Posted by Jackster on February 17, 2003, at 23:41:56
In reply to Re: Jackster - How are you doing? » Jackster, posted by ZeeZee on February 17, 2003, at 15:54:37
I don't think you're a whiney impatient brat at all! I know what it's like to start new drugs, to go through all the side effects for a minimum of 4-6 weeks - only to come to the conclusion that it's not the one that's going to work for you.
I honestly don't know if 10mg is enough to have the benefits of Paxil. You're probably at the worst now - enough of a dose to get side effects, but not enough to actually get the benefit. (But I'm certainly no doctor so please don't take this as gospel).
You may have tried to reduce the Xanax dose a little too early. I understand that you're worried about being addicted (I feel exactly the same) but you may still be getting the start up effects of the Paxil since you're titrating it slower than what's normally recommended. (Which is what people with panic disorder usually have to do anyway because we're more susceptable to the side effects). So when they say that the start up effects only last the first couple of weeks - this is usually related to starting on 10mg the first week and then 20mg from then on. (Again - I'm not a Dr! This is my theory).
Have you thought about taking klonopin during the day - instead of Xanax at night? I've tried both - I find that Xanax is good for one off panic situations - and that klonopin (which is longer acting) - is good for background constant anxiety. This may make it easier on you during the day? I've also found that I get a good night's sleep when I've taken it during the day. It's also not as addictive as Xanax - but not as fast working. (I find it takes about 3/4 hour to get working).
I think the insomnia with Paxil is a frequent side effect - my PDoc prescribed 10mg of amitriptyline at night to deal with that. It's a very small dosage tricylic that's quite sedating. I never had any problems sleeping after that.
As for the anorgasmia - alas most meds that could help with that - tend to increase anxiety. There are such things as 'drug holidays' (skipping for a couple of days to get the feeling back) - but it's probably to soon for that. I found that side effect wore off a little if it's any consolation.
I hope this rant helps! I'm hanging in there with you - it's looking like my med change is going to take about another 6 weeks minimum. My boyfriend and I got engaged last year - people keep asking when the wedding is - and there's no way I'm ready for one now! I don't really feel like telling them the truth why either. Another pressure I don't need!
Jackie : )
poster:Jackster
thread:200882
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030214/msgs/201333.html