Posted by Racer on November 25, 2007, at 2:39:06
In reply to Racer, how is the Emsam trial?, posted by CoutureMan on November 25, 2007, at 2:20:55
So far, no increased anxiety, no stimulation -- although I was taking Wellbutrin XL and Concerta when I started, so decreased stimulation isn't so surprising to me -- but there is finally some sign that it might be helpful as an antidepressant. The worst problem I'm having is constipation -- which is a side effect I get from most antidepressants, and one of the reasons I liked my WB/stimulant combination.
Insomnia is a bit of an issue, but my doctor warned me about it, so I wasn't surprised. It does mean that I'm taking more Sonata than I'm comfortable with. My sleep schedule is messed up right now, which bothers me a lot, and it's another thing I'll be talking to him about next week. Some of that is situational, though -- I just don't go to bed, but since I nap in the afternoon, that's not so surprising. I then beat myself up for the behavioral portion of the problem, which as we all know helps no end with depression. I suspect the insomnia wouldn't be so bad if I avoided napping, or if I went to bed at a reasonable time. I mean to, but...
I have an anxiety disorder to go with the depression, and can tell you now that there's no additional anxiety on it for me. It might even be anxiolytic, but I've still got enough depressive symptoms going to mask that a bit. I'm not crying every day anymore, though, so that might be a good sign. Still can't tell you that I feel as though living is worthwhile, but it's not as pressing an issue, if that makes sense. My obsessiveness has jumped up, which has provided a distraction for me -- that does tend to distract me from depression, which is a mixed blessing.
So far, I can't tell if it's a winner or not. My doctor doesn't want to go above the 9mg patch, because he says that every time he has, increased agitation has led to reducing back to 9mg. I suspect he'll want to discuss adding something, which I guess I'm willing to try -- although I'm not terribly enthusiastic about Lamictal, which I've tried twice now. I may ask about trying Provigil again -- it was my good and trusted friend, and might help with the GI problem.
I'm willing to continue the trial, which is about all I can say right now. Thank you for asking about me.
poster:Racer
thread:796919
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20071115/msgs/796920.html