Posted by Zeke on December 6, 1999, at 9:29:09
In reply to Re: Considering MAOI's, posted by S. Suggs on December 3, 1999, at 19:47:45
Mark,
I hear and understand your frustration, but if you're not finding relief and can't work with this doctor, move on. If you must stay with him then ask for a 2nd opinion on treatment options (and if he can't deal with that you move on immediately). I appreciare what S said and agree that we should do some homework but my gut feeling is that the doc should be doing his homework too and you are likely to stir some resentment in him. By him saying "stay with what you're on," rather than freely discussing options, I'd think you'd just be challenging him (and his ego). Further, I wonder what kind of a valuable working relationship you've really developed over the past year.
I think many doctors tend to fall in love with certain medications and force everyone into rigid categories. This is from convenience, lack of experience or simply being inept. One the other hand many biologically oriented psychiatrists and neuropsychiatrists will take a much more agressive approach to treating you than you probably imagine. Indeed, much of the ground work has been done by your current doctor, and you can have your medical records forwarded to the new doc.
If you live near a university with a Med school, call the psychiatry school. Ask about faculty that specialize in social phobia or related disorders, or whether they have a specialty clinic for it. (Do this even for a second opinin -- an expert consult).
BTW, there are many options beyond MAOIs. Even changing from Zoloft to another SSRI (one will work when another doesn't) or another antidepressant or (as has beem suggested earlier) augmenting with Synthroid, pindilol, lithium or several other choices.
poster:Zeke
thread:16104
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19991123/msgs/16300.html