Posted by SLS on July 13, 2003, at 14:42:01
In reply to Re: Strattera for depression without ADD? » SLS, posted by zeugma on July 11, 2003, at 9:45:05
> Parnate and desipramine seems like it would be a very activating combination.It was very activating the first time I tried it. Of course, my system was closer to being in a virginal state than it is now. At the time, I had total insomnia and needed to take Ativan and Halcion for sleep. My REM was probably 100% suppressed, as I didn't dream at all. Unfortunately, this combination does not now affect the quality nor duration of sleep, and I dream all of the time. I believe this gives evidence as to how my nervous system has been changed by repeated exposure to various drugs and why so many drugs are no longer helpful to me.
> Do you find Strattera activating (specifically in comparison to a TCA?)
When I first started Strattera, it reminded me of how I feel whenever I begin a tricyclic. It is sort of like being slightly activated and sleepy at the same time. What I find encouraging is that the Strattera had this effect on me despite my already being on imipramine 300mg. Maybe it is doing more of what I need from the tricyclics. Who knows? You can't blame a guy for hoping.
> Depression for me becomes a trance-like or dream-like state where I feel like my mind and senses become 'deactivated.'
Ditto.
> By the way, the Strattera script information contraindicates MAOI's strongly. But I assume it would be safe since Strattera is pharmacologically similar to a secondary amine TCA.
That's what I was thinking. As far as combining medications is concerned, I have had less trouble with side effects when using Parnate rather than Nardil in combination with tricyclics. With Parnate, I can use imipramine, desipramine, and nortriptyline without sequalae. However, combining imipramine or nortriptyline with Nardil produces serotonin syndrome, severe hypotension, and the inability to initiate urination. I have managed to combine successfully Nardil and desipramine, although I still have trouble with hypotension and urination.
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:240653
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030708/msgs/241472.html