![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 23 of 23. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by sweetmarie on April 7, 2001, at 13:23:08
Has anyone become well and stayed well on a medication or combination of medications ???
I`d really like to know, because I`m beginning to wonder about this whole medication malarkey.
Anna.
Posted by Shirley2 on April 7, 2001, at 15:25:37
In reply to HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 7, 2001, at 13:23:08
Anna,
Before I answer your post, I just want to let everyone on the board know that I am the same person as Shirley1 and Shirley. I keep loosing my registration information, that's why I have to keep registering. Hopefully, this will be the last time.
You have asked an excellent question and one I have wondered about myself due to continuous side effects, especially the dreaded weight gain. I know that in order to have a recovery, a person has to continously work at active change such as replacing negative thoughts with positive ones, etc. For most people, in my opinion, meds alone are not the answer. But if a person is constantly battling troublesome side effects or just can't find a medicine that even works partially, how can she/he have the strength to do the emotional work that is necessary for recovery?
My own experience - In looking at the total picture which I have a hard time doing, meds have pulled me out of a suicidal depression and gotten me employed again. Of course, I had to do some emotional work but without the meds, the 2nd part wouldn't have happened.
At work, I have managed to survive a very tough environment due to the floor the medicines gave me and the coping skills I learned as the result of having the floor. I have learned how to play the political game that I had no clue about previously.
But because of side effects from meds, I missed more work last year than I did in the previous three years. Can't even call in sick anymore:)) out of fear I will need those days for my med problems. Even when I haven't missed days, I have been late thanks to meds problems and unproductive at work.
Fortunately, I have an understanding boss and not an overwhelming amount of work to do. But the tasks are very boring and way below my skill level. I plan to see what else is out there and I intend to do everything possible to make sure my next supervisor is as understanding as the current one. In spite of my vow to find something more to my liking, I have a fear that the side effects bugaboo will roar its ugly head.
Finally, I realize that I'm alot more fortunate than many people on this board. Also, I was lucky to have a good year on Zoloft and Adderall but since then, only for a few days. I have thought about going off meds but I also don't want to go back to my suicidal days.
I plan to start increasing my exercise program to see if maybe that would help minimize the side effects, such as alot of weight gain. But judging from people's posts on this board, I don't have too much hope of that. But at least, I'll be healthier so it would be worthwhile.
Great question.
Shirley
Posted by Adam on April 7, 2001, at 15:36:15
In reply to HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 7, 2001, at 13:23:08
Yes. I have. I was unsuccessfully treated for years, and then tried an MAOI. I am 100% better than I was, absolutely no question. Not perfect, but much, much better.
It's not malarkey. I can understand feeling that way, though, because I did for a while. I'm not certain if some people can be adequately treated using what is currently available, but I think it is safe to say that most people will find something that works tolerably well for them eventually.
>
>
> Has anyone become well and stayed well on a medication or combination of medications ???
>
> I`d really like to know, because I`m beginning to wonder about this whole medication malarkey.
>
> Anna.
Posted by sweetmarie on April 7, 2001, at 16:04:32
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Adam on April 7, 2001, at 15:36:15
> Yes. I have. I was unsuccessfully treated for years, and then tried an MAOI. I am 100% better than I was, absolutely no question. Not perfect, but much, much better.
That is encouraging to hear. I`ve been on tons of different drugs - unsuccessfully - over the past 10 years from most of the categories (probably about 14 different ones, plus combinations, plus ECT). I`m shortly to go into hospital to try a new combination (I`ve been referred to a specialist in treatment resistant depression, and I`ll be `under` his care). My depression is severe and all-encompassing, and I really don`t relish the prospect of living out the rest of my days like this. >
> It's not malarkey.
I sincerely hope not.
I can understand feeling that way, though, because I did for a while. I'm not certain if some people can be adequately treated using what is currently available, but I think it is safe to say that most people
That`s where I get nervous. `Most` implies `not everyone`, and I`m scared to death that I`ll be the one for whom nothing will work.
will find something that works tolerably well for them eventually.
I hope so, and thanks for your reply.
Anna.
>
Posted by Shirley2 on April 7, 2001, at 16:25:25
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 7, 2001, at 16:04:32
Anna,
In no way am I comparing my situation to yours because after reading your second post, I feel very fortunate. However, I do understand your fear about the word "Most" because I seem to be in the .01 percent side effect category. Fortunately, I am getting enough benefits
to feel like taking meds is worth it but I just wanted to let you know why I understood your fear.I'm curious, what does this treatment resistant specialist propose to do that hasn't been done already? Lots of luck with that.
Finally, there was a headline article on medscape about how treatment resistant depression may respond to exercise. I'm sure there was more to the article than was on the site but from first appearances, it sounded like very simplistic thinking. There is no question in my mind that exercise lessens depression for most people (oh there is that word again < g >) but it's clear from the posts on this board that there is more to that situation than just plain old exercising.
Of course, if I'm missing something, I stand corrected.Good luck Anna.
Shirley
Posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 6:02:05
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Shirley2 on April 7, 2001, at 16:25:25
Shirley,
I do understand your fear about the word "Most" because I seem to be in the .01 percent side effect category. Fortunately, I am getting enough benefits to feel like taking meds is worth it but I just wanted to let you know why I understood your fear.
As it happens, I have never really suffered any side effects from the medications I have been on. The only side effect I`ve had is the (quite considerable) weight gain I`ve had on Nardil. That`s been about the extent of it. To be honest, I would tolerate side effects, if it meant that I felt O.K. I`ve never discontinued meds due to side effects - it`s always been because they have had no effect on my mood. >
> I'm curious, what does this treatment resistant specialist propose to do that hasn't been done already?
Well, for a number of years, my illness wasn`t really recognised as such. In other words, although I`ve been suffering from depression on and off all my life (I`m 34 now), I always just told myself it would go away if I ignored it. So, I was always just treated by my GP. We all (me, family, friends, doctors etc) believed that it was based on circumstances etc. I preferred to see it this way, as it meant that I wasn`t suffering a mental illness (couldn`t deal with that concept). So, for a long time, my GP kind of chucked anti-depressants my way, without really giving any careful thought as to why the situation was persisting, and that I just wasn`t responding to the meds. It wasn`t until 3 years ago, when I began this horrible period of very severe depression, and had to be hospitalised, that I (and others) were forced to accept the reality. Even then, the first psychiatrist I saw `washed his hands` of me after the failure of two medications. I think he saw me as untreatable. I then went to another psychiatrist, who is my current psychiatrist, and she does take me seriously. Over the past 18 months, she has tried her best (with the best of her knowledge - which of course is not just about depression, but all other forms of mental illness too), but has failed to come up with the right thing for me. Last August, she realised that she had reached her limit, and referred me on to this specialist. As I said, he deals specifically with `difficult to treat depression`, which is certainly what I have. The point I`m trying to make, is that my illness was not really recognised as such until fairly recently. Therefore, I`ve really only just had a proper diagnosis, which was given to me from the afore-mentioned specialist when I saw him in January. So, in answer to your question, he has actually given me an accurate diagnosis, which will hopefully narrow the field in his choice of medications. He has much better knowledge of the treatment of depression (esp. resistant depression), and will therefore be better positioned to pinpoint the appropriate meds. I hope that this makes some sense.
Lots of luck with that.
Thanks. >
> Finally, there was a headline article on medscape about how treatment resistant depression may respond to exercise. I'm sure there was more to the article than was on the site but from first appearances, it sounded like very simplistic thinking. There is no question in my mind that exercise lessens depression for most people (oh there is that word again < g >) but it's clear from the posts on this board that there is more to that situation than just plain old exercising.
Yes, I know that there is a connection between exercise and relieving depression. Prior to 3 years ago, I did exercise fairly regularly, and it did go some way to alleviating the feelings. Sadly, my depression is so severe now that quite often just getting out of bed is all that I can manage. Exercise just isn`t an option any more, sadly.
Anyway, sorry for the extended posting. Hope you`re still awake after reading it.
Thanks a lot for your reply to my post, and your encouragement. >
Anna.
Posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 7:10:18
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ... » Shirley2, posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 6:02:05
Anna,
Thanks for your post as it makes perfect sense. I am so sorry that you had to suffer so needlessly and I hope this specialist that you will be seeing will get you back on the right track.
Let me clarify my statement on side effects. I know that you were in no way being critical of me but I realize that I wasn't very clear the first time.
I too am willing to put up with alot of side effects because if my mood and life improve significantly, the tradeoff is worth it. But sometimes, they are so intolerable with no possible benefits, that there is no way I can ride out the storm. Some of those side effects that I experienced don't seem to be common or they don't seem to be ones that my psychiatrist has heard of.
Since I realize that many people on this board are alot worse off than I am and would love to be in my position of having to deal with side effects, I just wanted to make sure my position was clear.
Shirley
Posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 7:34:11
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 7:10:18
Shirley
> Let me clarify my statement on side effects. I know that you were in no way being critical of me but I realize that I wasn't very clear the first time.
No, I wasn`t being critical at all, and I`m sorry if it sounded that way. >
> I too am willing to put up with alot of side effects because if my mood and life improve significantly, the tradeoff is worth it.
Couldn`t agree more.
But sometimes, they are so intolerable with no possible benefits, that there is no way I can ride out the storm. Some of those side effects that I experienced don't seem to be common or they don't seem to be ones that my psychiatrist has heard of.Sounds bad. What kind of things?
I`m also aware (although I wasn`t before reading various postings on this board) that some side effects make taking the medication concerned completely impossible. I guess I`d always imagined that `the worst` that could happen was dry mouth/constipation etc. I realise now that I was totally wrong. >
> Since I realize that many people on this board are alot worse off than I am and would love to be in my position of having to deal with side effects, I just wanted to make sure my position was clear.
There`s absolutely no need for self-reproach. You don`t have to justify your position at all. Hopefully, others will eventually find what is right for them too. Given the facts (and the vast amount of knowledge there is now about medications etc.), logic predicts that `we all` should be O.K. with patience (not easy, but necessary). >
Anna.
Posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 8:45:39
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ... » Shirley2, posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 7:34:11
Anna,
Right now, I am having a very hard time with meds so I'm probably in the supersensitive mode and probably worried about what people on this board will think when I shouldn't be concerned. It really has nothing to do with your post.
The side effects you asked about:
1. Foot pain from Zoloft that required my taking something for relief. Not the garden variety pain. Finally convinced the psychiatrist it was related although it was hard at first because he had never heard of it.
2. After a clear out of Zoloft, tried Celexa. Even 5 mg. made me so agiatated that I thought I was literally going to die. I was at work and how I got through that day, I'll never know. Went back to Zoloft and the pain threated to come back but didn't. I said that it wasn't welcome in my home:))
3. Got pretty stabalized (I guess) but after a few months, continued to have agiatation once a month, usually three days after my period had started. My psychiatrist had no idea and I finally found a possible answer in Valerie Raskin's book, in which she said hormone levels can affect the med level. She described my problem as rare since it happened after my period started. She suggested raising the dose two weeks prior to menstruation and going back to regular level afterwards.
4. After Zoloft and Adderall continued to cause agiation on other days besides after PMS, I switched to Prozac and Adderall because I was gaining weight rapidly on Zoloft with no end in sight. Would have put up with the weight gain but the other side effects made it not worth it.
5. Prozac and Adderall seemed to have promise and two weeks ago, I had the best week I've had in 5 years. After my period started, I didn't even get the monthly agiatation I usually get. But now, chain reactions of agiation and irritability have been continuously set off. Don't know whether changing the Prozac levels does that or if something else is needed.
Again, I'm willing to deal with the weight gain I'm getting even though I don't like it but something just isn't right. I intend to ask my psychiatrist for a longer appointment because I want him to take a fresh look at everything. I may ask a referral for a second opinion because I am tired of this crap.
I probably told you more than you wanted to know but I'm just in a bad place right now. Anyway, thank god for this board, it keeps me going.
Shirley
Posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 11:11:12
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 8:45:39
Shirley,
>
> Right now, I am having a very hard time with meds so I'm probably in the supersensitive mode and probably worried about what people on this board will think when I shouldn't be concerned.I know what you mean. No worries. >
> The side effects you asked about:
>
> 1. Foot pain from Zoloft that required my taking something for relief. Not the garden variety pain. Finally convinced the psychiatrist it was related although it was hard at first because he had never heard of it.- That`s interesting, because I started having really bad pain in both feet (the right one in particular) after I started on Nardil. It was so bad that I found walking very difficult indeed. I`d put on a lot of weight (which I still haven`t lost) with Nardil, and everyone I spoke to about this (my psychiatrist, my GP and also a chiropodist I consulted), assured me that the pain in my feet was to do with being overweight. It wasn`t until I was looking at medication side effects (I have a skin rash, and was trying to sort out whether it was medication related), that I saw that `swollen and painful feet` are a side effect of Nardil. I have to say that I was really cross about this - surely my psychiatrist could have found this information out for me. I had believed that it was a weight thing, which you can imagine, felt like `insult to injury` (it was bad enough being overweight, but so overweight that my feet couldn`t cope with it?!). It seems to me that any ailment which occurs at the same time, or shortly after, starting a new medication is very likely to be to do with the medication. WE shouldn`t have to be the ones telling our psychiatrists this. >
> 2. After a clear out of Zoloft, tried Celexa. Even 5 mg. made me so agiatated that I thought I was literally going to die. I was at work and how I got through that day, I'll never know. Went back to Zoloft and the pain threated to come back but didn't. I said that it wasn't welcome in my home:))
>
> 3. Got pretty stabalized (I guess) but after a few months, continued to have agiatation once a month, usually three days after my period had started. My psychiatrist had no idea and I finally found a possible answer in Valerie Raskin's book, in which she said hormone levels can affect the med level. She described my problem as rare since it happened after my period started. She suggested raising the dose two weeks prior to menstruation and going back to regular level afterwards.Again, this is the sort of information that should be researched and provided by our psychiatrists. Sorry if it sounds like I`m ranting - I just feel very strongly about this. Finding out information for yourself is all well and good, if you have the capacity to do this. What I mean is that we (and most people posting on this board) have some amount of self-awareness, and motivation to look into different medications/side-effects etc. There is a large number of people without this capability, and cannot as easily `fill the gaps` left for us by our psychiatrists.
More importantly, it`s extremely difficult to even think of doing your own research, when so often it`s all you can do to perform the simplest of tasks. >
> 4. After Zoloft and Adderall continued to cause agiation on other days besides after PMS, I switched to Prozac and Adderall because I was gaining weight rapidly on Zoloft with no end in sight. Would have put up with the weight gain but the other side effects made it not worth it.
>
> 5. Prozac and Adderall seemed to have promise and two weeks ago, I had the best week I've had in 5 years. After my period started, I didn't even get the monthly agiatation I usually get. But now, chain reactions of agiation and irritability have been continuously set off. Don't know whether changing the Prozac levels does that or if something else is needed.
>
> Again, I'm willing to deal with the weight gain I'm getting even though I don't like itI agree - I would gladly put up with the weight gain (well not gladly exactly, but you know what I mean), if the result was a loss of depression. So, it really gets up my nose that a) I`m 3 stone overweight, and b) I have a horrible skin rash, with absolutely no change whatsoever in my mood.
but something just isn't right. I intend to ask my psychiatrist for a longer appointment because I want him to take a fresh look at everything.
That`s a good idea, but it may not throw up any further information. What I mean is, it`s often the case that psychiatrists are `blinkered` to a certain way of thinking. Your depression sounds quite difficult to treat, and may therefore be outside the expertise of your psychiatrist. This sounds like I`m trying to put you off, which I`m not trying to do at all. I suppose what I`m really doing is going by my own experience.
I may ask a referral for a second opinion because I am tired of this crap.
That sounds like a better idea (if the `longer appointment` scenario doesn`t produce any results). It`s often a good idea to go to another psychiatrist, if only for an opinion. They are in a position to view the whole thing with `fresh eyes`, and hopefully to be able to see the thing from a different angle. I don`t know where you live (i.e. the States or here - UK), but it might be worth asking your psychiatrist if he knows of a specialist he can refer you to. The reason I suggest this, is that I`ve recently seen one (as I`ve told you), and I spent an hour and a half with him whilst he asked me every question under the sun. Literally everything. For example, he didn`t just questions like `how depressed are
you?`, but questions like `how does it feel when you are depressed - physical symptoms/are you able to cry/is it possible to talk?` etc. He also wanted to know about my experiences of depression throughout my life - when they occurred, how they felt etc, etc. It was with this information that he was able to give me the diagnosis of `chronic severe double depression`. What this means in English, is that I have a condition called Dysthymia, which is a long-term low mood problem, usually life-long. It`s genetically based, and basically is part of my character `make-up`. On top of this, I have a major severe episode (the past 6/7 years) - hence `double`.My psychiatrist had never heard of this condition before (double depression), and had to look up Dysthymia. Do you see what I`m saying? >
> I probably told you more than you wanted to know but I'm just in a bad place right now.
Well, this board is the right place to be then.
Anyway, thank god for this board, it keeps me going.
You and me, both.
I hope that you don`t think I`ve been poking my nose in, by saying all this. After all, what do I know? It just seemed worth saying that`s all, and it`s often good to hear what others have to say on the matter.
bw, >
Anna.
Posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 11:43:57
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 11:11:12
P.S.
If you are in the States, finding a specialist should be a lot easier to do than here.
Our National Health Service is very underfunded, especially in the Mental Health area. I believe that in this country (England, that is, not the whole of the UK), there are only 2 specialist places. I was referred to one of them in September, saw the professor in January, and am still waiting for a hospital admission (hopefully in 3 weeks` time). So, basically it`s taken 7 months already, and it`s likely to be another 3/4 weeks before I actually go into hospital for this treatment.
I`m sure that this won`t be the case anywhere outside of Britain.
Just thought I`d add that. Obviously, this is not much comfort if you do live here, but seeking an opinion from another psychiatrist will not take half as long, I`m quite sure.
Hope this is of some use. >
> Anna.
Posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 12:04:54
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 11:11:12
Anna,
Those goddam doctors, including non psychiatrists blame everything on weight even when it's clearly not the case. I don't blame you for being furious as I would have felt the same way.
Your input is greatly welcomed as you are so supportive and very non judgmental. I kind of need that as I don't get too much from my family.
So no, I don't think you're sticking your nose in it at all.I think you're so right that I need a second opinion and not a longer appointment. See, I am glad you stuck your nose in it:))
Fortunately, right now, I seem to be doing alot better so my theory of increasing my prozac and taking the adderall 1 hour apart from the prozac in the morning seems to be working. My depression this morning was related to family issues so we'll have to see whether I am right or not. But yesterday, I did this and I felt great but my mood sagged later in the day which I know wasn't due to the Adderall or it wearing off. When I took extra Prozac, a microdose, I felt alot better but when that wore off, the chain reaction of tearfullness and agiation continued until late morning. But once I had done what I needed to do to get something done in the morning, I could feel myself settling down until I had a fight with a family member. That's why the picture is a little clouded.
Thank you so much for telling me the types of questions that specialist asked you. That's exactly what I am looking for. I try to keep a diary but having LD/ADD, it's hard to do.
I live in the United States. If my problems aren't resolved, I will ask my psychiatrist to refer me to the same person he referred someone else who had similar problems. This person is based at a prestigious place, where they are on the cutting edge of research so she sounds good.
You're absolutely not ranting about psychiatrists as I agree with you that we shouldn't have to be doing their work. But what is and what should be are two different things, right?
I know you've mentioned this before but when do you go into the hospital under that guy's care? I hope he can come up with the right combination for you as it sounds like you're way way way overdue for some good luck.
Anna, you have been so helpful so please don't hesitate to make any comments or suggestions that you think might be useful. It sounds like you have been through the wars and I can definately learn from your experience. I'm sure you're pretty tired of teaching people:)) but I think you know what I mean.
Back to preparing dinner for my "wonderful" family.
Shirley
PS - Did I read correctly that if you're in the UK and on multiple drugs, you have to be in the hospital? Since our system is different and that doesn't happen unless you're suicidal, I am curious as to the reasoning. That's what I like about the internet, learning about how things are done in other countries. It helps me bridge my knowledge gap due to my LD
Posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 13:00:47
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 12:04:54
Shirley,
>
>
> Your input is greatly welcomed as you are so supportive and very non judgmental.I`m glad you think that.
> So no, I don't think you're sticking your nose in it at all.
Good, I was a bit worried ... >
> I think you're so right that I need a second opinion and not a longer appointment.
It`s definitely worth a shot, and could be the answer. >
> Fortunately, right now, I seem to be doing alot better so my theory of increasing my prozac and taking the adderall 1 hour apart from the prozac in the morning seems to be working. My depression this morning was related to family issues so we'll have to see whether I am right or not. But yesterday, I did this and I felt great but my mood sagged later in the day which I know wasn't due to the Adderall or it wearing off. When I took extra Prozac, a microdose, I felt alot better but when that wore off, the chain reaction of tearfullness and agiation continued until late morning. But once I had done what I needed to do to get something done in the morning, I could feel myself settling down until I had a fight with a family member. That's why the picture is a little clouded.
It`s hard I know, to sift out the `inner` stuff, from the circumstantial stuff. For example, Since the referral to the specialist, I have been very bad indeed - hardly having any reasonable days at all (the last was about 2 and a half weeks ago). Prior to that, I was having far more `O.K.` days. I really don`t know whether this is the case, but I reckon that all this waiting around has caused a lot of anxiety. The biggest anxiety is that it won`t help me at all, and then what? I`ve been disappointed so many times before, that I just don`t hold out much hope at all. On the other hand, I have EVERY hope, if you see what I mean. Kind of two conflicting things going on in my head. I had almost made up my mind NOT to go ahead with this whole escapade: just didn`t think I could cope with the consequences, if it wasn`t successful. This is a very long-winded way of saying that I don`t know either how much outside factors cause (or worsen) the depression. I prefer to think that they do, because the concept that my brain has created this monster is very hard for me to get my head around. >
> Thank you so much for telling me the types of questions that specialist asked you.
Those are the kinds of questions necessary for a full assessment, which it sounds like you need.
That's exactly what I am looking for. I try to keep a diary but having LD/ADD, it's hard to do.
I used to keep a diary, but it was just silly: almost every entry said stuff like `feel like shit today`, or `I can`t cope with this much longer`, which at the end of the day aren`t really all that helpful. >
> I live in the United States. If my problems aren't resolved, I will ask my psychiatrist to refer me to the same person he referred someone else who had similar problems. This person is based at a prestigious place, where they are on the cutting edge of research so she sounds good.
Sounds like a good place. The place I`m going to is also well established as a `place of excellence`, and the professor bloke is well respected in his field. >
> You're absolutely not ranting about psychiatrists as I agree with you that we shouldn't have to be doing their work. But what is and what should be are two different things, right?
You`re not wrong, unfortunately. >
> I know you've mentioned this before but when do you go into the hospital under that guy's care?
In approx 4 weeks time. Too far away by half.
I hope he can come up with the right combination for you as it sounds like you're way way way overdue for some good luck.
I hate to sound self-pitying, but I agree. This thing has gone on quite long enough, and I really don`t feel like I deserve it. Mind you, it doesn`t have anything to do with `deserve`, really - does it? >
> Anna, you have been so helpful so please don't hesitate to make any comments or suggestions that you think might be useful. It sounds like you have been through the wars and I can definately learn from your experience. I'm sure you're pretty tired of teaching people:)) but I think you know what I mean.
No, I`m not tired at all. Well, only sometimes, and that`s mainly when I`m in hospital (I`ve been there 3 times before in the past 3 years). I find myself becoming the person that everyone comes to with their problems. I think that this is because I`m so good at hiding my depression that people don`t think there`s anything wrong. But this doesn`t apply to you I hasten to add. >
> Back to preparing dinner for my "wonderful" family.
A tad sarcastic ?? >
>
> PS - Did I read correctly that if you're in the UK and on multiple drugs, you have to be in the hospital? Since our system is different and that doesn't happen unless you're suicidal, I am curious as to the reasoning. That's what I like about the internet, learning about how things are done in other countries. It helps me bridge my knowledge gap due to my LDI read that somewhere else on this message board (that people in the UK have to go into hospital for multiple drug treatment). All I can say is that this isn`t the case in my area, or at least it hasn`t been the case with me. I can`t speak for other areas though.
What is LD?
all good things,
Anna.
p.s. how old are you?
Posted by Kathi on April 8, 2001, at 19:18:11
In reply to HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 7, 2001, at 13:23:08
>
>
> Has anyone become well and stayed well on a medication or combination of medications ???
>
> I`d really like to know, because I`m beginning to wonder about this whole medication malarkey.
>
> Anna.
>Hi Anna,
I have to say there is a lot of trial and error with getting the right meds or alternative meds. I have to add that exersice DOES create those endorphins that makes our moods better, but I'm the first one to admit it is hard to keep up on a regular basis. Also for women who may think they have pms they may also be going through hypoglycemic ups and downs which mimic many symptoms of major depression, anxiety, memory loss, etc. This can be helped simply with diet and mabey progesterone a couple of weeks before your period. It actually begins with a dip in depression on ovulation, approx. 14 days into cycle due to hormone levels. What a visious cycle...and then if you have other depression anxiety, compulsive disorders etc. other than this..boy it can get confusing. By correcting the PMS some women may find this is actually their biggest culprit. And for those of us who have both, what a releif to control some of the symptoms. My counselor told me of a book, that I have mentioned on another posting called "Unmasking PMS" I know you can get it for $5.99 at Boarders Book Store, or order it through whatever bookstore around you. Definately worth the reading!
Kathi (karen)
Posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 20:42:04
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 8, 2001, at 13:00:47
Hi Anna,
Yeah I was sarcastic about my family but believe me, they've earned it. Anyway, they only have themselves to blame as they were my best teachers:))
I certainly don't blame you for being anxious about whether this new treatment will be successful or not. I know I would be if I were in your position.
But the only way you're going to know if it works or not is to try it. If you don't try it, it's not going to have any chance of working right?:)) I hated it when people gave me that type of advice and here I'm doing it to you:)) Forgive me for being a hypocrite:))
To answer your question, LD stands for learning disability and I am 45. For those people who are not familiar with LD, it means we have average to above average intelligence but due to faulty wiring in our brains, depending on which areas give us trouble, we have problems learning the traditional way. For example, I have trouble reading alot of written material (reading through posts on this board isn't a problem) and as a result, I prefer audio books.
Back to your situation - I don't mean to sound like a pop psychologist but I find it interesting that you seem to be the strong one in the hospital. That's good in a way because it takes your mind off your own problems. But I hope you make sure that your needs get taken care of also.
To end on a positive note, I survived my family dinner in one piece and I'm feeling better. Hope my luck continues and it crosses over the Atlantic Ocean in time to affect you during your hospital stay in four weeks. Then you have to send it back across the ocean and we'll keep pushing it back and forth. I don't have a pigeon so I'm not sure what we could use:)) If other people on this board want in on the action, they'll get some also.
Take care
Shirley
Posted by sweetmarie on April 9, 2001, at 4:05:58
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Adam on April 7, 2001, at 15:36:15
> Yes. I have. I was unsuccessfully treated for years, and then tried an MAOI. I am 100% better than I was, absolutely no question. Not perfect, but much, much better.
Adam,
Can I just ask - out of interest - which meds you had been on previous to this MAOI? Also, who was treating you (psychiatrist/GP/whatever)?
Also, which MAOI is it (I only ask, because I`ve been on Phenelzine (Nardil) for over a year, and besides giving me very sore feet and 3 stone in weight, it has done nothing at all to improve my mood)? >
> It's not malarkey. I can understand feeling that way, though, because I did for a while. I'm not certain if some people can be adequately treated using what is currently available, but I think it is safe to say that most people will find something that works tolerably well for them eventually.
>
I blooming well hope so. I`ve been on loads of stuff so far. Having said that, it hasn`t been until fairly recently, that the full extent of my illness has been recognised. In other words, up until 3 years ago, I`d been treated only by my GP, who saw it as a kind of `peripheral` problem, as I was still able to work (just), and continue a `normal` life. I encouraged this, as I didn`t really want to believe that it was anything serious. So, basically, anti-ds were chucked my way in a very random fashion, without very much attention to my actual symptoms/length of illness etc. It took my first hospital admission really to drive the point home (to all of us), and even then I had a totally crap psychiatrist, with absolutely no imagination/empathy/compassion or real expertise in treating severe chronic depression. He labelled it `atypical` and gave me Imipramine followed by ECT. When these two things failed to work, he just gave up on me.So, it`s only really been since I`ve been seeing my current psychiatrist (about 18 months now) that the ball has started to roll. She realised after a while that she had done as much as she could to help, with no result, and referred me to a specialist. So, that`s where I am now (waiting to be treated by him). > >
> >
I`d just be interested to know something of your med history, that`s all.Cheers, > >
> >
Anna.
Posted by sweetmarie on April 9, 2001, at 4:25:49
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 20:42:04
Shirley,
>
Anyway, they only have themselves to blame as they were my best teachers:))What do you mean by that? >
> I certainly don't blame you for being anxious about whether this new treatment will be successful or not. I know I would be if I were in your position.
>
> But the only way you're going to know if it works or not is to try it. If you don't try it, it's not going to have any chance of working right?:))I know that you`re right ... not taking the opportunity would be like `looking a gift horse in the mouth`, or whatever the saying is. I`d give you the same advice, too. It`s funny (hilarious), that we seem to be able to give excellent advice to other people - for me, about almost everything, although relationships are my particular `area of expertise`, whilst not giving it to ourselves, let alone following it. I`ve had some spectacular disasters in the relationship area, and yet the advice I give can`t really be faulted.
I hated it when people gave me that type of advice and here I'm doing it to you:)) Forgive me for being a hypocrite:))
Forgiven. As I said, I know exactly where you`re coming from on this one. >
> To answer your question, LD stands for learning disability and I am 45. For those people who are not familiar with LD, it means we have average to above average intelligence but due to faulty wiring in our brains, depending on which areas give us trouble, we have problems learning the traditional way. For example, I have trouble reading alot of written material (reading through posts on this board isn't a problem) and as a result, I prefer audio books.
Right. That must have been a major milestone around your neck. >
> Back to your situation - I don't mean to sound like a pop psychologist but I find it interesting that you seem to be the strong one in the hospital.
It`s not so hard to explain. I`m usually (9 times out of 10), the most `educated`, if you see what I mean. I don`t know how to put this, without sounding like a complete snob, but I think that others tend to think that because I speak `well` (or, `posh` as it`s normally referred to), and have a university background (well, a polytechnic background - same difference), that I must know the answers. This of course is complete rubbish, but ... I think it has more than a little to do with it.
That's good in a way because it takes your mind off your own problems.
It does, to an extent, but sometimes I`m longing to say `look at me, I`m really ill too!`
But I hope you make sure that your needs get taken care of also.
This is another stumbling block. Because I am so articulate about my illness, and I`m so practised in covering it up (I could get an Oscar for my award-winning performances of `being happy`), I find it hard to actually express my total despair. This probably sounds a bit arse about face, but it really is something I can`t seem to help doing. For example, when I go to my psychiatrist for my monthly appointment, I could have spent the entire 4 weeks lying on (or in) my bed, contemplating suicide, but when I`m faced with her, I just say it`s been `bad`, and act all stoic. It really works against me, I know, but I guess I`m afraid that she (and others) will think that I`m an unintelligent moron. I know that I have to do something about this though, and I did manage to make a bit of headway last time I saw her, when I spent the first 10 minutes crying. I`d never done that before, and I think that she was a little surprised.
>
> To end on a positive note, I survived my family dinner in one piece and I'm feeling better. Hope my luck continues and it crosses over the Atlantic Ocean in time to affect you during your hospital stay in four weeks. Then you have to send it back across the ocean and we'll keep pushing it back and forth. I don't have a pigeon so I'm not sure what we could use:)) If other people on this board want in on the action, they'll get some also.That`s a splendid idea!
>
You take care too,Anna.
Posted by Noa on April 9, 2001, at 22:33:52
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 7, 2001, at 16:04:32
Yes, it can be extremely discouraging and demoralizing to go through many trials of medications to no avail. It took a number of years to finally find a combo that helped me start feeling better.
No one can guarantee anything, but I just have to believe that it is worth keeping the efforts going to find what works for you. I certainly would not have beleived it possible to find a good combo for me, but I did, and I am glad I stuck around to find that out, because there is life on the other side.
Posted by Daveman on April 9, 2001, at 22:37:22
In reply to HAS ANYONE ..., posted by sweetmarie on April 7, 2001, at 13:23:08
Hey Anna:
It's Dave from LA, from the other thread:)
I am on a "cocktail" of Celexa 40 mg. and Remeron 15 mg., which has brought me out of a very deep depression/anxiety/panic/insomnia problem. I was on Xanax and then Klonopin short-term for the panic and anxiety, it worked well but scared me and I'm glad I was able to stabalize to where I could get off taking it continuously. I've still got that stuff for "as-needed" use but haven't needed it in six weeks. Six weeks with no panic attacks! You cannot know how relieved and happy I am.
I had very few side effects to Celexa except for minor nausea for a few days which has long since disappeared. I gained the usual 10 pounds my first month on Remeron, a very fair trade for correcting my sleep cycle and getting me off regular benzo use. I do know that some people have discontinuation syndromes from Celexa (though my doc says not everyone, plus he'll take me off slowly when the time comes), but I'll probably be on it at least 6-8 months, so I'll jump off that bridge when I come to it:)
Cheers!
Dave
>
>
> Has anyone become well and stayed well on a medication or combination of medications ???
>
> I`d really like to know, because I`m beginning to wonder about this whole medication malarkey.
>
> Anna.
Posted by Noa on April 9, 2001, at 22:38:16
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Shirley2 on April 8, 2001, at 12:04:54
I believe Adam S is the one in the UK, while this Adam is in the US.
Posted by sweetmarie on April 10, 2001, at 6:30:12
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ... » sweetmarie, posted by Daveman on April 9, 2001, at 22:37:22
Dave,
>
> I am on a "cocktail" of Celexa 40 mg. and Remeron 15 mg., which has brought me out of a very deep depression/anxiety/panic/insomnia problem. I was on Xanax and then Klonopin short-term for the panic and anxiety, it worked well but scared me and I'm glad I was able to stabalize to where I could get off taking it continuously. I've still got that stuff for "as-needed" use but haven't needed it in six weeks. Six weeks with no panic attacks! You cannot know how relieved and happy I am.Does this mean that you have got rid of the depression too? (I haven`t had a panic attack for years - they just seemed to go away on their own one day. I remember how god-awful they were though, and I can see why you`re glad to be shot of them). >
> I had very few side effects to Celexa except for minor nausea for a few days which has long since disappeared. I gained the usual 10 pounds my first month on Remeron, a very fair trade for correcting my sleep cycle and getting me off regular benzo use. I do know that some people have discontinuation syndromes from Celexa (though my doc says not everyone, plus he'll take me off slowly when the time comes), but I'll probably be on it at least 6-8 months, so I'll jump off that bridge when I come to it:)
What`s all that about? Do you mean that your doctor will be taking you of meds altogether, or just the Celexa? By the way, I haven`t got a clue what Celexa is either - do you know it`s medical name?
If this is the case (that all meds are being discontinued), how do you feel about that? I`d be getting the screaming ab-dabs, that`s for sure. >
Cheers,
Anna (from Leeds, where the only bands ever to evolve from are `the Sisters of Mercy` , `the Mission`, and `Chumbawamba`. Not very exciting really).
Posted by Daveman on April 11, 2001, at 2:31:46
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ... » Daveman, posted by sweetmarie on April 10, 2001, at 6:30:12
Hi Anna:
First, yes, the Celexa has completely rid me of my depression.
Second, my docs say they will "consider" taking me off meds, but not until I am completely stabalized for at least 6-8 months and then only in consultation with me.
Third, "Celexa" is Citaprolam, a member of the SSRI family (i.e., Prozac, Paxil, etc.) I'm told it is quite popular in Europe.
Dave from LA, home of The Beach Boys:) (At their age, shouldn't that be The Beach Men? Nah, doesn't have the same ring to it...)
> Dave,
> >
> > I am on a "cocktail" of Celexa 40 mg. and Remeron 15 mg., which has brought me out of a very deep depression/anxiety/panic/insomnia problem. I was on Xanax and then Klonopin short-term for the panic and anxiety, it worked well but scared me and I'm glad I was able to stabalize to where I could get off taking it continuously. I've still got that stuff for "as-needed" use but haven't needed it in six weeks. Six weeks with no panic attacks! You cannot know how relieved and happy I am.
>
> Does this mean that you have got rid of the depression too? (I haven`t had a panic attack for years - they just seemed to go away on their own one day. I remember how god-awful they were though, and I can see why you`re glad to be shot of them). >
>
> > I had very few side effects to Celexa except for minor nausea for a few days which has long since disappeared. I gained the usual 10 pounds my first month on Remeron, a very fair trade for correcting my sleep cycle and getting me off regular benzo use. I do know that some people have discontinuation syndromes from Celexa (though my doc says not everyone, plus he'll take me off slowly when the time comes), but I'll probably be on it at least 6-8 months, so I'll jump off that bridge when I come to it:)
>
> What`s all that about? Do you mean that your doctor will be taking you of meds altogether, or just the Celexa? By the way, I haven`t got a clue what Celexa is either - do you know it`s medical name?
>
> If this is the case (that all meds are being discontinued), how do you feel about that? I`d be getting the screaming ab-dabs, that`s for sure. >
>
> Cheers,
>
> Anna (from Leeds, where the only bands ever to evolve from are `the Sisters of Mercy` , `the Mission`, and `Chumbawamba`. Not very exciting really).
Posted by sweetmarie on April 11, 2001, at 4:58:07
In reply to Re: HAS ANYONE ..., posted by Daveman on April 11, 2001, at 2:31:46
Dave,
>
> First, yes, the Celexa has completely rid me of my depression.Nice one. >
> Second, my docs say they will "consider" taking me off meds, but not until I am completely stabalized for at least 6-8 months and then only in consultation with me.
Be dead cautious here ... >
> Third, "Celexa" is Citaprolam, a member of the SSRI family (i.e., Prozac, Paxil, etc.) I'm told it is quite popular in Europe.
We definitely don`t have it here. >
> Dave from LA, home of The Beach Boys:) (At their age, shouldn't that be The Beach Men? Nah, doesn't have the same ring to it...)
`the Beach Men` ? - shouldn`t that be `the Old Beach Geezers`? (They must all be over 70 by now).
Anna
p.s. One more thing: did you have to go through many other medications to reach this combination? Just looking for some kind of reassurance, I suppose - I`ve been on so many, and I`m still looking.
This is the end of the thread.
Psycho-Babble Medication | Extras | FAQ
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.org
Script revised: February 4, 2008
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/cgi-bin/pb/mget.pl
Copyright 2006-17 Robert Hsiung.
Owned and operated by Dr. Bob LLC and not the University of Chicago.