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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 132 to 156 of 226. Go back in thread:
Posted by Lorraine on June 22, 2001, at 9:38:47
In reply to Re: sarafem? New/frustrated w/doc/misdiagnosed?, posted by Chris on June 20, 2001, at 8:18:58
Make sure the med you are put on is good for rage. Not everyone with a mood disorder suffers from rage so be specific and explicit with your doctor. A psychopharmacoligist will have a better handle on what he/she is doing than a regular doctor. Good luck. Let us know what happens.
Posted by Zo on June 24, 2001, at 16:02:50
In reply to Re: sarafem? New/frustrated w/doc/misdiagnosed?, posted by Chris on June 20, 2001, at 8:18:58
Sarafem. . .is Prozac, marketed under another name!
Same thing with Zyban, for quitting smoking. It's Wellbutrin!
Posted by Sunnie on August 15, 2001, at 11:20:40
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long, posted by Linda already exists on October 8, 2000, at 11:46:10
I am 34 y/o and was diagnosed with PMDD yesterday. I have severe PMS symtoms and without really investigating, my doctor prescribed Sarafem. I have suffered with anemia for many many years and have taken supplements and tried to follow diets for this. Eight years ago, I was diagnosed with Endometriosis. After months of testing the my doctor at the time, just up and says "Oh you have endometriosos, Its nothing to worry about. You've had your tubes tied and weren't having any more kids anyway." I wish that I would have researched this more. These violent mood swings that accure after ovulation have just about destroyed my life. No one can stand to be around me for 2 1/2 weeks of the month. It is disrupting my job, my social life and my love life. My children think I am the One Who Flew Over the CooCoos Nest. I am very interested to know how your Sarafem is working for you. I am scarred of this drug and also have my doubts that this will help me. I may not be suffering from PMDD. I need to be sure and follow the right track before I loose my mind. Thank you for your time. Sunnie
Posted by akrake on August 15, 2001, at 12:53:57
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long » Linda already exists, posted by Sunnie on August 15, 2001, at 11:20:40
> I am 34 y/o and was diagnosed with PMDD yesterday. I have severe PMS symtoms and without really investigating, my doctor prescribed Sarafem. These violent mood swings that accure after ovulation have just about destroyed my life. No one can stand to be around me for 2 1/2 weeks of the month. It is disrupting my job, my social life and my love life. I am very interested to know how your Sarafem is working for you.
SunnieHi Sunnie. I'm a fellow pmdd sufferer. it is terrible. i took sarafem for awhile and it worked wonders. please realize that it's actually prozac and now that there is generic prozac avalible.....it could be much cheaper. i took the pills everyday....some docs recommend using it for only 10-14 days out of the month....when you need it. i noticed it worked within 2 weeks.....my period "snuck up" on me...no pms at all.
but i did have some side effects so i stopped using it and went to wellbutrin sr. i wish my doc would have just augmented the sarafem with wellbutrin instead of taking me off it....but try it by itself first. it really reallly worked for me.
amie
ps..i used prozac because it was cheaper than sarafem...fyi.
Posted by Sunnie on August 15, 2001, at 15:14:53
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long » Sunnie, posted by akrake on August 15, 2001, at 12:53:57
Thanks Amie,
I have been very nervous about using this. I don't mean to sound silly but I am very concerned about the affects to my sex drive. My relationship is in jeapordy as it is with all this emotional upheavel, I didn't want to wipe out the only thread I have left. I know he loves me, but it has been very hard on him the past 8 months. Sex is just about the only thing going good for us right now. Some of the other side affects really bother me too. I pulled it up on the internet and it sounds real scary. If you don't mind me asking, what do you do for PMDD now?
Thanks again for all your information. Sunnie
Posted by akrake on August 16, 2001, at 16:09:37
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long » akrake, posted by Sunnie on August 15, 2001, at 15:14:53
>Sunnie, i would try the sarafem if i were you. it worked great for me within 2 weeks. i had sexual side effects, but that doesn't mean you will too. right now i'm taking wellbutrin sr with klonopin (when i need it). it's not working as well as i'd like it too....but i'm going to give it 12 weeks.
then if it doesn't work, i'm going to go back to sarafem on the 2 week schedule to see if that will work.
good luck to you.
amieThanks Amie,
>
> I have been very nervous about using this. I don't mean to sound silly but I am very concerned about the affects to my sex drive. My relationship is in jeapordy as it is with all this emotional upheavel, I didn't want to wipe out the only thread I have left. I know he loves me, but it has been very hard on him the past 8 months. Sex is just about the only thing going good for us right now. Some of the other side affects really bother me too. I pulled it up on the internet and it sounds real scary. If you don't mind me asking, what do you do for PMDD now?
>
> Thanks again for all your information. Sunnie
Posted by payne on August 31, 2001, at 18:11:16
In reply to i would try it if i were you! » Sunnie, posted by akrake on August 16, 2001, at 16:09:37
Has anyone here been involved with a clinical trial for an investigational drug for PMDD? I recently answered an ad for a study for PMS. I met with a study team member and their psychologist and was told I have PMDD. Honestly, this fits and it's about time that I can explain what happens to me. Classic symptoms. The drug they are studying is a Monophasic OCP, containing Drospirenone and Estradiol. I really don't want to take a psychotropic medication yet. I've tried herbal, and attempted lifestyle changes---however, the lack of self-control in the days before my period makes inforcing a diet, when you feel like eating the contents of a grocery store, a little difficult to say the least. My girlfriends have had mixed results while on OCP with their physical symptoms. Yet, I want to change the emotional symptoms. Anybody have any insights on this? Thanks.
Posted by payne on August 31, 2001, at 18:12:22
In reply to i would try it if i were you! » Sunnie, posted by akrake on August 16, 2001, at 16:09:37
Has anyone here been involved with a clinical trial for an investigational drug for PMDD? I recently answered an ad for a study for PMS. I met with a study team member and their psychologist and was told I have PMDD. Honestly, this fits and it's about time that I can explain what happens to me. Classic symptoms. The drug they are studying is a Monophasic OCP, containing Drospirenone and Estradiol. I really don't want to take a psychotropic medication yet. I've tried herbal, and attempted lifestyle changes---however, the lack of self-control in the days before my period makes inforcing a diet, when you feel like eating the contents of a grocery store, a little difficult to say the least. My girlfriends have had mixed results while on OCP with their physical symptoms. Yet, I want to change the emotional symptoms. Anybody have any insights on this? Thanks.
Posted by susan C on September 1, 2001, at 14:58:35
In reply to Clinical trials, posted by payne on August 31, 2001, at 18:12:22
I know Estradiol is one of three estrogens. Don't know about the other one.
sc
> Has anyone here been involved with a clinical trial for an investigational drug for PMDD? I recently answered an ad for a study for PMS. I met with a study team member and their psychologist and was told I have PMDD. Honestly, this fits and it's about time that I can explain what happens to me. Classic symptoms. The drug they are studying is a Monophasic OCP, containing Drospirenone and Estradiol. I really don't want to take a psychotropic medication yet. I've tried herbal, and attempted lifestyle changes---however, the lack of self-control in the days before my period makes inforcing a diet, when you feel like eating the contents of a grocery store, a little difficult to say the least. My girlfriends have had mixed results while on OCP with their physical symptoms. Yet, I want to change the emotional symptoms. Anybody have any insights on this? Thanks.
Posted by payne on September 2, 2001, at 14:35:53
In reply to Re: Clinical trials, posted by susan C on September 1, 2001, at 14:58:35
> I know Estradiol is one of three estrogens. Don't know about the other one.
>
> scThe other component is investigational, but I know that other clinical trials are under way. I was wondering if there was anyone else out there who participated, or could give me insight about using estrogen. I'm just trying to do a little research before I commit to this study.
Posted by susan C on September 2, 2001, at 15:19:18
In reply to Re: Clinical trials, posted by payne on September 2, 2001, at 14:35:53
> > I know Estradiol is one of three estrogens. Don't know about the other one.
> >
> > sc
>
> The other component is investigational, but I know that other clinical trials are under way. I was wondering if there was anyone else out there who participated, or could give me insight about using estrogen. I'm just trying to do a little research before I commit to this study.Hi, I sometimes wander on this site looking for tidbits, and looked up pms...lots to see, here is part of a thread that you may want to pay attention to
http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010131/msgs/53745.html
I too, am trying to understand this, short of getting a medical degree, and know I have been told by nursepractitioner and naturopathic doctor, that in my case, taking estrogens for menooopause may or may not increase my risk of breast cancer. I decided the hotflashes were so bad that I was willing to take the risk. I am confident to take the least amount necessarry to relieve symptoms. It is a triestrogen+progesterone mix. As I understand it, now I take estrogens because my estrogen level has dropped so low in relation to progesterone, and I am replacing my hormones with a specific amount.
I had severe pms previously and found progesterone to help (not progestin). Both, though from different sources, are still, processed.
My conclusion so far, is that no one really knows, that everyone is different and you need to have your hormone levels checked before you change anything so you can see what changes... There are a lot of opinions on this subject so keep a good chart and journal before after and during.
oh, dear, I sound confused, and I am. Hope this helps anyway.
susan C
Posted by svevo1922 on November 23, 2001, at 15:32:30
In reply to Re: PMDD:Acne,diet help!, posted by Annie1962 on January 31, 2001, at 1:38:32
If you haven't found relief yet, in addition to whatever else you're doing, I would make an appointment with a cosmetically oriented dermatologist. Such doctors are often expensive and not all of their services are covered by insurance but they are the ones who will take your problem seriously, whereas a more traditional dermatologist, especially one who is dominated by HMO's may think, "so what, a little bit of cystic acne, she doesn't have skin cancer?"
having a disfiguring, if not life-threatening condition on your face is no fun and you should not feel guilty about wanting to try to control it.
> Hi Everyone,
>
> I just finished reading threads from the beginning and did not see any mention of acne as one of the many symtoms. Does anyone else experience all of the symptoms with the addition of painful cystic acne, my skin is clear for 10 days and then my cycle hits and I develope a 3rd eye or extra chin, which is filled with fuild and grows to the size of a marble? I have always had Problems with my cycle since I started at age 11, the acne didn't start until after my 1st child at age 27. I did have thyroid problems and had a total thyroidectomy last June, now on a combo of T3 and T4. My symptoms seem to be getting worse with each passing month and many Doctors later I still suffer 20 days out of the month. I have been to Shrinks, Gyns, Internists, all with their own theories and prescribtions, but to no avail. I have even been told that "God helps those who help themselves" or my favorite, " Your acne is caused because you don't like yourself". Ten days out of each month I'm the greatest Mom, Wife, Friend etc. and I like myself, it's when Dr. Jekyl meets Mr. Hide that all heck breaks loose.
>
> Has anyone tried a total Vegan diet? Or any other natural remedies >
>
> Thanks,
>
> Ann >
>
> Hi Jules,
> >
> > Run, do not walk, to the nearest bookstore (or hop on Amazon.com) and buy the recent book by Valerie Davis Raskin, MD, called:
> >
> > When Words are not Enough: the Women's Prescription for Depression and Anxiety. (New York: Broadway Books, a division of Bantam/Doubleday/Dell, 1997)
> >
> > From the blurb on the back: "Valerie Davis Raskin is one of the nation's leading experts on the impact of psychiatric drugs on women. A Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Chicago, she is the co-author of This Isn't What I Expected, a guide to postpartum depression..."
> >
> > Specifically for you, Jules, is Ch. 11, "I want to have a baby: guidelines for medication use during pregnancy." Her main points are that: you shouldn't assume you have to choose between alleviating your illness and having a baby, that many medications for depression and anxiety (also used for what you have - PMDD) do not appear to increase the baseline risk of physical birth defects, that studies have neither proven nor disproven the possibility of harmful effects of medications on the developing fetal brain, etc.
> >
> > She recommends that each woman's situation be considered on a case by case basis, balancing untreated illness with the so-far theoretical risks of taking medication while pregnant. She says also that cultural biases against women with emotional illnesses becoming mothers makes women wait far too long to report problems to their doctors in the first place. And then they don't get the treatment they should because doctors tell them to hold out for as long as they can against medication...
> >
> > So Jules, you're doing really well to find out all you can beforehand and make the best decision for you and your family. In my personal opinion, and please don't take this the wrong way, it's not fair either to your husband or for your new baby to have a wife or mother who's at her wit's end for 3 weeks out of 4. Heck, it's not fair to you! And if you feel so out of control that you feel you can't drive safely, it's a very REAL risk to yourself and your infant. That would be enough for me to get the medication necessary. Your OB/GYN should be able to refer you to a good psychiatrist or psychopharmacologist who can answer your questions and prescribe you something, if you choose that route.
> >
> > My own depression developed while I was pregnant, and Raskin talks about this in detail, too. Amazing how our bodies and chemistries are all so varied!
> >
> > All the best, and let us know how it turns out for you in your search for some answers...
> > B.
> >
> >
> > > Hi. This is my first time posting a message anywhere on the internet but I really need some answers.
> > > I am 28 years old and have been suffering these terrible symptoms since I was about 12.
> > > I'll never forget how one day I woke up and all of a sudden had no self confidence, began having panic attacks, couldn't control my temper and overall was just not a happy person.
> > > I guess I should start on how I found this message board.
> > > My husband and I just had our first child in June of 2000 (which since I was pregnant I have had none of those feelings).
> > > We would like to start trying to have another so I went to the doctor to see if there was any way to tell whether or not I was ovulating(I've been breast feeding exclusively until about a month ago--now only twice a day).
> > > I still have not menstruated since I got pregnant but those awful feelings are back and surprise, surprise, yesterday I got my period.
> > > While I was at the doctors I described the awful emotional turmoil I go through every month due to my period (my husband jokes that he only gets one good week out of me a month because I begin acting crazy two weeks before and the week of).
> > > He didn't come out and say that he thought it was PMDD but he gave me some samples of Celexa to try.
> > > I wanted to do some research before I began taking them because my doctor said there wasn't enough literature out to say whether or not it's safe to take while trying to get pregnant (but there are no studies showing negative effects).
> > > Reading through some other message boards I became extremely scared due to all the awful side effects that people were experiencing.
> > > I am a Masters student in exercise physiology so I know the benefits of exercise and eating healthy.
> > > However, I know there is some chemical imbalance within me (and I have always known but everyone told me I was just sensitive)and exercise and diet alone is just not enough.
> > > The past 17 months have been wonderful due to not having to deal with this but these past couple weeks have been brutal(on myself and on my husband).
> > > Could someone please tell me what they know of the available drugs out there that may not interfere with me getting pregnant or while being pregnant(I feel if I do not do something that I will not be able to become pregnant just due to stress)?
> > > I do have to say that I feel so much better finally knowing that this has been something that I couldn't control and that there ared others who are dealing with these issues as well.
> > > It is amazing how disruptive it can be to your life and relationships.
> > > On one of the boards someone was talking about that they even need to be driven around by someone else when this happens.
> > > And it's funny because I told my husband yesterday that I should not have been in the car because I was out of control.
> > > Well I'll be looking forward to hearing some news.
> > > Thank you.
> > > Jules
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > > Hi. This is my first time posting a message anywhere on the internet but I really need some answers.
> > > I am 28 years old and have been suffering these terrible symptoms since I was about 12.
> > > I'll never forget how one day I woke up and all of a sudden had no self confidence, began having panic attacks, couldn't control my temper and overall was just not a happy person.
> > > I guess I should start on how I found this message board.
> > > My husband and I just had our first child in June of 2000 (which since I was pregnant I have had none of those feelings).
> > > We would like to start trying to have another so I went to the doctor to see if there was any way to tell whether or not I was ovulating(I've been breast feeding exclusively until about a month ago--now only twice a day).
> > > I still have not menstruated since I got pregnant but those awful feelings are back and surprise, surprise, yesterday I got my period.
> > > While I was at the doctors I described the awful emotional turmoil I go through every month due to my period (my husband jokes that he only gets one good week out of me a month because I begin acting crazy two weeks before and the week of).
> > > He didn't come out and say that he thought it was PMDD but he gave me some samples of Celexa to try.
> > > I wanted to do some research before I began taking them because my doctor said there wasn't enough literature out to say whether or not it's safe to take while trying to get pregnant (but there are no studies showing negative effects).
> > > Reading through some other message boards I became extremely scared due to all the awful side effects that people were experiencing.
> > > I am a Masters student in exercise physiology so I know the benefits of exercise and eating healthy.
> > > However, I know there is some chemical imbalance within me (and I have always known but everyone told me I was just sensitive)and exercise and diet alone is just not enough.
> > > The past 17 months have been wonderful due to not having to deal with this but these past couple weeks have been brutal(on myself and on my husband).
> > > Could someone please tell me what they know of the available drugs out there that may not interfere with me getting pregnant or while being pregnant(I feel if I do not do something that I will not be able to become pregnant just due to stress)?
> > > I do have to say that I feel so much better finally knowing that this has been something that I couldn't control and that there ared others who are dealing with these issues as well.
> > > It is amazing how disruptive it can be to your life and relationships.
> > > On one of the boards someone was talking about that they even need to be driven around by someone else when this happens.
> > > And it's funny because I told my husband yesterday that I should not have been in the car because I was out of control.
> > > Well I'll be looking forward to hearing some news.
> > > Thank you.
> > > Jules
Posted by shia on February 18, 2002, at 19:37:31
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Cal on May 12, 2000, at 16:17:12
To Cal: I just read your message and it breaks my heart. I know exactly what you and your wife are going through. At the age of thirteen, when I had my first period, I noticed that I had mild mood swings. They got worse a year later. My parents sent me to several psychiatrists assuming my "problem" was your basic teenage rebellion. My parents and I had noticed that my mood swings were related to my menses. A week before my period I'd have extreme outbursts of anger,lots of energy (even though I would sleep for two hours per night)and a general feeling that I was out of control. The week of my period I would be severely depressed (sometimes suicidal), trouble concentrating plus a bunch of other emotional and physical symptoms. For the other two weeks of my cycle I was normal. The doctors all said that my mood swings had absolutely no relation to my period. I was diagnosed as manic depressive at the age of fourteen and was immediately sent to a psychiatric hospital for four and half months. I was put on various combinations of drugs, some that left me in a ghost like stupor. But I kept having the mood swings. Over a year ago I saw a talk show about PMDD. The first woman on the panel said she was diagnosed as a manic depressive during her late teens and had taken many different types of medication to no avail. She was finally diagnosed with PMDD in her forties. To think that this woman had to suffer for two decades astounds me. It is not right that your wife, myself and god knows how many women had to suffer simply because there is not enough research and information or that doctors don't care enough to dig deeper when patients complain of various symptoms. All the information I have found were on the internet and in holistic medical books. If you would like any recommendations or would like to chat please feel free to e-mail me at shiapet715@aol.com. I am 25 now and although I spent a decade of my life treating a disorder (manic depression) that I did not have instead of PMDD is upsetting. But I take comfort in knowing that I am no longer alone and now for the first time in my life I look forward to my future and each upcoming month with hope instead of dread. I wish you and your wife my best wishes and good health.
Sincerely,
Shia
Posted by shia on February 21, 2002, at 16:31:07
In reply to PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, posted by Jan on March 1, 1999, at 10:54:47
hi tina lynne. I wanted to let you know that your doctor is right that certain foods can make the symptoms worse. PMS and PMDD are usually caused by excessive levels of estrogen and in adequate levels of progesterone. Hormonal fluctuations lead to retention, which affects circulation, reducing the amount of oxygen reaching the uterus, ovaries, and brain. Eating red meat and dairy products may cause or contribute to such a hormonal imbalance. Dairy products block the absorption of magnesium and increase its urinary excretion. Refined sugars also increase magnesium excretion. Caffeine is linked to breast tenderness and is a central nervous system stimulant that can make you anxious and jittery. It also acts as a diuretic and can deplete many important nutrients. A great protein alternative is rice and beans,when you combine the two it has compounds similar to protein find in meats. Nuts are also high in protein. I hope this info provides you with help and much needed relief.
shia
Posted by Mia2002 on March 6, 2002, at 14:58:44
In reply to PMDD:So many questions!, posted by Jules726 on January 27, 2001, at 19:14:46
I'm 20 years old and I have been suffering with severe Pms since I was 14. It begins up to two weeks before my period starts. When I was 15 the doctor put me on birth control to help the symptoms but they never went away. Many people say I'm just sensitive however, the things I go through around my period are simply unacceptable to me. I snap out, when normally I am a very upbeat and happy person. I can not control crying, I'm become over emotional. My family laughs about it but it has become more severe the older I get. Recently I told the doctor about this he suggested Sarafem for PMMD. Besides birth control I've never taking medicine on a daily basis. Actually I've always been kind of against it. However, I agreed and have been taking it for 3 weeks. There have been no signs of PMS now. No one knew I was getting my period, my mood stayed the same. I guess I'm happy but I'm just skeptical about this drug. I feel as though it’s basically period-Prozac. That’s what I've been calling it. If anyone has any advice or just want to let me know of any future side effects please write back.... Thank you.
My side effects have consisted of: not getting a good night sleep, diarrhea, night sweats, yawning very often and lack of appetite.
Posted by Tuck on August 23, 2002, at 14:57:19
In reply to Re: PMDD - Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder-long » Sunnie, posted by akrake on August 15, 2001, at 12:53:57
I have been reading through these messages all day hoping I have found some answers. I am at my whits end. I have three kids, am 34 years old and have been miserable for the last year and a half. Prior to that I was either pregnant or on the pill. Since then I have always suffered my worst pms the week after my period. (the moodiness part of it anyways) The uncontrollable eating is the week before. I went to the doctor with a card that I had torn out of a magazine about Sarafem. He (who is always in a hurry) gave me some samples to try and hurried me out of his office. This was in Feb. 2001. I took the Sarafem for not even a week and had a herrible reaction to it. It was the 2nd week in Feb. and I was driving to the mall with my 2 year old. I felt like I was going to pass out, sort of. Like I couldn't concentrate on driving. I had a hard time speaking and basically felt really out of it. Well the whole thing was chalked up to side effects of the drug and I quit taking it obviously! But, I still have the same problems around the middle of the month.(2 weeks into my cycle) I have to have someone drive me places, I feel like I am spacing out....
This has been going on for a year and a half now and I don't think a weeks worth of Sarafem can mess you up that bad, but now that I read some of the other messages about concentration and driving I am wondering if I do have PMDD. I didn't think I needed the Sarafem for the depression. I have a great hubby and kids and I am not at all depressed. Confused maybe! I have been to many doctors. I have had an EEG of the brain and a MRI done, both were read as normal. My big thing is that these spells (so to speak) are always in the middle of the month......
If anyone out there has any info. I would love to hear it!!!!
Kathy
Posted by katekite on August 23, 2002, at 16:45:12
In reply to PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by Tuck on August 23, 2002, at 14:57:19
Have you seen an endocrinologist?
Kate
Posted by nikioct73 on August 23, 2002, at 20:02:22
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by katekite on August 23, 2002, at 16:45:12
Sarafem...is Prozac in a purple jacket to make it 'female friendly'.....and NOT the greatest med for PMDD...Did you OB/GYN prescribe this for you or was it your PCP..you might need to try something else...good luck
Posted by Tuck on August 23, 2002, at 20:20:59
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by nikioct73 on August 23, 2002, at 20:02:22
> Sarafem...is Prozac in a purple jacket to make it 'female friendly'.....and NOT the greatest med for PMDD...Did you OB/GYN prescribe this for you or was it your PCP..you might need to try something else...good luck
My family Dr. gave it to me. My OB/GYN thought I was having panic attacks.... Which I know wasn't true.. Do you think my symptoms describe PMDD? I thought depression was a big part of PMDD? I don't have that at all. Just this weird head/brain thing...
Posted by polarbear206 on August 23, 2002, at 20:58:24
In reply to PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by Tuck on August 23, 2002, at 14:57:19
> I have been reading through these messages all day hoping I have found some answers. I am at my whits end. I have three kids, am 34 years old and have been miserable for the last year and a half. Prior to that I was either pregnant or on the pill. Since then I have always suffered my worst pms the week after my period. (the moodiness part of it anyways) The uncontrollable eating is the week before. I went to the doctor with a card that I had torn out of a magazine about Sarafem. He (who is always in a hurry) gave me some samples to try and hurried me out of his office. This was in Feb. 2001. I took the Sarafem for not even a week and had a herrible reaction to it. It was the 2nd week in Feb. and I was driving to the mall with my 2 year old. I felt like I was going to pass out, sort of. Like I couldn't concentrate on driving. I had a hard time speaking and basically felt really out of it. Well the whole thing was chalked up to side effects of the drug and I quit taking it obviously! But, I still have the same problems around the middle of the month.(2 weeks into my cycle) I have to have someone drive me places, I feel like I am spacing out....
> This has been going on for a year and a half now and I don't think a weeks worth of Sarafem can mess you up that bad, but now that I read some of the other messages about concentration and driving I am wondering if I do have PMDD. I didn't think I needed the Sarafem for the depression. I have a great hubby and kids and I am not at all depressed. Confused maybe! I have been to many doctors. I have had an EEG of the brain and a MRI done, both were read as normal. My big thing is that these spells (so to speak) are always in the middle of the month......
> If anyone out there has any info. I would love to hear it!!!!
> Kathy
Kathy,You could have an underlying mood disorder, I had
some of the same problems starting mid cycle. Confusion, lethargy, concentration problems. some antidepressants can exacerbate underlying mood disorders. Prozac and sarafem are the same drug. I couldn't take prozac at all. The week after my period was worse also until I started taking Lamictal in addition to my antidepressants. Make sure you have your thyroid checked before starting
any drugs for depression and bipolar disorders. I hope this info helps.Laura
Posted by nikioct73 on August 23, 2002, at 21:34:23
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by Tuck on August 23, 2002, at 20:20:59
Hey..decribe what happens...and prozac is an AD and not an antianxity med..PMDD is a very serious thing...and depression is a huge part..Weird head brain thing?...have you seen a neurologist??
Posted by Gracie2 on August 23, 2002, at 21:46:42
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by polarbear206 on August 23, 2002, at 20:58:24
I'm 42 and haven't had to deal with periods or PMS for almost 9 years now. It's wonderful.
I would recommend Nor-plant or the Depro-Provera
injection to anyone who doesn't want more children. I've heard rumors (prehaps unfounded)
that anyone who uses either of these birth control methods may have trouble concieving later on. This wasn't a concern for me.
I've also talked to women who said that not having periods "isn't right", is "unnatural", and in one instance, would make her feel "less of a woman." I find this astonishing...look at all the "unnatural" things we women subject ourselves to, from Botox to birth control pills to vaccines.
As far as long-term health concerns, I have regular GYN check-ups and, after 9 years on Norplant/Depro, I'm quite healthy.
It's amazing to me why any woman would subject herself to the mess, the mood swings, the water retention and all the other horrors of periods and PMS when this is no longer necessary, not to mention the pregnancy scares when you "slip up".
I'd never go back to all that.
-Gracie
Posted by Tuck on August 24, 2002, at 8:32:04
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by nikioct73 on August 23, 2002, at 21:34:23
> Hey..decribe what happens...and prozac is an AD and not an antianxity med..PMDD is a very serious thing...and depression is a huge part..Weird head brain thing?...have you seen a neurologist??
I am seeing a neurologist on Monday. Although, my EEG and my MRI have came back normal. When I am having one of my middle of the month hardships it is like I am out of it. My head feels like it is not attached. When I am driving it freaks me out because I can't concentrate on the road. I get real warm and usually fan myself and sometimes feel a little neauseated. I try to blink to clear my head and I always have a headache in the back of my head. Which is followed by a few days of a bad headache. Then the next week I feel completely like myself again. Until that is, I get bitchy because it is pms time!!! Every other blood test I have had (including thyroid) has came back normal. Except for an ANA test that for me is always elevated.
These things that I have at the middle of the month have gotten so bad that I call my husband or my mom to come over. I have never lost consiousness during one though...
Posted by Tuck on August 24, 2002, at 8:58:30
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by polarbear206 on August 23, 2002, at 20:58:24
> > I have been reading through these messages all day hoping I have found some answers. I am at my whits end. I have three kids, am 34 years old and have been miserable for the last year and a half. Prior to that I was either pregnant or on the pill. Since then I have always suffered my worst pms the week after my period. (the moodiness part of it anyways) The uncontrollable eating is the week before. I went to the doctor with a card that I had torn out of a magazine about Sarafem. He (who is always in a hurry) gave me some samples to try and hurried me out of his office. This was in Feb. 2001. I took the Sarafem for not even a week and had a herrible reaction to it. It was the 2nd week in Feb. and I was driving to the mall with my 2 year old. I felt like I was going to pass out, sort of. Like I couldn't concentrate on driving. I had a hard time speaking and basically felt really out of it. Well the whole thing was chalked up to side effects of the drug and I quit taking it obviously! But, I still have the same problems around the middle of the month.(2 weeks into my cycle) I have to have someone drive me places, I feel like I am spacing out....
> > This has been going on for a year and a half now and I don't think a weeks worth of Sarafem can mess you up that bad, but now that I read some of the other messages about concentration and driving I am wondering if I do have PMDD. I didn't think I needed the Sarafem for the depression. I have a great hubby and kids and I am not at all depressed. Confused maybe! I have been to many doctors. I have had an EEG of the brain and a MRI done, both were read as normal. My big thing is that these spells (so to speak) are always in the middle of the month......
> > If anyone out there has any info. I would love to hear it!!!!
> > Kathy
>
>
> Kathy,
>
> You could have an underlying mood disorder, I had
> some of the same problems starting mid cycle. Confusion, lethargy, concentration problems. some antidepressants can exacerbate underlying mood disorders. Prozac and sarafem are the same drug. I couldn't take prozac at all. The week after my period was worse also until I started taking Lamictal in addition to my antidepressants. Make sure you have your thyroid checked before starting
> any drugs for depression and bipolar disorders. I hope this info helps.
>
> LauraLaura, what is Lamictal?
Posted by polarbear206 on August 24, 2002, at 10:37:27
In reply to Re: PMDD-sarafem disaster, posted by Tuck on August 24, 2002, at 8:58:30
> > > I have been reading through these messages all day hoping I have found some answers. I am at my whits end. I have three kids, am 34 years old and have been miserable for the last year and a half. Prior to that I was either pregnant or on the pill. Since then I have always suffered my worst pms the week after my period. (the moodiness part of it anyways) The uncontrollable eating is the week before. I went to the doctor with a card that I had torn out of a magazine about Sarafem. He (who is always in a hurry) gave me some samples to try and hurried me out of his office. This was in Feb. 2001. I took the Sarafem for not even a week and had a herrible reaction to it. It was the 2nd week in Feb. and I was driving to the mall with my 2 year old. I felt like I was going to pass out, sort of. Like I couldn't concentrate on driving. I had a hard time speaking and basically felt really out of it. Well the whole thing was chalked up to side effects of the drug and I quit taking it obviously! But, I still have the same problems around the middle of the month.(2 weeks into my cycle) I have to have someone drive me places, I feel like I am spacing out....
> > > This has been going on for a year and a half now and I don't think a weeks worth of Sarafem can mess you up that bad, but now that I read some of the other messages about concentration and driving I am wondering if I do have PMDD. I didn't think I needed the Sarafem for the depression. I have a great hubby and kids and I am not at all depressed. Confused maybe! I have been to many doctors. I have had an EEG of the brain and a MRI done, both were read as normal. My big thing is that these spells (so to speak) are always in the middle of the month......
> > > If anyone out there has any info. I would love to hear it!!!!
> > > Kathy
> >
> >
> > Kathy,
> >
> > You could have an underlying mood disorder, I had
> > some of the same problems starting mid cycle. Confusion, lethargy, concentration problems. some antidepressants can exacerbate underlying mood disorders. Prozac and sarafem are the same drug. I couldn't take prozac at all. The week after my period was worse also until I started taking Lamictal in addition to my antidepressants. Make sure you have your thyroid checked before starting
> > any drugs for depression and bipolar disorders. I hope this info helps.
> >
> > Laura
>
> Laura, what is Lamictal?
>
>
Kathy,Lamictal is a mood stabilizer used to treat bipolar disorders. Many anticonvulsants are used for bipolars. What is so great about this drug is that it acts as a mood stabilizer/antidepressant. It is also being used for severe pmdd. pmdd and bipolar mood disorders mimmick each other as far as some of their symptoms. So pmdd can look like bipolar and bipolar can look like pmdd. This can be very confusing for a proper diagnosis. Track you moods with a calandar every month. Write down what symptoms you are experiencing. You need to see a psychiatrist and not your regular primary care doctor.
Laura.
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