Posted by Mark H. on January 14, 2002, at 16:21:34
In reply to Re: Please make a recommendation, posted by BLPBart on January 14, 2002, at 11:27:17
Scott,
You might want to ask your doctor if it would be appropriate for you to try:
1.) a stimulant. As unlikely as this sounds for someone with anxiety, some people have a reverse reaction to methylphenidate (generic Ritalin) and other stimulants; they find them calming. If your doctor thinks there are enough symptoms to suggest you might be ADHD, then I'd recommend you start with an extremely small dose -- break a tablet into fours and try 1/4 strength. Also, I'd suggest you take it only in the morning until you know how you'll react to it (to avoid insomnia). From talking to numerous people about this, most seem to know within a few days (or even immediately) whether it's going to help them or not. It's ironic that for many of us who most need a stimulant such as Ritalin, the potential for abuse is small -- first, when we have more natural alertness and energy, we tend to cut back dosage automatically; and, second, when we take too much, we go to sleep. Even though it is much less jarring than caffeine for those of us who need it, it is still a controlled substance (because of its abuse potential by "normals"), so your doctor may have to write you a special prescription and monitor your usage closely. For the patient's part, it's important to respect the fact that your doctor is trusting you with a controlled substance and not to abuse his or her trust by misusing it or allowing anyone else to use your medications (I'm sure you know this, but I like to add such things for those reading over our shoulders here).
2.) a beta-blocker. If your anxiety involves your body producing too much adrenaline, a carefully used beta-blocker can help blunt the effects. However, this too is heavy medicine -- too much and you can develop potentially dangerous arrhythmias, and even in very small amounts, over time your body adapts so that you have to withdraw very slowly if your doctor and you decide to discontinue it (otherwise, you may get serious hypertensive rebound).
Both of these adjunctives can also potentiate certain other medications, including some anti-depressants, which means being careful with your dosage of other meds. However, the up-side of this fact is that you may get a good effect from less anti-depressant medication than normal.
I'm basing my suggestions on my experience as a patient and only recommending that you discuss these possibilities with your doctor if you suffer from refractory depression. These aren't first-line treatments for anybody.
Best wishes,
Mark H.
poster:Mark H.
thread:90023
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020110/msgs/90107.html