Posted by Johann on April 6, 2007, at 1:06:22
Hi, I just came across this forum and saw the questions about EMSAM. I'm a psychologist (using a pseudonym) and have dealt with PTSD and Bi-Polar Spectrum Disorder for many years. I thought I simply had ferocious depressions (which nothing would treat) and extreme anxiety, until a reaction to a tricyclic put me into a suicidal manic depression. Having been treated with lithium (and some other things), my depression has abated significantly and the anxiety has calmed some. Still, lithium is toxic, and EMSAM has shown success with panic disorder (that is, anxiety) and PTSD, as well as depression. I've worked my way up to the 12 mg/24 hour patch (for 2 weeks now) and have experienced no side effects (except maybe once when I ate a lot! of soy sauce). The couple of times I've bumped up the dosage I may have experienced some insomnia.
I am very happy with it (aside from the cost) and find that it works as a sort of emotional governor for me, limiting my reactivity for both anxiety and depression. Until I'm stable for a number of months at full dosage, with no significant external stressors, I'll continue with my other meds (yes to klonopin, but only .5 mg).
I was recently at a talk given by one of the original researchers for EMSAM, and he confirmed my experience. He also said that all the studies have been done at the full 12 mg level with no dietary restrictions or reactions. Because the patch uses a matrix design it can be cut with no loss of effect. I am amazed at how well it stays on (in the shower and steam room, on the tennis court) and the lack of any skin irritation.
Here's wishing us all the best,
Johann
poster:Johann
thread:747415
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20070402/msgs/747415.html