Posted by k23d on September 19, 2002, at 23:10:07
Posted a while back on my treatment with paxil, disatisfaction with SE and what my thoughts were regarding future treatment. This is a quick follow up for those that are interested.
I've been generally socially anxious since as early age as I can remember and phobic (with panic) for about the past 12 years (27yo now). Realised what it was about 3 years ago.
I've done a group CBT approach for 9 mnths and still continue this on an ongoing basis one on one.
I got my first pdoc about 2 months ago when I wasn't happy with gp prescribed paxil and it's SE. Firstly the pdoc refused to ever consider treatment with BZD. He even didn't want me taking beta blockers for phobic situations given the psychological dependence...
He moved me to remeron 30mg at night and I gotta tell you that for the first month it was a miracle drug. I was socially outgoing, had no panic in phobic situations, had zero procrastination, was motivated and I slept well for the first time in years too.
SE were initially weight gain and high level of aggitation. I snapped at everything. But both of these went away after about 3 weeks.
For the past two weeks it has slowly lost effect on me and now only helps with a general level of sociability (Which is positive). However phobic situations have rebounded with a vengeance as has procrastination.
I've asked my gp to refer me to an anxiety specialist who isn't afraid of benzos. I'm going to give clonazepam twice daily (potentially together with the remeron at night) a try if someone will give it to me.
BTW, paxil worked a treat for me although some situations were still quite high anxiety whise. However the apathy, lack of orgasm, feeling drugged and the appetite of a bull were too much to cope with.
Anyway, there's my story to help anyone else who's on the boat. Comments appreciated re any other methods of success ppl have had.
K23d
poster:k23d
thread:120479
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020914/msgs/120479.html