Discussing Anti Depressant Medications

[Doolhof]

Hi Everyone,

Firstly I would like to suggest that you have a read of "Discussing Medication" in the box at the top of the page on this site.

We are not allowed to mention the name of medications here but we can discuss the medications in general.

I am certainly not a medical professional at all, so don't take my word as being correct for all people all the time.

This is a place to share your concerns, thoughts and feelings towards anti depressant medications.

I'd like to start of my suggesting:

- Always talk to your Dr or person who is indicating anti depressants are advisable

-Ask the chemist for an information sheet relating to the medication. Don't be concerned by all the side effects that are listed, you may experience none of them! They are listed as a requirement I presume.

-If you have any concerns ask the Dr or the chemist

- Some medications may take a while to be effective. Discuss this with your Dr

- What works for one person may not work the same for you, it could be more effective or less helpful.

-Don't stop taking your medication without the Drs advice

- Try to take the medication at the same time each day or as required.

- Some people do not believe that medication is required, if your Dr has suggested it, I would follow their advice

- Medication is just one step to assisting yourself, exercise, a healthy diet, water, sleep and doing pleasant things each day helps as well.

This thread is open for anyone to make a comment or to share.

Some of you may be knew to the experience of taking anti depressants and may have all kinds of questions.

Once again I am certainly not an expert so what I have written are just suggestions.

Cheers to you all from Dools

[Guest_2496]

Yeah it’s a long way to go, Dools, make sure you get your money’s worth next time. Just remind yourself they are there to help you.

[Chick_in_a_guernsey]

Hi Dools n Geoff,

Thanks for your input. Granted, the reported possible side effects for any medication can seem daunting and I am aware that there's a level of backside covering from the pharmaceutical companies when they list everything.

There's another aspect to my concern over using meds. From a young age I saw my father using medication and also witnessed a number of instances where he was somewhalacking in self control.

He was a very depressed and disturbed individual and whilst my diagnosis of ptsd stems from very different circumstances I am also aware that genetics can play a part.

In later years I watched him self destruct to the point that he refused treatment for a straight forward condition and ultimately died as a result. I tried to intervene and be supportive along the way but that only brought more outrage and distrust from him.

So, with all things considered, whilst I don't have a great perception of meds, given today is day two, I'm trying to keep an open mind.

[Doolhof]

Hi annie,

Yes, you are right the Drs are there to help me, my mind just gets frazzled and mixed up at times, I have a panic attack and feel like I need to escape.

Hi Chick in a guernsey,

Have you expressed your concerns with your Dr regarding your Father and his very unfortunate experiences? I do agree with you, genetics can have an impact on how we react to medications, that is why open talks with the Dr are important.

It must have been very painful to see all that your Father experienced.

My Mother took a lot of medications. One of my siblings will not got to the Dr in-case they require medications, this person would rather suffer issues that could be assisted.

Mum has reactions to some medications and I seem to follow with similar side effects. My Dr has been able to use different types of medication to assist with medical problems. It can take a while to find the right medication. Once again, talking openly to the Dr helps.

Hope you have some positive results with the medication and can find other ways to help yourself as well.

Cheers from Dools

[Guest_2496]

I understand Dools. Had a panic attack last night and I just kind of go in circles round my bedroom like a chook!

[Chick_in_a_guernsey]

Well, I've been on my first lot of medication for about three weeks now. A few days where I feel it's taken the edge off a bit. My appetite is through the floor and I'm constantly tired. Sleep is woeful, but it was before the meds too.

Back to the GP in a week to look at raising the dose. Not sure one way or the other if it's of benefit, or will prove to be as time goes on.

Figured I owed it to myself, and family, to give it a go.

[geoff]

Hello Chick in a guernsey, I think you have to consider whether or not it 'has taken the edge off' and although I can't really say as I'm not qualified, but from experience, 3 weeks is a short time to be on this medication and you have to allow your system to get used to this drug.

Your appetite hopefully will improve and if your sleeping needs to be addressed then ask your doctor how they maybe able to help you.

Thanks for posting and please let us know how you are going and what's been decided.

My best.

Geoff.