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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 5 of 5. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Active Retiree on May 15, 2006, at 18:30:13
I have a non-epileptic movement disorder. These occasional episodes cause my muscles to tighten, fatigue, and after brief jerky movements, I'm OK. I do not lose consciousness, thus the diagnosis as non-epileptic seizure disorder.
Over 15 years ago I had a severe leg cramp/spasm that tore my calf muscle. During recovery and physical therapy, I was found to have very brisk reflexes. Movement or exercise would cause brief erratic movements in my neck, legs, and arms. Forget Pilates, that guarantees a seizure.
A few years ago, a more severe episode required hospitalization. My new neurologist, a movement disorder specialist, prescribed continuing Baclofen, and added an anti-seizure medication (Keppra) and Effexor. I asked, "Why Effexor, since the label said for depression." He said it would compliment the mood effects from the Keppra.
I have never had depression or anxiety. I am outgoing, gregarious and enjoy a leisurely retirement with family and friends. I am a very active person. After thoroughly reading the literature that came with my prescription, it's serious stuff that requires closer monitoring than a once a year check-in with my neurologist (and no lab tests).
Now side effects interfere with my daily activities. I need more info to have a better understanding of why it is appropriate for my condition. Or perhaps it is inappropriate and I should stop taking the medication (with doctor supervision)?
Posted by Colleen D. on May 15, 2006, at 20:31:27
In reply to Effexor XR, posted by Active Retiree on May 15, 2006, at 18:30:13
I'm not sure Effexor IS appropriate. Talk to your doctor and avoid taking it if you haven't had depression and/or anxiety problems. It's short half-life is a bugger. Find out what exactly he is trying to counteract.
Good question.
Posted by Bonnie_CA on May 15, 2006, at 22:24:12
In reply to Effexor XR, posted by Active Retiree on May 15, 2006, at 18:30:13
Definitely talk to another doctor about that, because you shouldn't be on anything for mood stuff unless you've actually exhibited a mood problem. Getting off of Effexor (I'm currently doing that now) is horrible. Definitely talk to your doctor about getting off of it. I am quitting it because of the side effects (but I'm also starting something else). You will probably be unhappy if you just stop taking it because the withdrawal is worse than the side effects. I hope you get it worked out. -Bonnie
Posted by Active Retiree on May 16, 2006, at 10:53:37
In reply to Re: Effexor XR » Active Retiree, posted by Bonnie_CA on May 15, 2006, at 22:24:12
Thank you for your input. I will be asking more questions of my doctor in upcoming appointments.
Posted by linkadge on May 17, 2006, at 16:38:36
In reply to Re: Effexor XR, posted by Active Retiree on May 16, 2006, at 10:53:37
Yeah, I would definately not take it unless you have a mood disorder. Its just not worth the risks. Some doctors are weird that way. They will prescribe depression meds based on very strange reasons.
Linkadge
This is the end of the thread.
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