SparkPoints: (86,243)
Fitness Minutes: (28,796)
Posts: 17,357
5/5/13 8:49 P

A number of medications have 'off the label' uses. You must remember where it comes to side-effects and whether it works for you is a very individual thing. What is one man's poison is another's savior.

Good luck,
Kris

current weight: 151.0

211 196 181 166

151

Posts: 2,037
5/5/13 8:27 P

ive actually read that wellbutrin is often prescribed to women who have problems, with age, or other issues, sexually.
this is one reason my doctor prescribed it for me. is this what you were referring to, if you dont wish to discuss it here message me and i will talk to you about what my doctor has discussed with me.

Posts: 2,037
5/5/13 8:22 P

i am getting ready to begin taking wellbutrin again, i was taking it but have been off it for a while now.
i really cant recall what taking it was like, side effects, interactions, how long it takes before i begin to see results, etc...
anyone have any advice or suggestions???
feel free to mail message me if you want to share your own advice or experiences with wellbutrin...
i have never been one for anxiety meds but am considering asking my doctor to prescribe a low dose of valium or klonopin as i have been having some anxiety lately.
i feel as though this gradual return of depression has alot to do with perimenopausal symptoms, i am 45 and still ovulating/menstrating but its becoming more erractic.

Posts: 1
4/13/13 11:24 A

I have been on wellbutrin (bupropian) for over a year. My dosage is 400 mg per day. I also take 100mg of zoloft at bedtime. the bupropian has never caused me to stay awake, or loose weight. It does not cause weight gain. the zoloft was added because the bupropian alone was not doing the trick. i also was on effexor. took it for years, then i started having almost constant headaches. my psychiatrist switched (weaned me off one and built up dosage on the other). headaches have pretty much disappeared.

SparkPoints: (86,243)
Fitness Minutes: (28,796)
Posts: 17,357
3/27/13 9:55 P

My hubby took Effexor XR for OCD and that worked really well, and he had no side-effects. I hope that you find or have found what you were looking for.

Kris

current weight: 151.0

211 196 181 166

151

Posts: 54
3/17/13 4:29 P

Hi! I'm having trouble finding people who have taken either vistaril or luvox cr. I've been on zoloft, buspar, celexa, and lexapro. (all in the last year...) Lexapro was my favorite and the first that *really* worked for depression, but I have compulsive behaviors on top of depression/anxiety disorder, so my pdoc was thinking luvox cr would be helpful. (Vistaril is to help with anxiety and sleeping)

I would love to hear from people who have had experience with either of these drugs. I know from my own experience that each person responds to drugs differently! But it would still be interesting to hear from others, especially if anyone out there has had diminished compulsive tendencies with luvox cr. :)

(It's been 3 weeks and while I still feel fine, as i did on lexapro, my compulsions have not abated)

Thanks!

SparkPoints: (811)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 11
3/16/13 2:36 P

I have a website on depression and anxiety. As I was looking thru other articles to post, I came across the medication that my psychologist has RX for me.
Interesting:

"Zoloft depression is actually in no way addicting unlike other medication and it is not in any way, can be associated with weight gain"

"Side effects of this RX- Zoloft depression such as: diarrhea, nausea, sleepiness/insomnia, dry mouth and sexual side effects. Although according to studies, a lot of people actually didn’t care about the side effects and still opted to continue on taking Zoloft depression."

Okay so I know why I have not been able to lose weight so easily...

SparkPoints: (86,243)
Fitness Minutes: (28,796)
Posts: 17,357
3/14/13 9:31 P

I have memory issues as a result of an accident, which is also the bulk of the cause of my depression. Because the of lack of memory, I started to keep a diary of when I had taken the med, or any other, especially pain relief, so I didn't over-dose accidentally. Anyway, I kept losing the notes - couldn't remember where I had put them - LOL! I ended up traying my meds up on a weekly basis, and putting them where I go to every morning. This works really well, and I now hardly ever forget. I do the same with my Flixotide Inhaler for the same reason - without it, and my asthma ends up coming back :-(

Kris

current weight: 151.0

211 196 181 166

151

Posts: 25
3/14/13 9:23 P

Hi, my name is Keith. I am new to this group. I am glad you have a topic dealing with medications. I have had Depression and panic disorder for as long as I can remember and I am 52. I have been taking meds for about 25 years. I have an identical twin who has exactly the same problem and on the same exact med. We even have the same doctor. I just wanted to say that my problem unlike my brother is that I am very bad about taking my medications and I am nurse. Nurses are the worst. I pay everytime when I don't take them. For example, I have not taken my paxil in about 3 days and today I didn't get out of bed until about 8pm. My depression is bad and makes keeping a job very difficult. I am looking for a job now. This is the same old pattern. I am trying to do a lot of things while I am off like clean and Lose weight. But it I don't take paxil I seem to fall back into wanting to stay in bed all day. Well, I finally took my meds and we will hope for better tomorrow. The other med my doctor gave about a year about is Wellbutrin. Works very well but can keep me up for days so I rarely ever take. Well, I thought I introduce myself...sorry about the rant. Hopefully telling you all this will remind me to take my paxil. Thanks. Keith

SparkPoints: (86,243)
Fitness Minutes: (28,796)
Posts: 17,357
3/13/13 4:13 A

I'm glad that you have something that works well for you :-)

Kris

current weight: 151.0

211 196 181 166

151

SparkPoints: (1,103)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 14
3/13/13 3:05 A

I have been on Pristiq for several years now since Prozac abruptly stopped working for me and I tried a million meds before this one. I did initially have some weight gain, but I keep to a healthy diet and sensible portions and have able to lose weight at about 2 lbs. a week. It's an expensive med and the closest one with a generic version is Effexor, but I couldn't tolerate it. I had stomach aches for several weeks on Effexor and gave up and went back on Pristiq.

SparkPoints: (7,368)
Fitness Minutes: (4,995)
Posts: 32
2/25/13 4:02 A

For folks asking about combining drugs: I did a brief stint on Welbutrin + Prozac in an attempt to deal with a longstanding issue re: lack of energy--absolutely DID NOT work for me. No change in mood/energy, and the Wellbutrin gave me hand tremors. But, as other posters have said, your milege may vary--consult a medical professional!

I did want to share my most recent catastrophe in the hopes that it will inspire others not to be an idiot like I was: If you are on meds, DO NOT GO OFF THEM COLD TURKEY! I have no insurance and very little income right now, so I figured I could get low on the meds as I wait out a chance to go to a sliding scale clinic--HORRIBLE IDEA! The withdrawal was horrendous--all the symptoms that originally put me on drugs in the first place + insomnia + anxiety + difficulty focusing + all-around severe crumminess.

If you are currently on a prescription medication, PLEASE make an effort to talk to your prescriber before attempting to go off your meds. If money is an issue, find a way around it STAT (get on that clinic waiting list LONG before you're actually low on meds!). Your health is incredibly important in this regard, and it's SO EASY to convince yourself that it's "all in your head" and "you can just suck it up" even if you've been dealing with depression for most of your life (*cough*me*cough*). Please don't be a dope like me and take care of yourselves!

SparkPoints: (86,243)
Fitness Minutes: (28,796)
Posts: 17,357
2/16/13 2:15 A

Everyone is different where it comes to how meds react to and for us, so you can't really go by how we have reacted to them. Generally when I person it gaining weight on a p.med, we really need to be VERY vigilant with what and how much we eat. If you find that hunger is a problem, then load up on lower calorie foods as snacks. Also, ensure that you are getting exercise.

Below is a link that MAY be helpful:
www.mayoclinic.com/health/antidepressants/
MH00062

I would strongly suggest that if you ARE eating in a healthy, balanced way, and within your calorie range, then you talk with your prescribing Dr (Psychiatrist?) about it. Be guided by him/her - that is their area of expertise!

Good luck,
Kris

current weight: 151.0

211 196 181 166

151

Posts: 3
2/15/13 7:03 P

I am on abilify also, but have gained 35 lbs. since being on it- a year on abilify. would anyone suggest getting off of the abilify and getting on a different med like pristiq. does anyone know if pristiq helps w/ losing or not gaining weight?? I really need to lose this weight really badly and its not helping my depression at all!!!

SparkPoints: (1,097)
Fitness Minutes: (580)
Posts: 23
2/15/13 2:46 P

My son took Vyvanse for ADD and although it helped him focus, it made him crabby and not very social, Luckily he went off it and is still doing well in school, he even said he noticed that it made him "mean". He is much more social now with his friends, I am so pleased because he is 17 and should be having fun at this time in his life. Anyway, I hope this helps.

SparkPoints: (86,243)
Fitness Minutes: (28,796)
Posts: 17,357
2/6/13 3:21 P

Yes, there are people who do this, but it is your Dr who will decide what is needed regarding your meds, based on what you tell him/her and what he/she can observe. I would be inclined to make an appointment you Dr for a medication review.

Good luck, and let us know how you get on!
Kris

current weight: 151.0

211 196 181 166

151

SparkPoints: (6,309)
Fitness Minutes: (10,753)
Posts: 39
2/6/13 10:50 A

I haven't posted on this topic before, but was wondering if anyone is taking anything along with wellbutrin? I'm only taking 75 mg a day, but it's not quite doing the job. If I up it to 150 I get aggitated and anxious. but on the 75, I'm still a little depressed and crying in the middle of the day.

I was on effexor before I started the wellbutrin and had terrible headaches and another side effect that didn't sit well with my husband.

SparkPoints: (29)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 2
2/2/13 1:16 P

Chloe-N-Me, that's why the doctor change. I am taking a number of granules out every day. The number stays the same for a week. I WILL get off this medication!!!

Edited by: RACINGREDGRANNY at: 2/2/2013 (13:17)

SparkPoints: (2,385)
Fitness Minutes: (1,485)
Posts: 44
2/2/13 11:30 A

I have been on Cytalopram 20mg a day for years now. Tried to get off when got pregnant, but that sure did not work out. Thankfully, pregnancy went well and I have a healthy 4 year old now. I have been on Welbutrin and Lexapro before, but this one seems to be the best for me. I made the mistake of getting off my meds cold turkey a couple of times. I will never do it again. It still amazes me how some people think depression is all "in your head" and you can just get rid of it if you pray, stay positive and whatever. NEVER listen to those people! Stay safe and happy!

Posts: 520
2/1/13 5:27 P

go slow off meds..
:(
I did this with xanax and almost died.

Posts: 62
1/28/13 9:53 P

RACINGREDGRANNY I cant believe anyone let you go cold turkey coming off Effexor that was at the very least negligent. Everytime I changed meds there has always been a weaning off period. I agree with you never quit meds quickly and question it if you are told too.

SparkPoints: (12,483)
Fitness Minutes: (5,483)
Posts: 246
1/28/13 6:03 P

I was on 40 mg of Prozac per day and now I'm on 20 mg of Celexa per day... I haven't started the celexa yet...

current weight: 205.9

223 208.5 194 179.5

165

SparkPoints: (29)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 2
1/25/13 12:40 P

I have been on Effexor for about a year. I had a very bad incident last summer when a doctor decided I should come off it 2 months after starting. He just stopped prescribing it; I had a terrible time. I couldn't sleep for four nights. I had stomach cramps and the runs. I didn't know what to do with my body and I was very restless. I was hot and cold at the same time. I ended up wishing I would just die. Then I had a seizure. I was afraid that was from epilepsy although I hadn't had an epileptic seizure in over 15 years. My husband took me to ER and I was advised to go back to my doctor. When I did go I was told to "suck it up". I then changed doctors and he said I should not be cut off like that. He put me back on the effexor and I am now taking granuals out of the pills. I started with 5 for a week, then progessed with 5 more each week. I am now at 35 granuals this week and I am not finding any withdrawal symptoms. PLEASE, if any of you need or want to stop this medication, do it very, very slowly. I have researched and now find a lot of people saying to do it the way I am doing it. Effexor is a great medication but highly addictive and hard to stop taking it.

Posts: 62
1/24/13 5:44 P

Thanks thats something I will look into.

SparkPoints: (26,226)
Fitness Minutes: (19,697)
Posts: 983
1/24/13 5:23 P

I'm on Abilify and Cymbalta too Chloe. 60mg of cymbalta, 10 of abilify. It helps. I also take Deplin which you don't need a prescription for.

Posts: 62
1/23/13 5:55 P

i am currently on Cymbalta and Abilify and they have worked great as a duo but dealing with the blahs more of late Wondering which drug needs to be increased. In the past I have been on Effexor , Pristiq and Wellbutrin

Posts: 156
1/16/13 12:40 P

I take Efferox XR 75 mg twice a day - I have been at this dosage for about 3 months . It seemed to be helping with the occasion Xanax for anxiety but I am feeling the "blahs" again lately. Not the crying jags that I had but just those "wow - why bother" moments. I'm wondering if I need to talk to my doctor about changing my meds or maybe adding something. I tokk Paxil several years ago and it did nothing for me.

Posts: 104
1/15/13 10:54 P

Has anyone taken Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Pristiq? Wellbutrin alone just isn't cutting it any more. I have taken a Wellbutrin and Cymbalta combo in the past and it worked well except for one annoying side effect (involving urination issues). The fear I have with that combo is the issues I had when I had to go off of the Cymbalta due to lack of insurance coverage.

Thanks for any insight offered!

current weight: 184.2

190 177.5 165 152.5

140

SparkPoints: (459)
Fitness Minutes: (62)
Posts: 3
1/12/13 11:17 P

I hate to be a copycat, but I was recently (~6 months ago) put on Bupropion and it seems to be working like gangbusters. I had previously been on Prozac and Paxil (seperately not together). Neither of those seemed to get the job done. The Paxil seemed to help quite a bit with my depressive episodes, but did absolutely nothing for my dysthymia. But the Bupropion coupled with regular therapy has me feeling better consistently more than I can remember feeling in a very long time.

SparkPoints: (11,275)
Fitness Minutes: (11,861)
Posts: 59
1/9/13 4:50 P

My doc just started me back on Wellbutrin (SR 150) again. I haven't taken anything since August '11 because I got pregnant, but it was time to start back on it. Holy cow, I can feel the difference! I didn't realize how bad it had gotten. I've taken Celexa in the past, but bupropion works very well for me.

Pounds lost: 30.0

0 26.25 52.5 78.75

105

SparkPoints: (44,694)
Fitness Minutes: (30,242)
Posts: 606
1/5/13 9:23 A

I currently on Effexor 2x a day because my metablisim doesn't allow me to take it 1x a day even at extended release. after about 15 hours I'm going through withdrawl. So I have to take some in the evening and some at night. I'm on the max dose, I also take Trazadone at first it was for sleep only but now it's also an anti depressent. If that doesn't work, we're going to add Welbutun. We've also had to add a SAD light because I'm suffering from SAD bad this year. I only just got the light this week so I don't know exactly if it's helping.

Edited by: PHANTOMSMASK171 at: 1/5/2013 (09:27)

Pounds lost: 0.0

0 17.775 35.55 53.325

71.1

SparkPoints: (3,124)
Fitness Minutes: (948)
Posts: 171
1/4/13 12:44 A

I'm new here and I'm taken 10mg Lexapro. It seems to help. I stop taking them here while back but now I'm back on them.

SparkPoints: (8,983)
Fitness Minutes: (5,298)
Posts: 34
11/26/12 9:22 P

I'm new to the group, was looking at subject and found this thread.

I've always thought Wellbutrin was my "miracle drug." I took it for 3 years, when it was no longer effective I stopped, instead of going to the Doctor. Big mistake, but that is another story for another time.

I've been on it again now for over two years, Wellbutrin XL 300mg. The key for me is to take it at the exact same time each day. I can actually "feel" it when I've delayed taking it. Xanax, .5 mg, 4 times a day. I have tried to reduce that dosage, I just can't. My heart races, my jaw locks and feel panicky.

When reading through this thread I was surprised to see the number of folks on Wellbutrin. Usually I hear Zoloft, Effexor, Paxil, etc. Never worked for me.

Posts: 105
11/24/12 1:24 P

Hi,

I've been on Paxil 10MG since Jan 2012. I took Zoloft 25MG for several years and was told that women do not like Zoloft. They like Paxil better. Since Jan 2012 until now I've been taking it @ night before I go to bed. I read that it's ok to take it in the morning instead. So I'm taking it when I get up in the morning. It seems to help. I wish I could not take anything at all. I would like to wean myself off all of it.

Erin - ev1959

current weight: 135.0

140 137.5 135 132.5

130

Posts: 81
11/22/12 11:14 P

It's been a good week so far on my Citalopram 20mg. I've felt my moods even out and although the problems like (bills ugh) aren't gone but I am better able to deal with them. The pit that in my stomach is gone. The only side effects that I've experienced so far are constipation, loss of appetite, and a lessening of my sex drive (although I was experiencing hypersexuality so it's a good thing). My boyfriend notices the change and things are much less tense around here.

Posts: 19
11/16/12 12:19 P

You posted this about a month ago, so I don't know if you have gotten any answers to your questions yet - but anyway, I was on Klonopin and Abilify before (btw, the Abilify made me gain a ton of weight!!!). So my doctor weaned me off of it. I also weaned off the Klonopin a few months ago. With most medications, you have to be weaned off, but if you are patient and do it slowly, it shouldn't be that bad! I have been on either Klonopin (either that or Xanax) for the past 8 years, so I am still having acute withdrawals, and my doctor said that can last up to 6 months!!! It sucks, but it isn't anywhere near as bad as it was the first month - I could not sleep for more than 3 hours a night and my panic attacks increased. I am currently only taking Wellbutrin and Buspar for anxiety. The Buspar does not work as well, but it has only been 2 weeks. Plus my doctor said nothing will work like the benzos =( but that in the long run it'll be more effective. hope that helped a bit!

current weight: 153.0

159 153 147 141

135

Posts: 131
11/16/12 4:25 A

It's really late where I am, and I'm about to go to bed, but from what I've read about ADHD, it expresses itself differently in women than men. So female ADHDers wouldn't necessarily be bouncing off the walls like many males do when they have it. Note: it took my therapist and psych a LOT of months to convince me that I have it, and should at least *try* a medication for it. The first one, whoa, bad reaction (I started freaking out about my hands and had to walk around the block to calm down). This stuff just made me go ZING! and the first day I took it the smallest movement made me sweat!

I hope the Celexa helps you out. I know your doc is probably being conservative with the 20 mg, but like my experiences have told me and perplexed my psych---everyone has different responses to medications.

Edited by: JAVAMONSTER at: 11/16/2012 (04:25)

Posts: 81
11/15/12 10:56 P

Hi Java :)
Thanks for responding. He was off his meds for about a week or two and is now getting back on them. I'm told the irritability will get better soon.

I've tried those(like once) and as someone who has had trouble focusing, completing things, keeping a job, not being able to do things I enjoy....I have to say that I understand why people want this particular med. For a few hours last night, my mind stopped racing and I was able to actually do more than just aimlessly surf the internet. I was able to watch a movie without getting up five or six times because I got restless. He said since I didn't need it I would be bouncing off the walls but instead it just helped me focus....I felt...motivated to do things. I mean I do the house work and work like a beast at work when I'm there so those things aren't a problem but it's strange.

Today I had an appointment with my Dr. to talk about my depression and I mentioned what had happened. She's putting me on 20mg of Celexa to start with so hopefully that will help with the depression. I'm hoping that it helps with my focus and the racing thoughts although I'm told is can take about a month or so to kick in. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Ideally, I'd like to be able to go to a psychiatrist but unfortunately I can only see my regular doctor. I've been doing some research and have symptoms of depression (possible bipolar), anxiety, and ADD(HD)-although people aren't likely to buy that since I don't necessarily bounce off the walls and don't have the forgetfulness that accompanies the typical ADD(HD) idea that many people have.

The strange thing is that I know people just like me that are smart, well-accomplished but also have ADD(HD) although you would never know it. So that's that. Here's hoping the Celexa works.

Edited by: SPIRALJOURNEY at: 11/16/2012 (07:58)

Posts: 131
11/13/12 8:59 P

Hi GNEEKLY, I'm taking Vyvance 30mg a day, but not Wellbutrin. If you've read up on Vyvance, it's an amphetamine. It's like drinking several cups of coffee without getting the jitters. At least at my dosage. It might be contributing to his irritability, but then, his other med might be doing that, too. If he's only recently gotten on the Vyvance, it'll probably take him at least three weeks to acclimate to it.

If he's disturbed by emotional numbness, he should ask his doc about it; as I understand it, an effective dosage of whatever shouldn't numb you, but just calm the worst part of what he's suffering from, whether it's anxiety, depression, or a combo of those. Your boyfriend might be acclimating, as I said, getting used to the stuff in his system, or his dosage needs fine-tuning. But that's for him & the doc to figure out.

SparkPoints: (8,593)
Fitness Minutes: (7,617)
Posts: 6
11/11/12 2:26 P

A few years back I was on Paxil and Effexor. When I stopped taking them, I lost 30 pounds within six months without even trying. The weight slowly crept back up, at about five pounds a year. Now I am on Remeron and put on about 15 pounds within the first couple of months. I'm counting every calorie; if I don't, I will pretty much inhale everything in sight. It feels like I'm always hungry. And the Remeron causes some digestive distress for me as well.

That being said, otherwise I think the drug is a miracle pill. I can sleep at night. I have energy. And I am slowly regaining my sense of fun.

SparkPoints: (5,241)
Fitness Minutes: (469)
Posts: 4
11/5/12 6:35 P

I have been on about a zillion different psychiatric meds over the year (ok. that's an exaggeration. haha). One of the newer ones I've been on has definitely been causing weight gain. It's called Fanapt and it's been giving me an increase in appetite and also a little sluggishness. The side effects seem to be tapering off, but yeah. That's def. one reason I could use support!

Posts: 283,699
11/3/12 2:32 P

I have been starving for the last two days. I am thankful there are no jelly beans in the house. Here today gone tomarrow. Read of the back of a package how many calories they contain. If they are loose when bought, still go to a store and look at calories. It will be close to what you are eating.We only have to worry about Thanksgiving and Christmas....only have to worry about---yeah right!

Edited by: NANCYRUBIO at: 11/3/2012 (14:33)

Pounds lost: 24.0

0 12.5 25 37.5

50

SparkPoints: (438)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 28
11/1/12 5:28 P

Dear Loyal Heart,
Thanks so much for your response! I was hoping lower doses of my meds would help. Darn... I will discuss Topamax with my doctor after I research it on the web.

My problem is jelly beans. I never ate a jelly bean in fifty some years and now I crave them. My doctor told me I would crave sweet carbs for a month and then the craving would lift. It has been almost three weeks now and I have gained five pounds already. I am so sad :(
The rest of the time - when I'm NOT eating jelly beans ;) - I chew endless bowls of salad. I eat salad for lunch and dinner and oatmeal for breakfast with some fruits, and maybe a smoothie. I am under my caloric allowance each day but for the jelly beans. My friend told me they were 4 calories a bean. ugh!
I am trying to eat grapes and baby carrots and drink lots of water. I have osteoarthritis so exercise is a must but hurts.
I am not into pain.
WAH!

SparkPoints: (5,223)
Fitness Minutes: (4,591)
Posts: 65
11/1/12 2:48 A

Hey ZAHAROULA1. The worst part about that class of drugs is weight gain. It's definitely the reason why I am on this site. I can also tell you I take the lowest amount of everything and it didn't matter. I still put on over 100+lbs from the drugs. Now my psych actually referred me to a family physician to handle the weight gain and we use Topamax to manage that symptom. Works out really well for me since Topamax in higher doses is also prescribed for depression (amongst other things). Plus of course changing my habits including tracking my food to the tee and adding exercise everyday kick started my weight loss journey. My point is look for another alternative than scaling back your medication and use the health care resources around you whenever possible. Your psych might suggest another medication or; refer to you to someone who handles weight loss cases or; a local group for nutrition and fitness guidance. Honestly I just start asking questions and that usually gets me what I need from my health care providers. I hope that helps!

SparkPoints: (4,054)
Fitness Minutes: (714)
Posts: 436
10/31/12 12:11 A

Hi DDesertdawm. I have been taking Cymbalta for depression for several years. It has worked great, but now that things seem to be getting better for me my doctor is trying to get me off of it and onto another similar medication because we both think that Cymbalta may be the cause of some of my weight gain.

Posts: 81
10/29/12 12:27 A

I am not on any medication but my boyfriend is and I have some questions for anyone who has had experience with Vyvanse and Wellbutrin. My question is this: is is common to experience emotional numbness and irritability? If so, how does one cope?

Posts: 283,699
10/20/12 9:32 A

I have scaled back on my two medications but no weight loss. I do not take what you take but of yours seems to be very low. Talk to your doctor first before you do anything, We are not experts.

Pounds lost: 24.0

0 12.5 25 37.5

50

SparkPoints: (438)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 28
10/19/12 10:33 P

My psychiatrist has me on 20 mg of Abilify (plus 60 mg of Celexa and 15 mg of Remarin as well as 1 mg of Klonopin) I looked up all of these on the'net and read the side-effects. Now my nurse practioner tells me that Abilify slows down your metabolism so that you gain weight just breathing. Actually she told me that all of the drugs the doctor gave me facilitate weight gain. I wonder if I can do with smaller doses of everything...
Just wondering out loud.
I wonder if anyone here has scaled down their dosage, with their doctor's orders of course, and what it does when we scale down. Is it like quitting smoking or heavy drugs? Not that I have had problems like that but I've heard it can be difficult. Of course my doctor can help me on this one, but there is nothing like hearing from others who have been down the same path.

Posts: 283,699
10/12/12 12:14 P

I have never taken Cymbalta, nor has it ever be recomended to me.

Pounds lost: 24.0

0 12.5 25 37.5

50

SparkPoints: (9,103)
Fitness Minutes: (4,013)
Posts: 18
10/12/12 8:24 A

I've had issues with depression pretty much since I was a kid and have only just recently (the last 5 years or so) gave in to being on meds. The cocktail that is working for me right now is Wellbutrin XL 450mg, Cymbalta 40mg, and Abilify 2mg. I don't know if my increased Wellbutrin dose did it, or if joining SP did it, but in the last month I've completely overhauled my life, diet, fitness routine, etc and am feeling much better in every way possible (mentally, physically, etc). Still have my down days, of course.

What questions do you have about Cymbalta? Actually if anyone has questions about the drugs I'm on feel free to ask!

Hope everyone has a great day!

Posts: 131
9/24/12 3:13 P

Hi DesertDawn,
I don't "work with" Cymbalta, but I'm taking it now for anxiety, OCD and yes, some depression. What did you want to know about it? If I can help, that is.

SparkPoints: (86,243)
Fitness Minutes: (28,796)
Posts: 17,357
9/16/12 4:56 A

Don't worry about popping in just for meds. They will be well used to that, and really, where it comes to the meds, it is the best way to go. If there are any hiccups along the way, they are better qualified to deal with them.

Let us know how you get on, on Friday!

Kris

current weight: 151.0

211 196 181 166

151

SparkPoints: (22,812)
Fitness Minutes: (20,505)
Posts: 596
9/16/12 3:56 A

I've started Lyrica again for Fibro and it has helped to bring me up a bit. Psych appointment not scheduled for over month after requested. Finally see Friday. I sure hope she is as good as the referring Dr said. I just don't like to pop in for medications and nothing else. Will see what happens.

...
Frustration-- I have an incredible health insurance plan== no referrels needed for most specialists. But preapproval from the group is needed for anything psych. Ridiculous! IMHO.

Anybody worked with Cymbalta?

SparkPoints: (86,243)
Fitness Minutes: (28,796)
Posts: 17,357
8/31/12 8:55 P

Welcome to the new thread for Medication posts. Feel free to post your questions/comments here :-)

Kris

current weight: 151.0

211 196 181 166

151