Posted by kimcrazylady on May 30, 2006, at 9:54:12
In reply to Questions for long term MAOI users, posted by nickguy on May 29, 2006, at 14:31:40
> I'd a little hesistant about taking an MAOI. I know they're not as dangerous as they're played out to be if you follow the guidelines, but a few things bother me. For those of you who have taken or are taking maoi's over a long period of time (a few years atleast), how much do the restrictions bother you? Do any of you drink or did drink before you went on, and how has that effected you? What the heck do you do when you get sick (colds and coughs)? What are you supposed to do when you need surgery or go to the emergency room ( concerning painkillers) ?
>
> I'd really appreciate some feedback. thanks guys.
I've been on and off Parnate for over 20 years and really haven't had any problems. I stay away from the really aged cheezes, but eat pizza quite a bit. I drink, but not much red wine or dark liquors like whiskey, etc. I will occasionally drink beer, but limit it to only one if it's on tap. I drink too much wine, and the only time I've ever had a reaction is when I just simply drink and eat too many restricted things in a matter of a day or two. My face will get splotches on it. It raises my blood pressure some, but not dangerously.I have an aneurysm, so my doc pulled me off Parnate last year after discovering it. I was worthless, even though I tried several drugs. Nothing has ever worked for me except Parnate, so for me it's worth the risk.
I don't wear a bracelet, but I do have a card in my wallet. I have had both scheduled and emercency surgeries while on Parnate and have had absolutely no problems with anesthisia. As long as they know you are on an MAO, there should be no issues. Same for the dentist. I had to have some work done and he just used a different novacaine formula. Again, no problems.
As far as colds, etc. You have to be careful, but there are many things available. I take Benadryl for a stuffy head and my GP has found other meds when I'm sick. Never had problems with pain killers or muscle relaxors after surgery either. Just make sure you tell every doc what you are taking and make them LOOK UP all meds. Then, I double check with the pharmacist.
Mostly, it doesn't affect me except for a few foods I'd like to eat. The smallest amount of pickle juice makes me sick and I like pickles!
Good luck.
Kim
poster:kimcrazylady
thread:650144
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060530/msgs/650405.html