Posted by TamaraJ on June 26, 2005, at 16:51:16
In reply to Re: Desimpramine vs Nortriptyline » TamaraJ, posted by SLS on June 25, 2005, at 0:35:34
> I find it unusual that an older psychiatrist should be so averse to using the older medications. Maybe he believes all of the hype surrounding the newer ones at the expense of all of the rest. Although it might not be time to try one, I hope he will not be adamant about not trying an MAOI. When I shop for a doctor, I use MAOIs as a litmus test. If they don't prescribe them, I don't bother seeing them. Actually, if they are unwilling to prescribe MAOI + TCA, I can't afford to see them. This combination, along with Lamictal, seems to be the only thing that helps. I can report, however, that for the past few days, adding Tileptal has given me a significant improvement for which I am very grateful. I am beginning to believe that this drug will be my magic pill when added to the others.
>
-- When I see him next week, I am going to raise MAOIs with him to see how he reacts and to see if, should the time arise when one would be the most viable option, whether he would be willing to prescribe one. I will also raise Lamictal with him to see what he thinks of it for a unipolar depressive with anxiety. This may sound crazy, but I think the change I am leaning towards is Wellbutrin (which I am on, and currently at 200mg) plus Zoloft. I have read that Zoloft is more activating than the other SSRIs, with the exception of Prozac I guess, and it is supposed to be good for panic and the fear of having another panic attack (which can lead to avoidant behaviours) as well as for obsessive thoughts. I did so well on Paxil that, perhaps, Zoloft may be the right med to combine with Wellbutrin, for me anyway. Nortriptyline hasn't been too bad, certainly better than Clomipramine which I couldn't even raise to a therapeutic dose because of the dizziness. But, it doesn't seem to touch the obsessive, fearful thoughts that seem to be entrenching avoidant behaviours in me. When I was on Paxil, I had been experiencing the same thing, and the Paxil took care of it.Anyway, thanks so much for taking the time to respond to my post. I really appreciate your sharing your knowledge and experience with me. And, I am so very happy that Tileptal is working well for you, and that you are seeing significant improvement. That is wonderful news. It must be very encouraging for you.
Take good care, Scott, and thanks again.
Tamara
poster:TamaraJ
thread:518211
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050622/msgs/519381.html