Switching medications

[Jess88]

Hi,

This is my first post, so I'm not really sure what to expect, but I feel like I need to get this out there. I'm hoping to connect with people who have been through something similar and might be able to share their experiences.

I've been on medications since I was 21, and I'm now 38. Over the years, whenever I've started feeling down again, my doctor would usually increase my dosages. It would help for a while, but after a few months, I'd find myself slipping back into that low place again.

Recently, I've noticed my mood getting worse, my anxiety increasing, and my anger issues starting to creep back in. I realised things weren't going well and that I wasn't feeling like myself anymore, so I decided to see my GP. I actually went to a different doctor this time, and after discussing everything, she suggested switching me from one medication to another. 

I was instructed to taper off, which I did over seven days, followed by three days without medication before starting the new medication. 

I ended up seeing another GP after my pharmacist suggested him, and he prescribed me something to help with the anxiety while continuing the new medication.

Initially, things seemed to improve a little, but after four or five hours, my anxiety would start spiking again, and I'd find myself feeling down. I went back to the GP, who increased my dose.

I'm now on day three of the increased dose, and if I'm being honest, I'm still struggling.

I feel numb and almost emotionless at times. It's difficult to explain, but some of these feelings remind me of how I was in my early twenties when I was first diagnosed with major depressive disorder and anxiety.

It's quite frightening to feel those old feelings returning after so many years, especially when I'm trying to get the help I need and find something that works.

I know it's still early days with the new medication, and I'm trying to be patient, but it's hard when you're feeling this way and just want to feel like yourself again.

I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced something similar and how to cope. Thank you for your time

[Pete66]

Each medication may or may not work for a person
One I tried gave me every side effect known, I had to stop taking it (it was not working), and two weeks for my body to recover.
Give yourself a chance, and then go back and talk with your GP

[Forever in Darkness]

Firstly, In no way am I replacing medical advice this is from my own lived experience and knowledge.

The effects of starting new medications is different for everyone, there are so many variables in the transition. A big one being the type of medication. Most mental health medications take time to work, thats the sad reality and understand how hard it is being stuck in that place of wanting to better. I acknowledge you are also holding onto the stress of feeling like u were in your 20's, that deserves alot of self compassion. Please take it day by day and check in with your gp by the 4th week mark. Lisa