Posted by wendy b. on November 20, 2002, at 22:00:47
In reply to Re: Should my child even start Effexor XR, posted by Bill L on November 20, 2002, at 12:46:49
Dear mld,
I agree with Bill, and with Dinah's post after that. Therapy is great, but remember what they say: therapy + meds is the most efficacious way to get a grip on depression. 16 is not too young, and the medication will probably help a lot. Again, please follow the advice of the others here about the Effexor: it is one of the most difficult to use effectively, and usually it's tried after others in the SSRI category have failed. Be candid with your doctor. Zoloft (low dose, 50 mg to start) is pretty gentle. I'd rather risk a couple minor side effects (dry mouth esp.), than my son's overall well-being. It must have been a trial for you these past couple years, and I hope if you have any other questions or need any other kind of help, to remember to post here. The denizens of this site are very empathetic and helpful, and we've all experienced the meds run-around. Which reminds me, if the first med doesn't work, there are many more to try. It's usually a matter of finding the right fit for each individual, and it may take some tweaking. So, don't get discouraged...
With all the best wishes for you and your son,
Wendy
> I'm really sorry to hear about the loss of your son. And I know haw hard of a decision that you now have deciding about medications for your other child.
>
> I believe that it's unusual to prescribe Effexor as a first antidepressant. Usually, a doctor will first try an SSRI such as Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, or Lexapro.
>
> If your child seems to be depressed, I would advise you to put him/her on a prescription antidepressant. Fish oil is not the answer in this situation. Ask the doctor about starting your child on an SSRI. Don't let him/her continue to be depressed.
poster:wendy b.
thread:128276
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021116/msgs/128554.html