Posted by Jackster on May 19, 2003, at 4:02:29
In reply to nortryptline affect on anxiety, posted by hildi on May 17, 2003, at 10:11:59
> I'm wanting to try another route than SSRI's for my anxiety and depression- I have read some good posts about nortryptline, but would that med cause even more anxeity? Also, I have read that the TCA's are bad for those who have bipolar tendencies. Does anyone have any comments or experience with this?
>
> I'm interested- never tried a TCA. I've always been on SSRI's and they all make me feel lousy in one way or another.
> Hildi
Hi HildiI've been on Paxil for years for panic disorder and a while ago it pooped out. One of the drugs my PDoc tried augmenting it with was Nortriptyline. The two interreact, so you only need a small dose of the nortrip to get the therapeutic window. I honestly think it increased my anxiety - despite me being on it for 8 weeks. I think it has to do with the strong NE uptake like you say. If that's the case - then technically Celexa or Paxil would be one of the better meds for you. (Being almost totally serotonin - I think). How long was your trial on these SSRI's - they do tend to be activating at the start - but the idea with panic or anxiety patients is start really low and go slow. There are even liquid forms of these meds to help with this.
Did you try an SSRI with a mood stabiliser? (Sorry I can't remember from your other post).
Anyway - good luck.
Jackie
poster:Jackster
thread:227219
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030514/msgs/227585.html