Posted by Ame Sans Vie on June 26, 2003, at 8:29:02
In reply to Re: Zero Motivation, posted by HenryO on June 26, 2003, at 4:37:06
The low dopamine thing was already mentioned on here, and I have to say it certainly has played the largest role in sapping my motivation. I am able to say this because just a couple months ago I was just like your son (I'm male, 20 years old, completely unmotivated but very bright--however, unlike your son (AFAIK), agoraphobic). I researched meds endlessly until I stumbled across Mirapex--an anti-Parkinsonian drug that is a dopamine agonist. There are many of these types of drugs available (Permax, Symmetrel, etc.) but only Mirapex and Requip, relatively new medications, are more specific for the D-3 receptors than the others. I would urge you to run a search on Google for "Mirapex Prozac" to find a study that compares the effects of these two drugs in treating depression. Mirapex is lacking all the side effects of the antidepressants (the only side effect I have is mild sleepiness occasionally, and when first beginning the medication it's common to experience some nausea). It is believed that the D-3 receptor stimulation is responsible for its marked antidepressant qualities (relief of anhedonia, amotivation, anergia, melancholy, and even improvement in sex drive). Mirapex (in combination with Klonopin for my agoraphobia/socal anxiety has been a true lifesaver for me, and I strongly urge you to read up on it (and Requip, for that matter), print out some information, and have your son present it to his doctor.
Best of luck to you and your son, and I'd really like to hear any future updates!
poster:Ame Sans Vie
thread:236674
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030624/msgs/237188.html