seems to vary person to person, but a guide would be good. My Doc has no advice on this. Appreciated, RDJ
You did a good taper-down, but effexor is notoriously hell to wash-out. 10 days to 2 weeks is the norm. This is a stupid suggestion, but I was helped by using Thera-flu (or the generic versions)…you know, those hot lemon-flavored antihistamine thingies? Jim M.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have tappered down my Effexor dose (with Doctor supervision, over ~ 2 months, from 75 mg XR, once daily) to the lowest I can get, which is 37.5 mg, which I take in the morning. Suprisinlgy with it’s short half life, I seem to feel no withdrawl effects by the end of the day. However, now my dose is zero, and I think, after 24 hours, I began to feel some withdrawl effects. It’s best described (by others) as a brain zap (a bit like vertigo). It seems not an uncommon effect. I have s light headache, some fatigue, but certianly not incapacitating. But it does freak me out and I am battling not to take a tablet to make it go away. I went on AD when I had some health issues. Freaky things happening to my body don’t help me very much. I have only been Effexor free for 48 h, it does seem to be getting a little worse. Can anyone suggest how long I need to stick it out ? One week ? One month ? It seems to vary person to person, but a guide would be good. My Doc has no advice on this. Appreciated, RDJ
Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately, I couldn’t hack the withdrawl and took a tab. Bad thing is, I felt better within an hour. I was hoping waht I was feeling was unrelated to withdrawl, maybe juat a vrius or something. I am now taking 37.5 mg every second day. By the end of the second day, I start to feel the withdrawl. I intend to do this for a week or so to get to know what thw withdrawl feels like, so I am less freaked out by it. In Australia, 37.5 mg seems to be the lowest dose available, according to my Doc. I am not confident of tablet splitting. The lemon things are around. Do you think it’s the anti-histamnine that does the job ? You did a good taper-down, but effexor is notoriously hell to wash-out. 10 days to 2 weeks is the norm. This is a stupid suggestion, but I was helped by using Thera-flu (or the generic versions)…you know, those hot lemon-flavored antihistamine thingies? Jim M.
[snip]
6 months or so ago my pdoc tried weaning me off effexor. From 150mg on down…when I hit 37.5 I started withrawal. Dizzy, headache, felt like I was walkin sidewys, brain zaps, nausea. I was put on Wellbuterin. I eventually got totally off. AAAHHHH I called my pdoc crying just having a fit becase I vomited twice. The depression was awaful. I had forgotten how disgusting depression was. Waves of major depression. I did use some benedryl which did help some. So he put me back on Effexor. I am on lithium, lamictal, effexor, ativan and restoril. In my out of mind state I was crying, "with all the drugs I am on how can this happen??!" just crying a way. First he tried clinical terms….forget it, I barely knew where I was. So he put it to me like this, " You have a car, it has a body, wheels and an engine also a steering wheel. You can have all that but, if you do not have the key you cannot start the car you aren’t going anywhere. Effexor is one of your keys. If you do not have it with your other meds you do not receive what your brain needs." Good luck with your effexor. When I was put back on I felt so much better. maridee
*
The interesting thing with St. John’s Wort, is that it alters the ‘mood/mind’ enough to allow an objective and clear perspective of the Self. And therefore a clear insight into those parts of the Self that causes the depression. Is your intent to clear yourself of the depression?… or clear yourself of the sources of that depression?
Translation: SJW is not strong enough to cure many cases of depression by itself, and works best with psychotherapy combination. By extension, an SSRI plus that kind of psychotherapy ought to be better yet? —
commonly used slow serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
ROTFL! What a load of BS … — -john
Recent studies have shown SJW to be equally as effective as Zoloft (sertraline) and Prozac (fluoxetine) in mild to moderate depression. It also seems to have a better side-effect profile. See the references below: – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – Equivalence of St John’s wort extract (Ze 117) and fluoxetine: a randomized, controlled study in mild-moderate depression. Schrader E Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2000 Mar;15(2):61-8 Treatment with St John’s wort extract tablets (hypericum Ze 117) and the commonly used slow serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine was compared in patients with mild-moderate depression with entry Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D) (21-item) in the range 16-24, in a randomized, double-blind, parallel group comparison in 240 subjects; fluoxetine: 114 (48%), hypericum: 126 (52%). After 6 weeks’ treatment, mean HAM-D at endpoint decreased to 11.54 on hypericum and to 12.20 on fluoxetine (P < 0.09), while mean Clinical Global Impression (CGI) item I (severity) was significantly (P < 0.03) superior on hypericum, as was the responder rate (P = 0.005). Hypericum safety was substantially superior to fluoxetine, with the incidence of adverse events being 23% on fluoxetine and 8% on hypericum. The commonest events on fluoxetine were agitation (8%), GI disturbances (6%), retching (4%), dizziness (4%), tiredness, anxiety/nervousness and erectile dysfunction (3% each), while on hypericum only GI disturbances (5%) had an incidence greater than 2%. We concluded that hypericum and fluoxetine are equipotent with respect to all main parameters used to investigate antidepressants in this population. Although hypericum may be superior in improving the responder rate, the main difference between the two treatments is safety. Hypericum was superior to fluoxetine in overall incidence of side-effects, number of patients with side-effects and the type of side-effect reported. – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – "Comparison of an extract of hypericum (LI 160) and sertraline in the treatment of depression: a double-blind, randomized pilot study." Brenner R, Azbel V, Madhusoodanan S, Pawlowska M Clin Ther 2000 Apr;22(4):411-9 BACKGROUND: Hypericum (St. John’s wort) has been shown to be as efficacious and well tolerated as standard antidepressants in the treatment of depression but has not been compared with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). OBJECTIVE: This study compared hypericum and the SSRI sertraline in the treatment of depression. METHODS: In a double-blind, randomized study conducted in a community hospital, 30 male and female outpatients (19 women, 11 men; mean age, 45.5 years) with mild to moderate depression received 600 mg/d of a standardized extract of hypericum (LI 160) or 50 mg/d sertraline for I week, followed by hypericum 900 mg/d or sertraline 75 mg/d for 6 weeks. RESULTS: The severity of symptoms, as assessed by scores on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) and the Clinical Global Impression scale, was significantly reduced in both treatment groups (P < 0.01). Clinical response (defined as a or =50% reduction in HAM-D scores) was noted in 47% of patients receiving hypericum and 40% of those receiving sertraline. The difference was not statistically significant. Both agents were well tolerated. A post hoc power analysis indicated that failure to reach statistical significance between treatments resulted primarily from an absence of clinical differences rather than the small sample size. CONCLUSION: The hypericum extract was at least as effective as sertraline in the treatment of mild to moderate depression in a small group of outpatients.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The interesting thing with St. John’s Wort, is that it alters the ‘mood/mind’ enough to allow an objective and clear perspective of the Self. And therefore a clear insight into those parts of the Self that causes the depression. Is your intent to clear yourself of the depression?… or clear yourself of the sources of that depression? Translation: SJW is not strong enough to cure many cases of depression by itself, and works best with psychotherapy combination. By extension, an SSRI plus that kind of psychotherapy ought to be better yet? —
com for the reply address.
I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety.
Here is some info. I found on St. John’s Wort and OCD: "Gridrunner: Have you heard of some success using St. John’s Wort or 5-htp to lessen OCD? Dr. Jenike: Yes, there are a few cases where St. John’s Wort has helped OCD. In Germany, there are dozens of studies using SJW for mild to moderate depression, but its use for treating OCD is relatively new. I have tried it in quite a few patients, with not much success. But then again, most of the patients I see now, are on the more severe end of the spectrum." – http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/OCD/site/transcripts/obsession s_ocd.htm See also: http://www.biopsychiatry.com/stjohnocd.htm
Dear R.P., I have used Kava for anxiety and it does help though if your anxiety is high it may take a few days for it to really catch up with you. To be on it is to be mellow but alert at the same time so I think it would help with OCD. Rusty
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety. Thank you.
In article < "Bill & Ida Kern" < My psychiatrist said it was useless for OCD. Only good for *mild* depression. Ida
The interesting thing with St. John’s Wort, is that it alters the ‘mood/mind’ enough to allow an objective and clear perspective of the Self. And therefore a clear insight into those parts of the Self that causes the depression. Is your intent to clear yourself of the depression?… or clear yourself of the sources of that depression? The Wort (like LSD; magic mushrooms; kava-kava) open-up the psyche for deeper investigation… rather than offer a cure-all. Later Gerrit
My psychiatrist said it was useless for OCD. Only good for *mild* depression. Ida
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety. Thank you.
I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety. Thank you.
I am interested in info. on St. John’s Wort and Kava for OCD and anxiety. Thank you.
I had a lot of luck with Kava Kava for anxiety, but it brought back eczema that had lain dormant for over 6 years (and which I have yet to get rid of). Take care if you have any dermatological problems.
I can hardly keep my thoughts together today…..I’m not going in to work again today. ….and, when I called in, she tried to make me feel guilty. It’s almost like my hormones override these medications. I become overly sensitive, irritable, paranoid, fearful, anxious, restless…..just to name a few symptoms. I know that stupid depo shot is still in my system. I can feel it. I don’t have anything to grip on to, and this is a horrible feeling. Maybe that’s why that show Greed kept my heart pounding last night. I know this will go away in a few days, but what do I do in the meantime? I haven’t done a "pity party" post for awhile, so I guess it was overdue. My doc is out of town AGAIN for the weekend….. I feel like Sharyn today…..I just want to cry. 
( Maria
Thanks Chip, I really like these articles…. For anyone interested, or that has PMS problems… I took the other half of my celexa pill the other day, (because of feeling horrible, and PMS) and noticed quite immediate effects….as I was laying down for a nap, I realized she had given me 40 mg. tabs, which I break in half so they last me 2 months, or so that I can increase to 40 if I want to. So, it turns out I’ve been taking double my usual dosage these past couple days. (It never occurred to me, because I always broke my paxil in half). Well, the funny part is when I did this once before, not during PMS…..I was so tired, I could barely walk. This time, I feel great…..no PMS symptoms!! Today I feel very calm….and, even spent the day at the mall with some friends, (which usually makes me cranky being around crowds for long periods of time). I wasn’t a bit irritated…and, before the extra celexa I was a wreck. Now, I’m curious to see the effect it will have on me after my period….if it will be too high of a dose. I really like this 40 mg. right now. Just an interesting self observation of my situation…. Bye, Maria
: : Valerie Davis Raskin, MD, wrote a very good book titled, : "When Words Are Not Enough; The Women’s Prescription for : Depression and Anxiety." The book is not too expensive : and written for the general public, so you may want to : buy a copy via Amazon or some other book shop. It covers : a lot of issues that are important to women who suffer : from anxiety and depression. : : Thankyou for that information Arthur. I remember it being one of the trivia : questions, but I didn’t know what it was about. : Maria I had originally bought the book for my mother. However, she didn’t read it at first (being very psychoanalysis oriented) so I borrowed it for a while. The book is very practical; with chapters on sex, pregnancy, menstral cycles, etc. It addresses medication questions that I often see posted here in ASAP and has some nice tables on medications. I’m tempted to buy a copy for my own little anxiety-panic library. Which reminds me, mom still has my copy of Sheehan. I ought to start distributing library cards (grin). Best Wishes, Arthur
Biological Therapies in Psychiatry Alan J. Gelenberg, M.D. Treating PMS While most women experience some physical and emotional changes premenstrually, a minority are clinically impaired by the premenstrual syndrome (PMS). For ages, unproven and largely ineffectual remedies were promulgated. In recent years, however, greater methodologic rigor has enhanced clinical research on this condition. Better still, the advent of the serotonin-selective reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants has shown that medication can alleviate PMS symptoms and reverse dysfunction. Several recent reviews present evidence and knowledgeable opinions on treating PMS. Dr Walter Brown notes that SSRIs have a much more rapid onset of action when used to treat PMS than when the same drugs are used to treat depression. (1) PMS symptoms improve almost immediately, while depressive symptoms typically take several weeks to lift. This author also observes that while serotonergic, noradrenergic, and other agents appear equal in efficacy when treating depression, only highly serotonergic antidepressants are effective for PMS. Further evidence for the role of serotonin in PMS is that tryptophan, the essential amino acid that serves as a dietary precursor for serotonin, and fenfluramine (Pondimin and Redux), which stimulates serotonin neurotransmission, also appear effective against PMS. Moreover, women with PMS show abnormalities in blood serotonin. What about other antidepressants? Yonkers and Brown write about an ongoing, multicenter trial of venlafaxine (Effexor) for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). (2) Venlafaxine can be started at 25 mg bid to manage side effects and then increased by 25 to 37.5 mg/day each cycle until remission is achieved. Investigators hope venlafaxine’s rapid onset of action will be beneficial in this type of intermittent disorder. An open trial suggested that nefazodone (Serzone) may be effective against PMDD or premenstrual exacerbation (PME) of a preexisting mood disorder when administered in daily doses of 200 to 500 mg throughout the menstrual cycle. Anxiolytic agents too might have a role to play. Limited data suggest possible efficacy for buspirone (Buspar). Yonkers and Brown also use alprazolam (Xanax) for women with mild PMS symptoms of limited duration. They recommend a starting dose of 0.25 mg bid or tid, increased as needed. In many studies of drugs to treat PMS, agents are administered daily throughout the month. But some women appear to benefit from taking a drug only during the premenstrual week or starting with the first symptom and ending with the beginning of menses. For example, clomipramine (Anafranil) is efficacious when administered only in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Although there are no systematic data on the long-term use of drugs for premenstrual disorders, Yonkers and Brown state that symptom relief appears to be maintained. What else can be done to combat PMS symptoms? Pearlstein cites recommendations to increase complex carbohydrate consumption. (3) When combined with more frequent meals, this strategy might enhance cerebral uptake of tryptophan, thereby making more serotonin available. Some women find exercise alleviates symptoms. Other nonpharmacologic strategies include cognitive behavioral therapy and relaxation training. When symptoms of PMS, PMDD, or PME rise to the level of clinical significance, serotonergic antidepressants often can bring relief, with dosage and timing individualized for each patient. Recommendations for diet, exercise, and other nonpharmacologic strategies — as alternatives or additions to drug treatment — also can be considered based on preferences and circumstances. (1) Brown WA: PMS: A quiet breakthrough. Psychiatr Ann 1996; 26: 569-570. (2) Yonkers KA, Brown WA: Pharmacologic treatments for premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Psychiatr Ann 1996; 26: 586-589. (3) Pearlstein T: Nonpharmacologic treatment of premenstrual syndrome. Psychiatr Ann 1996; 26: 590-594.
Thanks Chip, I’m actually saving this in my files. BTW, I do feel much better today, and will from now on increase my celexa dose during PMS. I’ve actually learned a lot over the last couple of days. I apologize if I snapped anyone’s head off in the meantime. Bye, Maria – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Int Clin Psychopharmacol 1999 May;14 Suppl 2:S27-33 Serotonin reuptake inhibitors for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoria. Eriksson E Department of Pharmacology, Goteborg University, Sweden. Premenstrual dysphoria (PMD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome, afflicting approximately 5% of all women of fertile age. The cardinal symptoms are irritability and anger. In addition, sadness, tension and carbohydrate craving are common complaints. The symptoms surface regularly between ovulation and menstruation, and disappear completely within a few days after the onset of the bleeding; in patients with remaining symptoms during the follicular phase, alternative diagnoses should be considered. In a large number of recent trials, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (clomipramine, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline) have been shown to reduce the symptoms of PMD much more effectively than placebo; in contrast, non-serotonergic antidepressants (maprotiline, bupropion) appear to be ineffective. Interestingly, the onset of action of clomipramine and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is much shorter when used for PMD than when used for depression, panic disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Consequently, patients with PMD can restrict the medication to the luteal phase of the cycle. In a recent placebo-controlled trial, intermittent administration of the SSRI citalopram was shown to reduce the symptoms of PMD significantly better than placebo, but also better than continuous administration of the drug. A reasonable interpretation of the latter, unexpected finding is that continuous medication may be associated with a certain development of tolerance than can be avoided by intermittent drug administration. The observation that the symptoms of PMD may be effectively reduced by SSRIs is of considerable clinical importance since previously no effective treatment for this common condition – apart from those disrupting ovarian cyclicity – has been available. It is also of theoretical importance because it constitutes one of the first pharmacological observations supporting the concept that serotonin may dampen irritability and anger in humans. PMID: 10471170, UI: 99397771
Int Clin Psychopharmacol 1999 May;14 Suppl 2:S27-33 Serotonin reuptake inhibitors for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoria. Eriksson E Department of Pharmacology, Goteborg University, Sweden. Premenstrual dysphoria (PMD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome, afflicting approximately 5% of all women of fertile age. The cardinal symptoms are irritability and anger. In addition, sadness, tension and carbohydrate craving are common complaints. The symptoms surface regularly between ovulation and menstruation, and disappear completely within a few days after the onset of the bleeding; in patients with remaining symptoms during the follicular phase, alternative diagnoses should be considered. In a large number of recent trials, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (clomipramine, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline) have been shown to reduce the symptoms of PMD much more effectively than placebo; in contrast, non-serotonergic antidepressants (maprotiline, bupropion) appear to be ineffective. Interestingly, the onset of action of clomipramine and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is much shorter when used for PMD than when used for depression, panic disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Consequently, patients with PMD can restrict the medication to the luteal phase of the cycle. In a recent placebo-controlled trial, intermittent administration of the SSRI citalopram was shown to reduce the symptoms of PMD significantly better than placebo, but also better than continuous administration of the drug. A reasonable interpretation of the latter, unexpected finding is that continuous medication may be associated with a certain development of tolerance than can be avoided by intermittent drug administration. The observation that the symptoms of PMD may be effectively reduced by SSRIs is of considerable clinical importance since previously no effective treatment for this common condition – apart from those disrupting ovarian cyclicity – has been available. It is also of theoretical importance because it constitutes one of the first pharmacological observations supporting the concept that serotonin may dampen irritability and anger in humans. PMID: 10471170, UI: 99397771
its been documented that ssri’s and benzo’s blood plasma levels change when women ovulate and vice versa when they don’t-since you are changing your bodies ability to ovulate the plasma levels may drop somewhat-you may want to ask your doc to augment some benzo or ad meds with your next shot-medroxyprogesterone acetate is a known sensitizer of depression-you can just try and pamper yourself until the effects slough off LM
Margrove, you hit the nail on the head again. I took extra celexa today, thinking at least it will do "something." (I don’t think she’s gonna go for increasing my benzos, and I don’t want to ask her to), but I had a really nice nap, and feel better. That is a very very very good idea. I think I will increase my celexa during this time of the month. It was a one time shot (depression is putting it mildly, I was thinking of ways to end my life). It is still in my system, and I can feel the effects during this time of the month. Thanks, Maria
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Maria, Being male, I can’t personally relate to PMS, but the hormonal character of panic disorder has given me some appreciation of the subject. Valerie Davis Raskin, MD, wrote a very good book titled, "When Words Are Not Enough; The Women’s Prescription for Depression and Anxiety." The book is not too expensive and written for the general public, so you may want to buy a copy via Amazon or some other book shop. It covers a lot of issues that are important to women who suffer from anxiety and depression. Best Wishes, Arthur
Thankyou for that information Arthur. I remember it being one of the trivia questions, but I didn’t know what it was about. Maria
its been documented that ssri’s and benzo’s blood plasma levels change when women ovulate and vice versa when they don’t-since you are changing your bodies ability to ovulate the plasma levels may drop somewhat-you may want to ask your doc to augment some benzo or ad meds with your next shot-medroxyprogesterone acetate is a known sensitizer of depression-you can just try and pamper yourself until the effects slough off LM
Maria – YIKES…..deprovera. I’ve heard enough nightmare stories from my two daughters and my soon-to-be daughter-in-law. All three have had unpleasant reactions to it and some very unpleasant effects getting off.
Hi Cindy, For the first time since I got this shot, I feel that "someone understands." My face actually lit up while reading this. (not that they had to go through the horrid mess, but that I’m not alone). It was a one time shot…..that was enough…it just about killed me. (literally). Thankyou for the information!! Maria – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I can hardly keep my thoughts together today…..I’m not going in to work again today. ….and, when I called in, she tried to make me feel guilty. It’s almost like my hormones override these medications. I become overly sensitive, irritable, paranoid, fearful, anxious, restless…..just to name a few symptoms. I know that stupid depo shot is still in my system. I can feel it. I don’t have anything to grip on to, and this is a horrible feeling. Maybe that’s why that show Greed kept my heart pounding last night. I know this will go away in a few days, but what do I do in the meantime? I haven’t done a "pity party" post for awhile, so I guess it was overdue. My doc is out of town AGAIN for the weekend….. I feel like Sharyn today…..I just want to cry. ( Maria Maria – YIKES…..deprovera. I’ve heard enough nightmare stories from my two daughters and my soon-to-be daughter-in-law. All three have had unpleasant reactions to it and some very unpleasant effects getting off. It might be of some comfort to know that your emotional reaction to the provera in depovera is typical. Also know that symptoms of normalizing can go on for 18mo to two years. The progesterone in depovera is a chemically synthesized progestin, not natural hormone and SOME people are terribly sensitive to it. The good news is that although it’s EXTREMELY uncomfortable, kind of like your skin wants to walk off your body and your brain wants to escape, it DOES eventually go away. Some months you may find your own production of hormones will fluctuate and some months may be worse than others. Other chemically synthesized birth control hormones can have the same effect and even when stopped it can take up to and longer than a year to normalize your natural horomes. So you aren’t going crazy, it’s just the hormones talking and it WILL go away. for more information about what you, in your particular situation, can do to help yourself get right sooner…a book I highly recommend (easy read too)…. "Hormonal Health" Michael Colgan, MD. Hope this helps KC Cindy
: I can hardly keep my thoughts together today…..I’m not going in to work again : today. ….and, when I called in, she tried to make me feel guilty. It’s : almost like my hormones override these medications. I become overly sensitive, : irritable, paranoid, fearful, anxious, restless…..just to name a few : symptoms. I know that stupid depo shot is still in my system. I can feel it. : : I don’t have anything to grip on to, and this is a horrible feeling. Maybe : that’s why that show Greed kept my heart pounding last night. : I know this will go away in a few days, but what do I do in the meantime? : I haven’t done a "pity party" post for awhile, so I guess it was overdue. : My doc is out of town AGAIN for the weekend….. : I feel like Sharyn today…..I just want to cry. : ( : Maria Hi Maria, Being male, I can’t personally relate to PMS, but the hormonal character of panic disorder has given me some appreciation of the subject. Valerie Davis Raskin, MD, wrote a very good book titled, "When Words Are Not Enough; The Women’s Prescription for Depression and Anxiety." The book is not too expensive and written for the general public, so you may want to buy a copy via Amazon or some other book shop. It covers a lot of issues that are important to women who suffer from anxiety and depression. Best Wishes, Arthur
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I can hardly keep my thoughts together today…..I’m not going in to work again today. ….and, when I called in, she tried to make me feel guilty. It’s almost like my hormones override these medications. I become overly sensitive, irritable, paranoid, fearful, anxious, restless…..just to name a few symptoms. I know that stupid depo shot is still in my system. I can feel it. I don’t have anything to grip on to, and this is a horrible feeling. Maybe that’s why that show Greed kept my heart pounding last night. I know this will go away in a few days, but what do I do in the meantime? I haven’t done a "pity party" post for awhile, so I guess it was overdue. My doc is out of town AGAIN for the weekend….. I feel like Sharyn today…..I just want to cry. ( Maria
Maria – YIKES…..deprovera. I’ve heard enough nightmare stories from my two daughters and my soon-to-be daughter-in-law. All three have had unpleasant reactions to it and some very unpleasant effects getting off. It might be of some comfort to know that your emotional reaction to the provera in depovera is typical. Also know that symptoms of normalizing can go on for 18mo to two years. The progesterone in depovera is a chemically synthesized progestin, not natural hormone and SOME people are terribly sensitive to it. The good news is that although it’s EXTREMELY uncomfortable, kind of like your skin wants to walk off your body and your brain wants to escape, it DOES eventually go away. Some months you may find your own production of hormones will fluctuate and some months may be worse than others. Other chemically synthesized birth control hormones can have the same effect and even when stopped it can take up to and longer than a year to normalize your natural horomes. So you aren’t going crazy, it’s just the hormones talking and it WILL go away. for more information about what you, in your particular situation, can do to help yourself get right sooner…a book I highly recommend (easy read too)…. "Hormonal Health" Michael Colgan, MD. Hope this helps KC Cindy
Does anyone have experience with combinations of any of the following meds: Wellbutrin, Zoloft, Effexor, and Ritalin? Thanks, groucho
Took them all, but I don’t think it was ever in combination with each other. Like most of the meds I have taken, they worked for a while then ZIPPO. It appears that the Paxil, Buspar, Neurontin Combo I am now on has gone ZIPPO on me. When you feel better without meds than you do on meds, "Somethin’ is screwie in St. Louie!!" Ralph – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have experience with combinations of any of the following meds: Wellbutrin, Zoloft, Effexor, and Ritalin? Thanks, groucho
What dose is the ritaalin for depression?
David responds: You are lucky that you only felt a little wired! Approximately 25% of people who have used Zoloft and Prozac type meds have experienced some of the MANY side effects listed on the rap sheet available at the pharmacy. Of those 25% I experienced a reaction several hours after taking my first pill; nausea and diarrhea. The next day, after taking my second pill, I plunged headlong into every known side effect listed by the pharmaceutical company and then some. I was not predisposed to expect any; in fact my GP made it sound like this was a miracle drug, cure-all and I couldn’t wait to take it in anticipation of relief from PD. After the second pill I experienced the following violent reactions: -Severe nausea without vomitting -Six substantial bowel discharges of pink water only -Vertigo so severe, that I had to crawl to the toilet -Stabbing pinpoint pain in the back of my head, lower left side -Severe chills while sweating profusely alternating with… -Severe hot flashes, while my skin was contracting into goosebumps -Total body weakness -Body spasms -Upon closing my eyes, pictures of brilliantly coloured (dazzling) mundane objects would rotate through my ‘mind’s eye’, akin to what people have described while on a bad LSD trip. -Uncontrollable shaking and trembling -Inability to sleep for two full nights It took three days to recuperate enough to be able to get up and around again. I checked with my doctor and pharmacist and both claimed that none of these symtoms were unusual but said that most people who do experience side effects, only have one or two at most. However, my supervisor at work had taken Zoloft a year prior to me and had never spoken about his experience till I told him mine. He had suffered the same reactions on the day of his second pill. Just recounting my experience brought him to tears, thinking back to how bad his reaction had been. I was switched to Paxil and then to Manerix (sp??) Both of those drugs caused lesser but totally intolerable side effects mostly in the GI tract. One year after my encounter with Zoloft, a young woman at the office was prescribed the same drug and dosage and she only experienced nausea for the first week and then was perfectly fine. However, three years into her therapy and still on Zoloft, she has not conquered one symptom of PD and is now on long term disability insurance, unable to work and suffering severely from agoraphobia. She considers it a triumph to get out of her flat once a month, with the help of two friends; one on either side of her. Three years of Zoloft and at thirty three she has been reduced to a fearful, agoraphobic, unemployed and suicidal mess. While I agree that different drug therapies and also combinations of therapies are needed based on the individual rather than the disorder, I would tend to agree that benzos are most efficient for PD. My specialist agrees and only uses Paxil or Zoloft if firstly, the patient can tolerate it, and secondly, they have chronic depression as well as PD. He has been treating PD exclusively for 25 years and finds that almost everyone who cannot tolerate Prozac family of drugs for depression, can tolerate Imipramine. Unfortunately one must go through 4-6 weeks of extremely light sleep before tolerating it. This is the reason that Imipramine was prescribed at one time for children who were bed-wetters. It kept them from achieving deep levels of sleep, given in short, periodic doses. I think you will find great success with the benzo route but do not be discouraged if Klonopin is not the one which works for you and your body chemistry. I had miraculous freedom from severe PD in a three stage therapy starting with Xanax (extremely fast acting, short lived), euphoric relief with Lectopam (medium lasting) as my doctor brought me down to Rivotril (very long lasting) which keeps the symtoms at bay but not as effectively as the fast acting benzos. My advice would be that if the Klonopin is not working to your satisfction within ten days, it probably is not the drug you need and you should try a new one. Good luck with your new meds.!! David To other readers; I am not knocking Zoloft as a med. I just feel that people should be aware that they MIGHT be unfortunate enough to experience mild to severe side effects. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I guess Zoloft and I were not a match made in heaven. After just three days I found myself so wired last night, I felt like I had eaten an entire package of No Doz! This was entirely different than the generalized anxiety I often feel. I called the p-doc around 10:30 and he told me to stop taking it. I’m seeing him Friday to talk about what’s next. Probably benzos. Most likely Klonopin. So, all of you Klonopin success stories–I’d love to hear them! Iris —
IMO, we should all become our own doctors as it’s our bodies. No, I don’t mean not to consult an actual doctor; you know what I mean. Love and hugs to the whooooole board. Janie. I entirely agree with you, Janie – that we need to educate ourselves to the maximum about our conditions and then work *with* our doctors 
Not that you would ever be encouraged by any doctor to actually do so of course… Job security and all that. Iris —
I’m becoming more convinced of that everyday. Based on what I’ve read here and elsewhere, it seems benzos have the better track record by far. That’s not to discount SSRI’s or any AD, but for dealing with the disabling panic quickly, benzos seem to be the way to go. My thought now is to deal with the panic and anticipatory anxiety which is crippling me right now. Then, if I find some underlying depression, or things still a
Iris, even when I took SSRI’s for Depression, they made me so agitated that I had to take them with Klonopin. this was way before I had PD. So I have strong opinions about treating PD with SSRIs as the first step. Benzos would seem a much wiser way to go. As Cooper said, there is no proven link between Serotonin and PD as there is with Serotonin and Depression. That’s why my Doc back in Boston was adamant about my going on Parnate, an MAO, and sticking with the Benzos. He does nothing but research in psychopharmacology and really knows this stuff backwards and forwards. And he’s been following me from a distance and hooking me up with good docs wherever I move to, for 17 years, even though I’ve been gone from Boston all that time. As us Jews say, this is a real "mensch". This means MAN in Yiddish. As in good, responsible, kind, etc.. Listen, this guy is a genius. his name is Dr. Harrison Pope. He’s at McLean Hospital in Belmont. He does 99% research but he does have one patient. I call it his private private private practice. At the very least he could refer you to someone who knows PD inside and out. He knows everyone in and out of Boston who’s in the field. This may not be covered by insurance but it would be worth it to talk to someone who really cares and really knows his stuff. He was in the Esquire "most promising people under 40" section. Has been on 20/20, etc. Sorry to extoll his virtues ad nauseum but I don’t like or trust many people and he’s one of those few. If you want, e-mail me and I will hook you up with him. He’s a doll and he listens and he cares. I’m sorry I didn’t think of this sooner. I only recently figured out that you live in Boston and that you were only on an AD. I really believe that that Benzos will help you, Iris. You deserve to sleep and have some quality of life. If the doc you have doesn’t listen to you or doesn’t seem knowledgeable, then let me know. All of us in here are praying for you, Iris. all our love, Veronica et al WRITER/CATCH MY TRAIN OF THOUGHT "You can’t have everything. Where would you put it?" (Steven Wright)
David responds: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – (Casamiro) writes: own doctor! Iris IMO, we should all become our own doctors as it’s our bodies. No, I don’t mean not to consult an actual doctor; you know what I mean. ME TOO. In fact, my own doctor believes this as well. He thinks people need to read up and be informed of what is going on, as not all doctors do. He also left the option to take xanax as my choice, since he told me it was ‘addictive’ and I would need to be weaned off of it.
My doctor has been treating PD for over twenty-five years and he encourages his patients to participate in their meds therapy. As a responsible and caring doctor, he encourages all patients who are able, to become their own ’specialist’ by providing as much info as possible about PD and about the meds. In his book on PD he lists several pages of treatment therapies based on how the PD is manifesting, by sypmtoms. He also speaks harshly about people (doctors and researchers included) who say that certain meds such as Xanax are "addictive". The analogy is; is insulin addictive given that a diabetic needs it every day and suffers seriously if the drug is withdrawn? The same applies to Xanax, one of the most beneficial drugs in fighting PD. So much bullshit is put on the ‘net about Xanax and people love to recount their horror stories of coming "off" the drug. If someone has an allergic reaction, I can sympathize since I am allergic to many meds including pain killers, but this is a different issue. The problem with Xanax is that it is clean, efficient, fast acting and not only controls PD but eliminates it for the short duration that it stays active in one’s body. The sad part is that most GPs will only prescribe .5 mg. three times per day, when the American Psychiatric Ass. recommends that up to 6-9 mg. may be required to effectively control PD. One of the reasons that doctors try to get patients off Xanax and on a slow acting benzo is simply to eliminate the need to take pills every two to three hours. I feel sorry for those who recount all the terrible withdrawal symptoms and the living hell they went through coming off Xanax, when in fact all that really happened was a reoccurrence of PD symptoms. It’s sad that people with PD can’t recognize the symptoms of their own disorder and try to blame them on drug withdrawal. One more reason that we need to be ‘our own doctors’. Not by securing drugs without the consent of a doctor, but by becoming aware of the nature of PD and each of the many symptoms it creates. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Lee
Hi, Iris. I just tried to send you email but it bounced. Do you have spam-preventing characters in your address, perchance? Thanks — –Kathleen — "Hope is the thing with feathers" — Emily Dickinson Delete * in address to reply by e-mail
(Casamiro) writes: own doctor! Iris
IMO, we should all become our own doctors as it’s our bodies. No, I don’t mean
not to consult an actual doctor; you know what I mean.
ME TOO. In fact, my own doctor believes this as well. He thinks people need to read up and be informed of what is going on, as not all doctors do. He also left the option to take xanax as my choice, since he told me it was ‘addictive’ and I would need to be weaned off of it. Lee A little snogging goes a long way… <EG
I guess Zoloft and I were not a match made in heaven. After just three days I found myself so wired last night, I felt like I had eaten an entire package of No Doz! This was entirely different than the generalized anxiety I often feel. I called the p-doc around 10:30 and he told me to
stop taking it. I’m seeing him Friday to talk about what’s next.
Probably benzos. Most likely Klonopin. So, all of you Klonopin success
stories–I’d love to hear them! Sorry to hear this Iris. But at least now you know you can take medication. That in itself is something to celebrate. Good luck with the next one :):) Lee A little snogging goes a long way… <EG
David responds: You are lucky that you only felt a little wired! Approximately 25% of people who have used Zoloft and Prozac type meds have experienced some of the MANY side effects listed on the rap sheet available at the pharmacy. Of those 25% I experienced a reaction several hours after taking my first pill; nausea and diarrhea. The next day, after taking my second pill, I plunged headlong into every known side effect listed by the pharmaceutical company and then some. I was not predisposed to expect any; in fact my GP made it sound like this was a miracle drug, cure-all and I couldn’t wait to take it in anticipation of relief from PD. After the second pill I experienced the following violent reactions: -Severe nausea without vomitting -Six substantial bowel discharges of pink water only -Vertigo so severe, that I had to crawl to the toilet -Stabbing pinpoint pain in the back of my head, lower left side -Severe chills while sweating profusely alternating with… -Severe hot flashes, while my skin was contracting into goose bumps -Total body weakness -Body spasms -Upon closing my eyes, pictures of brilliantly coloured (dazzling) mundane objects would rotate through my ‘mind’s eye’, akin to what people have described while on a bad LSD trip. -Uncontrollable shaking and trembling -Inability to sleep for two full nights It took three days to recuperate enough to be able to get up and around again. I checked with my doctor and pharmacist and both claimed that none of these symptoms were unusual but said that most people who do experience side effects, only have one or two at most. However, my supervisor at work had taken Zoloft a year prior to me and had never spoken about his experience till I told him mine. He had suffered the same reactions on the day of his second pill. Just recounting my experience brought him to tears, thinking back to how bad his reaction had been. I was switched to Paxil and then to Manerix (sp??) Both of those drugs caused lesser but totally intolerable side effects mostly in the GI tract. One year after my encounter with Zoloft, a young woman at the office was prescribed the same drug and dosage and she only experienced nausea for the first week and then was perfectly fine. However, three years into her therapy and still on Zoloft, she has not conquered one symptom of PD and is now on long term disability insurance, unable to work and suffering severely from agoraphobia. She considers it a triumph to get out of her flat once a month, with the help of two friends; one on either side of her. Three years of Zoloft and at thirty three she has been reduced to a fearful, agoraphobic, unemployed and suicidal mess. While I agree that different drug therapies and also combinations of therapies are needed based on the individual rather than the disorder, I would tend to agree that benzos are most efficient for PD. My specialist agrees and only uses Paxil or Zoloft if firstly, the patient can tolerate it, and secondly, they have chronic depression as well as PD. He has been treating PD exclusively for 25 years and finds that almost everyone who cannot tolerate Prozac family of drugs for depression, can tolerate Imipramine. Unfortunately one must go through 4-6 weeks of extremely light sleep before tolerating it. This is the reason that Imipramine was prescribed at one time for children who were bed-wetters. It kept them from achieving deep levels of sleep, given in short, periodic doses. I think you will find great success with the benzo route but do not be discouraged if Klonopin is not the one which works for you and your body chemistry. I had miraculous freedom from severe PD in a three stage therapy starting with Xanax (extremely fast acting, short lived), euphoric relief with Lectopam (medium lasting) as my doctor brought me down to Rivotril (very long lasting) which keeps the symtoms at bay but not as effectively as the fast acting benzos. My advice would be that if the Klonopin is not working to your satisfaction within ten days, it probably is not the drug you need and you should try a new one. Good luck with your new meds.!! David To other readers; I am not knocking Zoloft as a med. I just feel that people should be aware that they MIGHT be unfortunate enough to experience mild to severe side effects. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I guess Zoloft and I were not a match made in heaven. After just three days I found myself so wired last night, I felt like I had eaten an entire package of No Doz! This was entirely different than the generalized anxiety I often feel. I called the p-doc around 10:30 and he told me to stop taking it. I’m seeing him Friday to talk about what’s next. Probably benzos. Most likely Klonopin. So, all of you Klonopin success stories–I’d love to hear them! Iris —
The doctor put me on zoloft for depression and panic attacks with agorophobia and the result was like magic, at least with respect to the panic attacks: after 24 hours (1 dose!) NO MORE PANIC ATTACKS and no more AGOROPHOBIA! The depression remains and I continue to take the Zoloft for it. The major side effect that I experience is insomnia (can’t get to sleep) but once I get to sleep I sleep better than ever. I just got some Ambien for sleep — I’ll try the first pill tonight. I just hope that it works for my depression. I have read that it takes between 7 and 28 days to see the antidepressant effects of Zoloft. I’m taking only 50 mg a day.
I’m very glad you are able to take the Zoloft with such success. However, I don’t know if it is that effective after just one dose. When I took Zoloft, the big buzz would set in 10-12 hours after I took it. I was taking my dose in the morning, but in retrospect, taking it at night would have been better. If you think about when the drug affects you most and adjust the timing of your dose accordingly, it may help. Sorry I can’t be more optimistic re: Zoloft. I only took it 4 days but I couldn’t stand the way it made me feel. Iris —
doctor! Iris
IMO, we should all become our own doctors as it’s our bodies. No, I don’t mean not to consult an actual doctor; you know what I mean. Love and hugs to the whooooole board. Janie.
I’m becoming more convinced of that everyday. Based on what I’ve read here and elsewhere, it seems benzos have the better track record by far. That’s not to discount SSRI’s or any AD, but for dealing with the disabling panic quickly, benzos seem to be the way to go. My thought now is to deal with the panic and anticipatory anxiety which is crippling me right now. Then, if I find some underlying depression, or things still aren’t "right" I’d consider the AD. In this case, most likely Prozac since I have two family members who have taken it for depression with no side effects (three, if you count our dog!). Also, Prozac can be taken in liquid form, so I could start with as little as 2-5 mg and work my way up.
Actually, that’s a very good point, Iris. A long while ago, the reminder that Prozac is available in liquid form was commonly given on this NG and we’ve rather let that drop of late. It could be the ideal way for people starting Prozac to begin. Sheesh–I"m becoming my own doctor!
Who else would you trust? 
— Gary Cooper
IMO, we should all become our own doctors as it’s our bodies. No, I don’t mean not to consult an actual doctor; you know what I mean. Love and hugs to the whooooole board. Janie.
I entirely agree with you, Janie – that we need to educate ourselves to the maximum about our conditions and then work *with* our doctors — Gary Cooper
The doctor put me on zoloft for depression and panic attacks with agorophobia and the result was like magic, at least with respect to the panic attacks: after 24 hours (1 dose!) NO MORE PANIC ATTACKS and no more AGOROPHOBIA! The depression remains and I continue to take the Zoloft for it. The major side effect that I experience is insomnia (can’t get to sleep) but once I get to sleep I sleep better than ever. I just got some Ambien for sleep — I’ll try the first pill tonight. I just hope that it works for my depression. I have read that it takes between 7 and 28 days to see the antidepressant effects of Zoloft. I’m taking only 50 mg a day.
Boy, I hope Klonopin has fewer side effects! I’m just now, at 4 pm the next day, starting to feel more "normal" (whatever normal is for a PD sufferer). I’m just realizing how jittery I felt the last few days
Sorry this didn’t work for you, Iris but at least you tried and I know that was a big step for you. I hope you are giving yourself credit for that. I just got a lecture from a friend of mine who was on Xanax and Zoloft for quite some time. She’s off the Xanax now, but still on Zoloft. She told me she thought benzos wouldn’t solve the problem as they don’t affect serotonin levels, etc., etc. I told her she might not have been able to stand the Zoloft if she hadn’t been on Xanax first.
Good response and sounds like someone you might need to tune out a bit in your quest for what works for you. Sigh. I don’t know what the right answer is.
If only it was the same for all of us. I suppose it’s whatever works for me, isn’t it?
Yup, and you will find it. I think you will find the benzos much more…user friendly. Good luck! Gwen
Hi Iris I have a suggestion. My Dr. has discussed using prozac for me eventually. Now he knows of my fear of meds and I have not been able to get on an AD so far. The way he told me we would do it is to take a 10 mg prozac and open it into a 4oz baby bottle of apple juice. That way I can start on a very very low dosage 1/2 oz a day and then 1 oz a day etc… He said I would feel less side effects that way and the meds would build up slowly plus it gives me some control over the med. Maybe you could mention this to your dr. and see if it would be an option for you also. It will take longer to get to a therapeutic dosage but at least it would help with the side effects Blessings, Kelly
Boy, I hope Klonopin has fewer side effects! I’m just now, at 4 pm the next day, starting to feel more "normal" (whatever normal is for a PD sufferer). I’m just realizing how jittery I felt the last few days. By last night I wasn’t even able to think straight. My 7 year old beat me in checkers around 3pm. By 7pm I was climbing the walls. I didn’t sleep all night. I woke up wired. I can’t stand that "buzzed" feeling. I’m hoping for better results with a benzo. My p-doc says he might still want to try an AD on me–perhaps Prozac since my sister was on it with no side effects. Perhaps we’ll see. If Klonopin can do the trick right now, so be it.
Hi, Iris – I’d have thought there’s every chance that Klonopin will do the trick. To be honest, I grow more sceptical by the day about the current policy of resorting to SSRIs first. The worst Klonopin is likely to do is make you drowsy, IMO. I just got a lecture from a friend of mine who was on Xanax and Zoloft for quite some time. She’s off the Xanax now, but still on Zoloft. She told me she thought benzos wouldn’t solve the problem as they don’t affect serotonin levels, etc., etc. I told her she might not have been able to stand the Zoloft if she hadn’t been on Xanax first.
Your friend’s wrong. There is no certainty that serotonin is the implicated chemical in A/PD – it could be one of several, including GABA, which is what benzos work on. This is a case of YMMV and what worked for her simply may not be right for you. Sigh. I don’t know what the right answer is. I suppose it’s whatever works for me, isn’t it?
Cetainly is – good luck! — Gary Cooper
Hi, Iris – I’d have thought there’s every chance that Klonopin will do the trick. To be honest, I grow more sceptical by the day about the current policy of resorting to SSRIs first. The worst Klonopin is likely to do is make you drowsy, IMO.
I’m becoming more convinced of that everyday. Based on what I’ve read here and elsewhere, it seems benzos have the better track record by far. That’s not to discount SSRI’s or any AD, but for dealing with the disabling panic quickly, benzos seem to be the way to go. My thought now is to deal with the panic and anticipatory anxiety which is crippling me right now. Then, if I find some underlying depression, or things still aren’t "right" I’d consider the AD. In this case, most likely Prozac since I have two family members who have taken it for depression with no side effects (three, if you count our dog!). Also, Prozac can be taken in liquid form, so I could start with as little as 2-5 mg and work my way up. Sheesh–I"m becoming my own doctor! Iris I just got a lecture from a friend of mine who was on Xanax and Zoloft for quite some time. She’s off the Xanax now, but still on Zoloft. She told me she thought benzos wouldn’t solve the problem as they don’t affect serotonin levels, etc., etc. I told her she might not have been able to stand the Zoloft if she hadn’t been on Xanax first. Your friend’s wrong. There is no certainty that serotonin is the implicated chemical in A/PD – it could be one of several, including GABA, which is what benzos work on. This is a case of YMMV and what worked for her simply may not be right for you.
She had terrible depression as well, which at this point, I haven’t seen in myself. Iris —
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Iris I have a suggestion. My Dr. has discussed using prozac for me eventually. Now he knows of my fear of meds and I have not been able to get on an AD so far. The way he told me we would do it is to take a 10 mg prozac and open it into a 4oz baby bottle of apple juice. That way I can start on a very very low dosage 1/2 oz a day and then 1 oz a day etc… He said I would feel less side effects that way and the meds would build up slowly plus it gives me some control over the med. Maybe you could mention this to your dr. and see if it would be an option for you also. It will take longer to get to a therapeutic dosage but at least it would help with the side effects Blessings, Kelly
Good suggestion. As I posted earlier in response to Gary’s post, I’m going to get on the benzo first, see how that goes, then review whether or not I need the AD. If so, Prozac may be a good choice for me. Iris —
I guess Zoloft and I were not a match made in heaven. After just three days I found myself so wired last night, I felt like I had eaten an entire package of No Doz! This was entirely different than the generalized anxiety I often feel. I called the p-doc around 10:30 and he told me to stop taking it. I’m seeing him Friday to talk about what’s next. Probably benzos. Most likely Klonopin. So, all of you Klonopin success stories–I’d love to hear them! Iris —
I’ve been maintained on Klonopin for at least 8 years. I was able to start attending college. Hey, I was even able to SIT in the class without running for the nearest door…. I can tell you some stories about speech class! Talk about being shaky, but I made it. Hopefully, it will work for you, too.
I couldnt tolerate Zoloft either. Klonopin has helped anxiety, not a cure by any means, but it helps without any side effects. Good luck PETER
I guess Zoloft and I were not a match made in heaven. After just threedays I
found myself so wired last night, I felt like I had eaten an entirepackage of No Doz! This was entirely different than the generalizedanxiety I often feel. I called the p-doc around 10:30 and he told me tostop taking it. I’m seeing him Friday to talk about what’s next. Probably benzos. Most likely Klonopin. So, all of you Klonopin success stories–I’d love to hear them! Iris Been on Klonopin for about 10 yrs – - currently on .5(1/2mg.) 3 x per day (a
low dose IMO) for panic and generalized anxiety. I’m also on 20 mg Paxil for depression. Doing well on these dosages except when I have to do something out of the ordinary, like today I’m going to a new gym so I know I will have a huge amount of anxiety. My vote’s for Klonopin! Good luck. Love, Janie. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –
I guess Zoloft and I were not a match made in heaven. After just three days I found myself so wired last night, I felt like I had eaten an entire package of No Doz! This was entirely different than the generalized anxiety I often feel. I called the p-doc around 10:30 and he told me to stop taking it. I’m seeing him Friday to talk about what’s next. Probably benzos. Most likely Klonopin. So, all of you Klonopin success stories–I’d love to hear them!
Sorry to hear it didn’t work out, Iris 
I’m one of those who also had a lot of problems with Zoloft and had to give it up – I’m sure you’ll be lots better with Klonopin, though as it has very few side effects. Good luck! — Gary Cooper
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I guess Zoloft and I were not a match made in heaven. After just three days I found myself so wired last night, I felt like I had eaten an entire package of No Doz! This was entirely different than the generalized anxiety I often feel. I called the p-doc around 10:30 and he told me to stop taking it. I’m seeing him Friday to talk about what’s next. Probably benzos. Most likely Klonopin. So, all of you Klonopin success stories–I’d love to hear them! Sorry to hear it didn’t work out, Iris I’m one of those who also had a lot of problems with Zoloft and had to give it up – I’m sure you’ll be lots better with Klonopin, though as it has very few side effects. Good luck! — Gary Cooper
Boy, I hope Klonopin has fewer side effects! I’m just now, at 4 pm the next day, starting to feel more "normal" (whatever normal is for a PD sufferer). I’m just realizing how jittery I felt the last few days. By last night I wasn’t even able to think straight. My 7 year old beat me in checkers around 3pm. By 7pm I was climbing the walls. I didn’t sleep all night. I woke up wired. I can’t stand that "buzzed" feeling. I’m hoping for better results with a benzo. My p-doc says he might still want to try an AD on me–perhaps Prozac since my sister was on it with no side effects. Perhaps we’ll see. If Klonopin can do the trick right now, so be it. I just got a lecture from a friend of mine who was on Xanax and Zoloft for quite some time. She’s off the Xanax now, but still on Zoloft. She told me she thought benzos wouldn’t solve the problem as they don’t affect serotonin levels, etc., etc. I told her she might not have been able to stand the Zoloft if she hadn’t been on Xanax first. Sigh. I don’t know what the right answer is. I suppose it’s whatever works for me, isn’t it? Iris —
Sorry to hear it didn’t work out, Iris I’m one of those who also had a lot of problems with Zoloft and had to give it up – I’m sure you’ll be lots better with Klonopin, though as it has very few side effects. Good luck! Gary Cooper Boy, I hope Klonopin has fewer side effects! I’m just now, at 4 pm thenext
day, starting to feel more "normal" (whatever normal is for a PDsufferer). I’m just realizing how jittery I felt the last few days. Bylast night I wasn’t even able to think straight. My 7 year old beat me incheckers around 3pm. By 7pm I was climbing the walls. I didn’t sleep allnight. I woke up wired. I can’t stand that "buzzed" feeling. I’m hopingfor better results with a benzo. My p-doc says he might still want to tryan AD on me–perhaps Prozac since my sister was on it with no sideeffects. Perhaps we’ll see. If Klonopin can do the trick right now, sobe it. I just got a lecture from a friend of mine who was on Xanax and Zoloft
forquite some time. She’s off the Xanax now, but still on Zoloft. She toldme she thought benzos wouldn’t solve the problem as they don’t affectserotonin levels, etc., etc. I told her she might not have been able tostand the Zoloft if she hadn’t been on Xanax first. Sigh. I don’t know what the right answer is. I suppose it’s whateverworks for me, isn’t it? Iris
Iris, I needed the Klonopin to control my GAD and PD. Janie. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –